Personally relationships are important because they provide opportunities for growth. Currently I divide my relationships into groups: my friendships and relationships, my professional relationships, and my family. My friendships/relationships include that with Akua, Annmarie, Freddie, Deji, and Marvin. My professional relationships include that with Mrs. Jordan, Ms. Edmondson, Sandy Stahl, Walden University faculty among some. And of course, there's my family.
My friendships/relationships have developed from many different settings and contexts (educational, social, and random). Regardless of the setting, each relationship teaches me something new about who I am and whether or not they end I am left with a new piece to add to the Annie Puzzle. All of them require getting to know the person not only in a one-on-one setting but also within a group dynamic. They require a level of respect that affords the other party a level of comfort in which to reveal who they are. Communication is sometimes one immense challenge to maintaining a friendship. But I have realized that when both parties are secure in the relationship, it demands much less effort for maintenance.
My professional relationships differ from my personal ones because I would not divulge personal information in that setting unless it will provide an opportunity for growth for someone else. These relationships contribute to my professional growth. I learn policies and best ways to support and be a voice for children through seasoned professionals and my personal experiences allow me to apply what I learned in a way that is unique to me.
"Human relationships, and the effects of relationships on relationships, are the building blocks of healthy development" (Shonkoff & Phillips, 2000, p. 4) I agree with this quote because my early relationships with my family and the experiences exposed to at an early age have strongly impact my passion for the early childhood field. My personality is highly due to my father and his tolerance and respect for the people around him have provided me with an ease to put others before myself and I believe that is a key quality that allows me to perform my responsibilities to EC so beautifully.
Reference
Shonkoff, J. P., & Phillips, D. (2000). From neurons to neighborhoods: The science of early childhood development. National Academies Press.
