TBN #40
Basics of Unlearning
Hey friend!
It’s been a minute but I’m back! I took two weeks off to rest and prepare for the move to the Los Angeles where I’ll be working. At this point, furniture has been sold. Donations have been made. And, the movers have taken the boxes and the car. In the next few days, I’ll be on a plane to LAX to start a new adventure as an Associate Dean for DEI. Of course, I’m doing it all during back-to-school/college move-in season.
Doing a long-distance move during back-to-school season is a wild time.
For educators, like myself, back-to-school season marks the beginning of something new. Whether it’s teaching, programming, or embarking on new goals for the academic year, it feels like NYE. This time is often associated with letting go of the previous year and engaging in all the activities for the current academic year.
In the spirit of this season, I actually encourage you to unlearn something during this time. We can actually learn a lot about ourselves when we unlearn beliefs and ideas about ourselves and others.
What’s something I’ve had to unlearn?
Well, I’m glad you asked. I had to unlearn binaries. Not only in terms of gender but also in terms of gender expression, racial identity, sexuality, and binary thinking. Not everything is black and white, right or wrong, good or bad. Most social identities are a spectrum. Most things in life are complex and cannot be reduced into either/or options.
So, how to you unlearn something?
First, you have to identify what you want to unlearn. This can be anything from a a belief, an idea, habit, or a way of thinking.
Next, identify a way to challenge the idea/belief/habit you want to unlearn. You should focus on something that is holding you back or may be causing harm to others.
Not sure how to challenge the idea/belief/habit? Look for evidence that contradicts the idea/belief/habit. For instance, if you have the belief that only college-educated people can be successful in life, then you should look for examples of people who are successful that did not go or complete college. You may also consider redefining what success looks like.
Next, you will need to practice this new way of thinking or belief system for it to stick. Eventually, the new belief/idea/habit/way of thinking will become natural to you.
Unlearning is about letting go of beliefs, habits, and ideas that no longer serve us. It requires us to challenge ourselves, seek out new perspectives, and practice new behaviors.
Send me a message and let me know what you are unlearning this season.
Now, let’s get into it…
WEEKLY UPDATE
CLIFF NOTES: IN CASE YOU MISSED IT…
August is National Civility Month and Transgender History Month.
HOMEWORK: JBCO WATER
What I’m Watching 📺 : Lincoln Lawyer on Netflix is way better than the movie.
What I'm Using 🚰: Jamaican Black Castor Oil Water is better than regular tap water. You can use it in your hair and on your face/skin.
What I’m Reading This Month 📚: Folks on social voted for my next book. I’m reading Soul Boom: Why We Need a Spiritual Revolution
DANCE BREAK: WEST
In honor of my move, I’m listening to “West” by River Tiber.
(Tell me you'll miss me) back in the city
I’d love to hear from you!
What do you need to be better in work and in life? Send me a message or connect with me on social.
