Lessons from The Little Mermaid: Embracing Curiosity and Questioning Beliefs
In this post, YOU will discover:
the importance of remaining open to other possibilities, continuously asking questions, and seeking more information when asking questions or learning something new
a reminder to find joy in ordinary moments, and pursue your passions despite others' opinions or self-doubt.
Who knew the Little Mermaid was going to be the source of my latest inspiration. While on vacation this past week, I found myself going down a rabbit hole of Disney movies, the first one was the one and only Little Mermaid (yes, the original cartoon version).
As I was watching, I was admittedly multitasking while I was playing with Kelcie and making/eating lunch. As soon as I sat down to attempt to eat my lunch, while also keeping it away from my 1 year old, I found myself tuning into the scene on the screen. I’m not sure why I chose this moment to pay attention to the movie (one that I’ve seen several times before) but I’m sure glad I did. It was the catalyst for one of two takeaways. [I feel like this could be a takeaway in and of itself…trust in the divine timing around us, but that’s a story for another day].
Dinglehopper & Snarfblatt
If you are familiar with the movie (which I hope that you are), it was the scene where Ariel was talking to Scuttle, showing the fork and pipe, aka the dinglehopper and snarfblatt. What caught my ear and eye was how trusting Ariel was of the information that Scuttle was sharing and I couldn’t help but think how often I have done this in the past. Ariel brings these items to Scuttle, and is so eager to learn what they are, that she doesn’t even question how he knows that it’s a ‘dinglehopper’. She believes him completely, that is until she tries to use it the way that he shared when she was eating with the Prince. It’s in that moment, I like to believe she realizes that she has more to learn.
As a new-teacher (and really in life in general), I did this same pattern all the time. Anytime I didn’t know something (which was very frequent), I would ask questions or seek information, and then take that at face value without asking any other question or even believing that there may be another answer or another way. I thought everyone else knew more than I did, and so I was constantly seeking information and approval from others to define who I was going to be as a teacher.
I thought everyone else knew more than I did, and so I was constantly seeking information and approval from others to define who I was going to be as a teacher.
To Believe or Not to Believe
Now, I’m not saying not to believe people. I don’t really think this is about believing or not in this situation. My point is more to be open to other possibilities. Hear what someone else says and then continue to ask more questions. Do more research. Keep seeking information. And stop allowing others to define who you show up as, as an educator!
What does Experience Have to do with It?
Especially in education, it is easy to fall into the trap of ‘they have more experience so they must be right’. Stop seeking right. Start seeking what is best for this moment. Or this student. Or this class. Because at the end of the day, what is best for this moment, is going to change…each moment.
Allow Yourself to Get Curious
The second takeaway I pulled from the movie was woven throughout the entire movie and it was one of curiosity and wonder. Ariel’s perspective on life is one where even the simplest items (such as a fork) spark so much joy for her. She is constantly finding new items, has massive dreams and desires, and doesn’t stop wondering what life could be like, even when others close to her don't believe or support her.
A statement I’ve been holding onto lately is ‘it’s the ordinary moments that make our lives extraordinary’ and I think Ariel had this mindset as her priority. When was the last time you found joy in the simplest things?
‘it’s the ordinary moments that make our lives extraordinary’
Get Curious, Ask Questions, and Keep Wondering
Follow Ariel’s lead and if something is on your heart, go after it. Don’t let other people’s opinions stop you. Don’t let your own inner critic stop you. As you’ve heard from many others, just start…and build your momentum!
They say inspiration comes from the simplest places and I believe that to be true! I'm so grateful for these reminders that came to me while watching the movie, and I hope they helped you as well! Always remember…Keep your heart up, your eyes up, as you never know when inspiration will come into play!
Stay True & Be YOU
-Lindsay-