My "Why" Behind Why I Teach

Teaching is more than just a profession for me—it’s a calling, a passion, and a mission that runs deep. Over the years, I’ve realized that my purpose extends beyond the classroom and into the lives of the individuals I encounter. So, what drives me to teach? Let me share my "why" with you.

1. Empowering Others Through Knowledge At the heart of why I teach is the belief that education has the power to change lives. I’ve experienced firsthand how knowledge can be a catalyst for growth, not just academically but personally and professionally. When I teach, I’m not just imparting information; I’m equipping others with the tools they need to overcome obstacles, pursue their dreams, and unlock their potential. Every time I see a student gain confidence in their abilities or push past a barrier, I am reminded of why I chose this path.

2. Giving Back and "Passing the Torch "I’ve been fortunate to have incredible mentors and educators who poured into me, shaping who I am today. I feel a deep responsibility to "pass the torch" and give back to others, especially those who may not have had the same opportunities or guidance. Teaching allows me to contribute to the next generation of leaders, healthcare professionals, or community changemakers. It’s my way of ensuring that the knowledge and support I’ve received don’t stop with me but continue to ripple outward.

3. Creating Opportunities for GrowthFor many people, education opens doors that might otherwise remain closed. Whether I’m teaching a course in healthcare or coaching someone through professional development, I know that what I’m offering is not just a lesson—it’s an opportunity for growth. I teach because I want to be a part of someone’s journey toward a better future. Every class, every conversation is a chance to plant seeds of potential that may blossom into something life-changing.

4. Helping Others Navigate Their Path Life is full of challenges, and sometimes people just need someone to believe in them or guide them along the way. I teach because I want to be that person. Whether it’s a student struggling with confidence or someone seeking direction in their career, I’m committed to being a resource, a mentor, and a motivator. I’ve faced my own share of challenges, and teaching gives me the chance to help others navigate theirs.

5. Building a Legacy of Impact I believe that teaching is one of the most meaningful ways to leave a lasting legacy. It’s not about the titles or accolades—it’s about the lives you touch, the minds you inspire, and the individuals you help shape. When I look at the work I do, I see it as an opportunity to leave behind something greater than myself. By teaching, I can leave an imprint on the world, not through grand gestures, but through the cumulative impact of every student, every conversation, and every lesson.

6. Making a Difference Beyond the Classroom For me, teaching extends far beyond the classroom. It’s about creating an environment where people feel seen, heard, and empowered to be their best selves. I teach because I believe in the power of connection and the ripple effect that one act of encouragement can have. Whether it’s helping someone believe in their capabilities or guiding someone through a difficult decision, I know that my influence can extend far beyond the immediate moment.I teach because I believe in people. I believe in their potential, their ability to grow, and their capacity to overcome. Teaching is my way of contributing to that journey, of playing a part in their success. My "why" is rooted in the joy of seeing others succeed, in passing on the lessons I’ve learned, and in leaving behind a legacy of impact that will last long after I’ve left the classroom.

Teaching isn’t just what I do—it’s who I am.

What Leadership Means to Me and How It Should Feel, Not Just Look Leadership is often defined by roles, titles, or how someone appears in a position of authority. But for me, leadership is far more than a title or a visual image. Leadership, at its core, is about how it feels—both for the leader and for those being led. It’s not about fitting into a mold of what society expects a leader to look like but about creating an environment where people feel empowered, respected, and inspired.

1. Leadership Feels Like Trust At its heart, leadership is rooted in trust. As a leader, I believe it’s essential for people to feel that they are trusted and can, in turn, trust their leader. When there is mutual trust, people feel safe to take risks, share ideas, and bring their authentic selves to the table. Leadership isn’t about micromanaging or controlling every detail—it’s about providing guidance, giving people the freedom to grow, and showing confidence in their abilities. How it should feel: A true leader creates a sense of trust where team members know they can rely on their leader for support, but also feel empowered to make decisions on their own.

2. Leadership Feels Like Empathy Empathy is one of the most powerful, yet often overlooked, aspects of leadership. Leadership should be about understanding the needs, emotions, and experiences of others. It’s about putting yourself in someone else’s shoes and leading from a place of compassion and understanding. A leader who is empathetic doesn’t just focus on the results—they also care deeply about the people achieving them. How it should feel: People should feel heard and understood. A leader should make them feel that their emotions, concerns, and challenges are not only valid but are a priority. Empathy fosters loyalty and connection.

3. Leadership Feels Like Inspiration Leadership should inspire others to be their best selves, not through intimidation or pressure, but through encouragement and motivation. A great leader ignites passion in those around them and encourages them to tap into their potential. It's about cultivating an environment where people feel motivated to push beyond their limitations and achieve things they didn’t think were possible. How it should feel: Team members should feel energized and excited about their work, driven by the leader’s ability to share a vision and inspire action, rather than merely directing tasks.

4. Leadership Feels Like Support Support is foundational in leadership. Being a leader means being there for the people you serve, not just when things are going well, but especially when challenges arise. It’s not enough to lead from a distance or with detached authority—real leadership feels like being in the trenches with your team, offering guidance, encouragement, and resources when needed. How it should feel: People should feel that their leader has their back, that they can approach their leader without fear, and that they will receive the support necessary to succeed.

5. Leadership Feels Like Accountability Accountability is often seen as something that leaders impose on others, but true leadership requires holding oneself accountable just as much as the team. A leader must be willing to take responsibility for both successes and failures, owning their actions and decisions. This type of accountability fosters a culture of integrity. How it should feel: The leader creates a space where accountability is shared. Team members should feel that they are responsible for their work but that the leader will also step in when things go wrong, acknowledging their own role in the outcome.

6. Leadership Feels Like Growth Leadership is not about maintaining the status quo—it’s about continuous improvement, both for the leader and the team. Great leaders cultivate a growth mindset in themselves and their teams. They create an atmosphere where learning is encouraged, mistakes are seen as opportunities, and personal development is prioritized. How it should feel: People should feel that they are constantly growing and evolving under the guidance of their leader. A leader should feel like a mentor, guiding others toward their highest potential.

7. Leadership Feels Like Integrity Integrity in leadership is non-negotiable. Leadership that feels right is grounded in honesty, transparency, and ethical behavior. It’s not about making popular decisions or choosing the easiest path, but about doing what’s right—even when no one is watching. How it should feel: People should feel that their leader is trustworthy and consistent in their values. They should know that their leader will always act with fairness and integrity, which in turn inspires them to do the same.

Leadership is a Feeling, Not Just a Title

Leadership, to me, is about how we make people feel—supported, inspired, trusted, and understood. It’s not about how we appear on the surface or how we fit into the traditional image of a leader. The most effective leaders lead from the heart, not just from a position of authority. Leadership is about creating a sense of purpose, fostering trust, and building relationships that go beyond tasks and results.

True leadership is felt, not just seen