The term “high horse” usually refers to an attitude of superiority or arrogance that someone adopts, often resulting in the belittlement or dismissal of others. It is a way of saying that someone is acting as if they are above everyone else, looking down on others, and feeling self-important.
Teaching students about the danger of being on a high horse can help them develop empathy, humility, and respect for others, which are all essential qualities for successful personal and professional relationships.
Here are some ways you can teach students about high horse:
1. Start with a simple definition and some examples: Begin by defining high horse and giving students some examples from pop culture, history, or daily life. You could use stories, pictures, videos, or discussions to illustrate the concept and its negative effects.
2. Discuss the impact of high horse: Explain how high horse attitudes can harm relationships, create conflict, stifle creativity, and limit personal growth. Encourage students to share their own experiences of dealing with someone who acted on a high horse and how it made them feel.
3. Explore the motives behind high horse: Ask students to reflect on what drives someone to adopt a high horse attitude. Is it a lack of confidence, a need for control, a desire for attention or validation? Help them understand that behind every high horse is a person with fears and insecurities that need to be addressed in a healthy way.
4. Promote empathy and perspective-taking: Encourage students to practice putting themselves in others’ shoes and seeing things from different perspectives. This can help them develop compassion, respect, and humility, which are antidotes to high horse attitudes.
5. Foster a culture of humility and inclusivity: Create a classroom or school environment that celebrates diversity, encourages collaboration, and respects difference. Model and reward behaviors that promote humility, open-mindedness, and generosity of spirit.
Teaching students about high horse is not just about correcting a behavior; it’s about cultivating a mindset that values empathy, humility, and respect for all. By doing so, we prepare them for a more inclusive, compassionate, and successful future.
