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Blog created by TRENT LANGDON

TRENT LANGDON M.Ed, C.C.C.

TRENT LANGDON   M.Ed, C.C.C.
Educator / School Counsellor / Vice-President of the Newfoundland & Labrador Teachers Association (NLTA) / Speaker from Newfoundland & Labrador, CANADA

Baxter Langdon

Baxter Langdon
Dedicated to my grandfather; small in stature but stood tall with integrity...

Sunday 12 November 2017

Joltin' Joe Brings It Every Day...


Joe Dimaggio, the epitome of ‘coolness’ in the 30’s and 40’s; not only a professional baseball player and Yankee slugger (no less), but married to Marilyn Monroe! Holy moly, can you have a higher profile career and relationship built into one package? It was an era that saw movie stars and sports figures become ‘larger-than-life’ and evolve into heroes of the ‘super’ kind. There were fewer of them (as compared to this day in age) and their names were synonymous with greatness during a time when people needed escape and a reason to dream.

One can easily imagine that this immense social stature could (and would) result in an inherent disregard for the ‘common folk’ and a loss of perspective. The bright lights, swarms of fans, and relentless media coverage could have forced him into self-preservation mode and built an egocentricity that was as impenetrable as his heart. However, Joe seemed to remain cool under pressure, rarely missing an opportunity to impress, and taking the time to connect with his followers (not in the Facebook sense).

One of Joe’s famous (and most mortal) quotes often sticks with me and can be a mantra for any leader who seeks excellence while maintaining a deep sense of humility - “I played my best everyday; You never know when someone may be seeing you for the first time.” This is a message that, as educators, we can entrench within our students as they approach the challenges of each day, build the skill set necessary for post-secondary options, and enter the unforgiving workforce. It can also become the foundation and standard for our own professional practice. 

In a world where a sense of entitlement has seemingly emerged as a widespread character trait of many students, this motivational mindset has great power and potential. As much as I strongly believe that one should live according to their own individual purpose, holding true to themselves, we cannot underestimate the importance of interpersonal influence. And as educational leaders, working with students and their families requires that we come to the field ‘ready to play’. 

Joe saw the power of strong and positive ‘first impressions’. This was one of his ‘non-negotiables’ as it related to his character and his work ethic. The first impression he made on all his fans became lasting impressions (time after time) that continue to endure the test of time.

Do you ‘bring it’ everyday?

Friday 2 June 2017

Lessons I have learned from Super Grover!

As a young kid and now well into my adult years, I have held on to a fond admiration for my scrawny, furry, super hero of a buddy...Super Grover. Little did I know that within this lovable character was a wealth of life lessons and character-building strategies.

I can fondly recall:
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Narrator: “Presenting the adventures of everyone’s favorite hero, the monster who is faster than lightening, stronger than steel, smarter than a speeding bullet...it’s Super Grover!”

(cue music)

SG: “And I am cute, too!” (as he breaks through the paper wall)

Narrator:” And now on to our story.”

SG: “ Yes, on to our story!”

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Lessons Learned...

A. Half the battle is securing your se lf-concept such that you can maintain that competitive edge. SG never did struggle with this one...

B. Give that extra effort, each and every day, in spite of the situation. You will be appreciated and valued for it.

C. Comb your fur and look the part. We cannot underestimate the value of our professional presentation to those you hope to serve.  

D. Pick yourself up and dust yourself off (literally in SG’s case) despite what has transpired. Have the ability and willingness to move on, such that a significant setback does not ‘derail the train’, so to speak.

E. Do not take yourself too seriously. A quick look in the mirror can help reset the humility button. 

F. Accept all challenges with passion and vigor (you have the freedom to vary the intensity as necessary).

G. Realize that, sometimes, others do know best and may be able to do better!

H.  Caring & compassion should be at the heart of all adventures.

I. Persistence pays (maybe not at first), but it always pays.

And...Always wear your helmet!


SG: “Super Grover has again, SAVED THEE DAY!”