In education, one of the most powerful lessons we can teach is the value of making positive changes. Guiding students to reflect on who they are today and consider who they want to become can help them make choices that shape a brighter future. Over the years, many young people have made remarkable transformations—some tackling life-altering shifts, like distancing themselves from negative influences, while others focus on smaller adjustments, such as engaging more positively in class or treating others with respect. No matter the size, each choice contributes to their personal growth and self-understanding.
Encouraging students to “be the change” starts with helping them reflect on their own habits, attitudes, and behaviours. Students who understand where they are today can better identify the areas where they want to grow. Some students may be ready for significant changes, while others might start with small steps, such as showing kindness to a peer, making an effort to focus in class, or spending more time on their goals and less time on distractions. Each of these choices lays the foundation for positive growth.
A powerful approach is to ask students to consider how they can support others as part of their own journey. Simple actions—like reaching out to someone who may be feeling isolated, showing kindness to a younger student, or volunteering in the community—can create a ripple effect. These small acts not only create a more supportive school culture but also teach students empathy and the importance of looking beyond themselves.
Screen time is another area where students can benefit from positive change. By encouraging students to reduce time spent on devices, we help them to engage more meaningfully with the world around them. Less screen time allows them to build real connections, focus on personal interests, and enjoy a healthier balance in their lives.
As teachers, our role is to guide and support students in reflecting on the changes they can commit to, both big and small. Helping them consider these adjustments allows them to recognise their own agency and potential. Each positive step they take builds resilience, self-awareness, and empathy—qualities that will serve them well beyond the classroom.
Ultimately, inspiring students to make positive choices empowers them to shape their own lives. By teaching them that change is not only possible but essential for growth, we prepare them to meet the future with confidence, compassion, and purpose. In the end, we’re helping to create a generation of individuals who are ready to be the change they wish to see in the world.
