10 Actions for Fueling Creativity: Enjoy the Ride

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What happens when we get so focused on getting through the day that we forget to enjoy it?

In this final episode of the Summer 2026 Listen and Learn Series, Dr. Matthew Worwood and Dr. Cyndi Burnett explore the tenth and final action from The Future Creative: Enjoy the Ride.

Teaching can sometimes feel like driving on autopilot. You get through the lesson, answer the questions, cover the material, and move on to the next thing. But when we are constantly focused on what comes next, we can miss the small moments that make teaching meaningful.

This episode explores the importance of noticing joy in everyday classroom experiences. A student's breakthrough, a surprising question, a moment of laughter, or a small sign of growth can remind us why we chose this work in the first place.

The episode also challenges the idea that fun is separate from serious learning. When students experience joy, they can become more willing to participate, take risks, and remember what they learn. But enjoyment matters for educators too. Finding moments of fun and connection can help us stay engaged and bring more energy into our work.

Dr. Matthew shares a personal story about a stressful period when he was writing about joy while feeling anything but joyful. A silly idea from his family about dressing up as their dog, Riggy, for a holiday card became an unexpected reminder to pause, laugh, and enjoy the moment.

The goal isn't to make every lesson bigger, louder, or more entertaining. Sometimes it is simply about noticing what is already enjoyable and giving ourselves permission to experience it.

 

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