Redirecting Reluctance

I am not a fan of going to the dentist. Every six months as my appointment rolls around, I not only dread it, but try to find reasons why I can’t go. After sifting through every excuse I can think of, I conclude that I am a grown woman and don’t have to go if I don’t want to . . . no excuse needed. However, I always manage to turn my attitude around and push myself to go. Why?

1. I understand the purpose for going. I am fully aware that dental care affects my overall health and that if I don’t go, I could suffer the consequences of cavities and tooth decay. I understand the payoff is worth the inconvenience of a 30-minute appointment.

2. I’ve found a dental office that is a good fit for me. The overall atmosphere, personalities of the staff, and little nuances (like a comfortable chair and headphones with my choice of music or TV with my favorite show) makes this experience tolerable.

The feeling of dread is one most people can relate to. For one reason or other we dread something—the dentist, the doctor, cleaning the house, public speaking, car shopping . . . The list goes on. We push through dread by focusing on the purpose and finding good-fit solutions. We make it so the benefits outweigh the price we pay.

Our reluctant readers know they need to read to improve, just like I know I need to go to the dentist to maintain healthy teeth. There are things we can put in place for our students, just like my dentist does for me, that make it possible to persevere with text. Providing choice in what they read, where they sit, when they read, and how they read allows students to develop good-fit habits for reading. Choice is motivating, comfort increases stamina, and together they can redirect reluctance.