Most professional paths, like personal ones, are winding. As educators, we go through unexpected moments — some good, some challenging — that shape who we are and how we work. Amid the ups and downs, the thing that keeps us moving ahead is learning. Learning helps us grow, keeps us on track or sets us on a new track, and helps us be our best for students. As I reflect on my 40-plus years as an educator, three essential elements have significantly shaped my journey of continuous learning: working with a coach, expanding my perspective through multiple forms of professional learning, and embracing innovation. Find a coach of your own Finding a coach of my own was perhaps the most pivotal part of my learning