By Nisia Patalan.
Change is inevitable.
Change can be evolutionary or revolutionary.
Change can be positive or negative.
Change is everywhere.
These generalizations, along with the concept of change, have guided many discussions throughout my 26 years in education. For gifted individuals, who may experience heightened emotional sensitivity, change can inspire creativity but also provoke worry or anxiety. To better adapt to the rapid changes happening all around us, embracing flexibility and viewing change as an opportunity for growth can help manage fear and uncertainty. Identify aspects of the change that you can influence, and concentrate your efforts there.
Building and maintaining strong support networks is also important, as connecting with others provides both encouragement and diverse viewpoints, making it easier to embrace new challenges and experiences. SENG is part of your support network! Our shared resources, SENG Community Groups, SENGChats, and SENGinars can help maintain connection in a world that can feel divided and isolating.
As we face the inevitable changes coming nationally and globally, let’s support each other, even when our perspectives differ. By fostering connection, communication, and celebrating diverse viewpoints, we can nurture and empower each other. It isn’t easy to be a gifted person. Our brains and hearts can easily be overwhelmed; but, together, we can navigate the challenges and growth that change brings and build a more connected community.
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Nisia Patalan has been an educator for 25 years, 17 of which have focused on gifted learners. Her specific professional focus is the identification and service of gifted students from culturally, linguistically, and economically diverse populations. SENG has provided Nisia with support, empathy, and countless resources and she is thrilled to be on the board and able to give back to the community. Nisia loves developing potential in children and adults and busting myths about what it means to be gifted. She is a Gifted Education Regional Consultant for the southwest corner of Colorado, the gifted coordinator for the San Juan BOCES, and owns a small (but mighty) Professional Development business (Spark Education). Outside of work, you’ll find her running around in the mountains with her kids and friends!