We caught up with the brilliant and insightful Erin Harris a few weeks ago and have shared our conversation below.
Alright, Erin thanks for taking the time to share your stories and insights with us today. So let’s jump to your mission – what’s the backstory behind how you developed the mission that drives your brand?
In the aftermath of a harrowing school shooting, I found myself grappling with the haunting echoes of trauma. Recognizing the urgent need for mental health support, I sought help and entered a program that proved to be a turning point in my life. Within the confines of this program, I unearthed a treasure trove of valuable skills and tools, each one a lifeline in my journey toward healing.
Yet, as I navigated the complexities of my own recovery, a glaring realization emerged: the mental health system was fundamentally flawed. Why did I have to experience such a profound crisis to access the level of help and support that proved transformational? The answer spurred the birth of an idea that would later blossom into Un/Do.
In the crucible of personal growth, it became evident that my journey toward well-being was not one to be taken alone. I understood that for lasting change, it wasn’t sufficient for me alone to undergo this transformative process. My husband, my partner in life, needed to embark on his own path of self-discovery and growth. We needed to synchronize our understanding, adopting the same language, employing the same skills, and committing to the shared endeavor of becoming better individuals.
This realization laid the foundation for a crucial aspect of Un/Do’s mission – the inclusion of a comprehensive curriculum not only for students but also for their home support networks and educators. The vision was clear: when everyone involved in a student’s life is equipped with the same set of skills and speaks a common language, the support network becomes a formidable force in nurturing the needs of the students.
Un/Do became a vessel for collective growth, acknowledging that the journey to resilience and emotional intelligence is not solitary. The mission expanded beyond individual healing to encompass a holistic approach that involved families and educators. It was about fostering a shared understanding, creating a unified front where everyone involved was committed to the well-being of the youth.
In weaving this integral part of Un/Do’s mission, the scars of personal trauma transformed into a driving force for positive change. The vision emerged from the crucible of adversity, resonating with the belief that a collective commitment to growth and support can create a ripple effect, altering the landscape of mental health and education for generations to come.
Great, appreciate you sharing that with us. Before we ask you to share more of your insights, can you take a moment to introduce yourself and how you got to where you are today to our readers.
With a robust 15-year career in education, my journey has been characterized by an unwavering commitment to a holistic approach to student development. My educational philosophy centers around ensuring that students not only receive quality academic instruction but also have access to essential problem-solving tools. My entry into the world of education stemmed from a profound passion for nurturing young minds and fostering a learning environment where every aspect of a student’s well-being is considered.
Throughout my career, I’ve diligently worked to provide students with a comprehensive educational experience. This commitment extends beyond traditional teaching methods, emphasizing a student-focused approach that addresses their diverse needs. I firmly believe that education is not just about imparting knowledge but also equipping students with the skills to navigate challenges, think critically, and become well-rounded individuals poised for success in various aspects of life.
My specialization lies in crafting an innovative and impactful learning program that transcend traditional educational boundaries. As the Founder & CEO of Curriculum Development & Implementation at Un/Do, my primary dedication is to curate specialized curriculum and materials. This unique educational approach is designed to empower students, families, and educators by providing essential emotional development skills and a deep understanding of brain function. At Un/Do, our curriculum is at the forefront of proactive emotional wellness initiatives, ensuring a comprehensive and transformative educational experience.
What sets me apart is not only my deep-rooted passion for reshaping education but also my ability to conceptualize and implement forward-thinking solutions. Leading a team of over 40 individuals, I have successfully overseen key business components, including content creation, social media, grants, marketing, and more. My role goes beyond traditional educational boundaries, involving the strategic review and analysis of data for system implementation, thereby driving substantial growth in the organizational business model.
I take pride in the dynamic and multifaceted nature of my work. Beyond the traditional confines of a classroom, I have collaborated with diverse teams to develop and implement curriculum, training, and professional development opportunities. Serving as a founding member on multiple school boards, I have actively contributed to shaping the educational landscape.
In summary, I invite you to explore the diverse facets of my professional journey – from my roots in education to my current role at Un/Do. My mission is to redefine learning, foster student success, and contribute meaningfully to the education landscape.
Can you share a story from your journey that illustrates your resilience?
My journey is marked by a profound moment that tested not only my resilience but also fueled my commitment to making a positive impact. As a survivor of a school shooting, I faced the aftermath with unwavering determination to transform tragedy into an opportunity for growth. Instead of succumbing to the trauma, I channeled my experiences into creating a proactive trauma informed program for students.
This endeavor wasn’t just a response to adversity; it was a testament to my resilience. The challenges posed by such a traumatic event only strengthened my resolve to ensure the well-being of students. In the face of adversity, I became a beacon of resilience, turning personal trauma into a source of empowerment for others. This journey not only shaped my commitment to emotional well-being within education but also reflects my unwavering spirit in the face of adversity.
Do you have any insights you can share related to maintaining high team morale?
Leading a team and cultivating a positive work environment require a thoughtful approach, and at Un/Do, we believe in embodying our values to maintain high morale. Here’s a glimpse into our strategies:
Transparent Communication: We prioritize clear and honest communication within our team. Similar to our emphasis on expressing thoughts and feelings in our curriculum, we encourage open dialogue among team members. This builds trust and facilitates the free exchange of ideas.
Empathy at the Core: Acknowledging the significance of empathy in understanding others, we extend this principle to our team dynamics. Recognizing individual strengths, challenges, and perspectives creates a compassionate workplace. We respect that everyone has distinct needs, mirroring our recognition of individuality in our curriculum.
Commitment to Growth: Aligned with our dedication to continuous learning in our programs, we foster an environment that supports professional development. Team members are encouraged to expand their skills, contributing to a culture of ongoing growth and enhancement.
Celebrating Achievements: Similar to our encouragement of acknowledging personal victories, we celebrate team successes. Recognizing accomplishments, regardless of size, contributes to a positive environment and uplifts team spirit.
Work-Life Balance: Our approach to workload management reflects our understanding of stress and burnout. We strive for a balanced workload, promoting a healthy equilibrium between work and personal life. This ensures sustained productivity and positive morale.
Flexibility and Adaptability: Just as adaptability is crucial in coping with challenges, we integrate this principle into our work environment. Flexibility is key to navigating changes and uncertainties, fostering resilience among our team members.
Contact Info:
- Website: www.undomindset.com
- Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/undorethinkyourthinking/
- Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/people/UnDo-Rethink-Your-Thinking/100084428202880/
- Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/company/un-do-rethink-your-thinking/
- Youtube: https://www.youtube.com/@UnDoRethinkYourThinking
- Other: https://www.tiktok.com/@undorethinkyourthinking