Born in Alabama in 1926, Zig Ziglar was an influential motivational speaker, salesman, and author who left a legacy of success principles, which continue to inspire millions all over the world. Incorporating Ziglar’s teachings into the curriculum can help students develop a positive mindset, healthy self-image, and hone their personal and professional skills.
Why Teach Students About Zig Ziglar?
Teaching students about Zig Ziglar enables them to understand the importance of positive thinking, motivation, and goal setting as they strive for personal and academic success. By introducing them to his powerful insights and techniques, educators empower students with tools that contribute to successful living.
Key Principles of Zig Ziglar’s Teachings
1. Developing A Positive Attitude
Ziglar emphasized that attitude determines one’s altitude. Thus, by developing a positive attitude, students can better handle challenges and approach goals with determination. Integrating this principle into teaching helps cultivate a growth mindset among learners.
2. Setting Goals
Ziglar saw goal-setting as crucial for personal development. Teachers can help students establish SMART (Specific, Measurable, Achievable, Relevant, Time-bound) goals for their academic and life ambitions. Sharing stories from Ziglar’s life will illustrate this principle effectively.
3. Building A Healthy Self-Image
Ziglar believed that a healthy self-image is essential to realizing one’s full potential. Educators can instill this value in students by encouraging them to recognize their strengths and believe in their abilities. Classroom activities that enhance self-awareness support this learning.
4. Learning Effective Communication
Effective communication was at the heart of Ziglar’s career as he sold ideas alongside products. Educators who teach students essential communication skills such as listening actively, expressing clearly, using non-verbal cues, and empathic understanding set them up for success in personal and professional relationships.
5. Practicing Consistency
Ziglar’s success came from consistent effort and belief in his dreams. Through regular goal assessment and commitment to self-improvement, students can apply consistency in personal growth, academic pursuits, and future careers.
Incorporating Ziglar’s Teachings in the Classroom
1. Start with Inspirational Quotes
Use Ziglar’s quotes as thought-provoking prompts or conversation starters to encourage reflection and stimulate discussions during classroom or counselling sessions.
2. Encourage Journaling and Personal Reflection
Introduce students to journaling as a tool for goal setting, self-discovery, and reflection on Ziglar’s principles, helping them internalize and apply these teachings.
3. Use Multimedia Resources
Take advantage of online videos, podcasts, or audio recordings of Zig Ziglar’s speeches and interviews to engage students with his content and delivery style.
4. Provide Opportunities for Goal Setting
Organize structured activities where students define their goals using the SMART criteria and hold them accountable by monitoring their progress.
5. Assign Reading Materials
Recommend books authored by Zig Ziglar like “See You at the Top,” “Born to Win,” or “Goals!” to expose students to his thoughts on personal development and success.
Conclusion
By teaching students about Zig Ziglar’s life lessons, educators offer valuable tools that can help shape character, build resilience, and develop necessary skills for personal and professional success. With the power of such teachings at hand, young people will be better equipped for their future endeavours.
