Human beings carry inertia. We like the ruts we’re in. Even when we don’t like the ruts we’re in, we like the ruts we’re in.
As educators, we try to change habits, to affect inertia, one minute step at a time. And that is important – the culture of my TTBB choir is different than it was ten years ago, and it has changed through many minute inputs over the decade.
Other times, though, we need to shock the system. Because humans carry inertia, the only way to proceed is to add a huge quantity of energy to the system, to get it moving. It can go against your philosophy to move that forcefully to profoundly change the dynamic; but it sometimes can be the only way to effect the change you’re looking for.
Both tools should be in your quiver: as an educator, as a parent, as a leader.