The 2025-2026 school year is upon us. There is a feeling in the air. The kind of feeling that comes with new beginnings.
Education is not just about knowledge. It shapes lives. It guides the young as they think of their futures. Teachers and students come together once more, and the question of purpose hangs heavily over them.
Each day is a blank page. An opportunity to create. What makes you rise in the morning? What stirs the fire in your belly? These are not idle thoughts. They define who we are and what we fight for.
To find your purpose is to commit. It is a promise to yourself and to those around you. When life gets tough, it is this purpose that will pull you through.
Vince Lombardi said it well: “Most people fail, not because of lack of desire, but because of lack of commitment.” Commitment is the bedrock of dreams. It requires work, strength, and a steady hand.
To commit is to embrace the struggle. It means focus and consistency in all things. We must look within for our motivation, not to the applause of others.
Studies show that when our fire comes from within, we keep it burning longer. External praise may spark a flame, but true commitment runs deeper.
In our quest for mastery, we must seek excellence. Not just success. We dive into the details, not just competing with others but with ourselves. It requires precision. It requires discipline.
Setting goals is essential. Clear goals guide us and mark our way. They turn dreams into plans, directing our energy and showing our growth.
Remember, success is not a moment in time. It is the result of habits. Commitment is not a one-time choice. It is a daily act.
We need to change how we see effort. It is not a burden. It is the reward. Embrace the satisfaction that comes from hard work.
In a world that seeks quick fixes, we must think long-term. Commitment is not about quick wins. It is about lasting outcomes. This shift keeps us focused on what truly matters, leading to achievements that withstand time.
As you pursue your dreams this year, remember your purpose. Take time to define it and keep it close.
The road may not be smooth or straight. But with purpose and commitment, you will find the strength to rise, to embrace the journey, and to chase your dreams with unwavering resolve. Make this school year your very best. It won’t be easy, but it will be worth it.
JC Bowman is the Executive Director of Professional Educators of Tennessee
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