Yesterday I was teaching one of my students, and I could see he was having a hard time.
It made me stop and think, not everyone learns the same way.
Some learn by watching.
Some learn by listening.
Some learn by doing.
I once heard something that stayed with me:
“If they don’t learn the way you teach, then teach the way they learn.”
That hit me deep.
I told him, “Do you remember how you learned your ABCs?”
You didn’t just read them, you sang them.
So we changed it up. We made it simple. We made it fun. And you could see it start to click.
That’s when it reminded me,
As teachers, coaches, and leaders, it’s not about forcing our way. It’s about finding their way.
If someone is struggling, don’t give up on them. Slow down. Go deeper. Learn how they think.
Then meet them there.
That’s how we really help people grow. Keep teaching. Keep caring. Keep finding a way. Let’s go make amazing things happen today. God is good all the time and all the time God is good .
... Read moreTeaching is truly a privilege that carries the responsibility to understand and adapt to each learner’s unique needs. Reflecting on the idea, "If they don’t learn the way you teach, then teach the way they learn," I have come to appreciate how crucial flexibility is in education and coaching.
In my own experience, whether working with children learning their ABCs or adults developing new skills, identifying whether a learner is a visual, auditory, or kinesthetic type has vastly improved outcomes. For instance, some students thrive when they can watch demonstrations—this aligns with the "TRAIN STRONG KA-TUKENRO" motto I often see in martial arts circles, emphasizing strong, clear practice. Others benefit from listening to explanations or verbal encouragement, while some learn best by physically engaging and practicing.
Changing my teaching style to meet these needs often requires creativity and patience. Making lessons fun and simple helps ideas resonate and stick. For example, turning a reading lesson into a song or a hands-on activity proved instrumental in helping a student who was initially struggling.
Moreover, teaching isn’t only about delivering information—it’s about embodying leadership and mentorship that motivates. Encouraging a growth mindset, being patient with setbacks, and never giving up are essential. The process includes slowing down when necessary, going deeper to understand the learner’s thinking, and meeting them wherever they are.
These principles apply beyond classrooms to coaching in sports or martial arts, where motivation and personalized guidance pave the way for stronger learners and performers. The sense of community built by embracing different learning paces and styles is incredibly rewarding.
Ultimately, teaching with empathy and adaptability creates an environment where learning flourishes. It’s a continuous journey of discovery not just for students, but for teachers too. By keeping faith in this journey, great things can be achieved—truly making teaching a privilege and a powerful tool for growth.