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Unread 30-03-2015, 19:18
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Robochick1319
AKA: Catherine
FRC #1319 (Flash)
Team Role: Mentor
 
Join Date: Feb 2006
Rookie Year: 2004
Location: Greenville,SC
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Re: Changing a culture of cynicism

Quote:
Originally Posted by mrnoble View Post
Either I am misunderstanding what you wrote, or what you are observing isn't cynicism. Being reserved is perfectly acceptable. It is part of some cultures and subcultures, and certainly part of some personalities. While dancing and jumping around with mascots is common at FRC events, it is not mandatory. Cynicism would be sneering at people, or at FRC itself, saying "this is stupid", and refusing to participate in the core learning activities. Personally, I will dance with my students who want to dance sometimes, and I'll sit quietly with those who prefer to observe and soak it in sometimes. Both behaviors are okay, and neither should offend anyone.
Yes, this sounds more like apathy or pessimism. It's easy to feel that way especially when things don't work out the way people hope or plan. I have found that the best remedy for this is constant encouragement and engagement. Laughing, cheering, and staying positive is infectious. They won't catch it from other teams - they catch it from their mentors and fellow team members. Emphasizing that the experience is worth more than the results is key. Everyone likes winning but it's important to emphasize how that can't be the measure of a good time because it isn't reliable.

You can tell them, "If you don't get excited, you won't have fun, you won't stay positive, and you won't be open for opportunities that can make you successful." It takes time to break this attitude but you can do it.
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