Meet Greg Watkins

Alright – so today we’ve got the honor of introducing you to Greg Watkins. We think you’ll enjoy our conversation, we’ve shared it below.

Greg, so good to have you with us today. We’ve always been impressed with folks who have a very clear sense of purpose and so maybe we can jump right in and talk about how you found your purpose?

I believe I identified it at age 6 when I verbally announced what I wanted to be when I grew up: a Teacher. I said it in the presence of other elementary school teachers including my then 1st grade and former kindergarten teachers. I’ll never forget the moment. It was lunch time/recess and I was one of the students that stayed inside that day. Somehow the topic of the future came up, and I mentioned that I wanted to be a teacher when I grow up. The teachers present in the room were so stunned that this came out of the mouth of a six year old. But that’s how much they truly inspired me. As the years would go on, this would manifest more and more.

Appreciate the insights and wisdom. Before we dig deeper and ask you about the skills that matter and more, maybe you can tell our readers about yourself?

I am a passionate educator and educational leader having served now for nearly 8 years. I so enjoy the important work that I do with youth and children. It is essential. For many years, I have subscribed to the notion that if I can impact the lives of students in the ways my village of teachers did so for me (particularly at the elementary school level), my life would be a bit more purposeful and purpose-filled.

In addition to my work in public, private, and charter schools, I have also served for 11 years as Artistic Director of The Washington Youth Choir (under the auspices of The MusicianShip), a choral music education program and pre-professional ensemble comprised of middle and high school students.

When I am not in the school building, I am activating the other side of me that is an accomplished artist: Singer, Pianist, Actor, and Musical Director having earned numerous awards and honors.

I believe what is most special about my work is the ability I have to impact the lives of so many individuals across cultures, ages, and beliefs. It is a work in which I earnestly believe, as evidenced by my years of commitment.

If you had to pick three qualities that are most important to develop, which three would you say matter most?

I wholeheartedly believe the three qualities that were most impactful in my journey were commitment to purpose, a strong work ethic, and empathy.

As you grow in life, discovering your path and immersing yourself in the trajectory of your career (forward), never forget your WHY – why are you doing this? Where is your heart? Does it feed your soul?

We are human BEINGS and not human DOINGS. We experience life on a daily basis. It hits us many different kinds of ways. We learn, we grow, we impact, we are offended, we love, we get our hearts broken, and we (re)emerge. As life inevitably happens to and around you, always remember the true power of introspection. It is healthy for self-care and survival. There is no one quite like you. So, you must do everything you can to continue advancing in your life’s path and the discovery thereof. But also be intentional about taking great care of the uniqueness you bring to every setting and circumstance.

What do you do when you feel overwhelmed? Any advice or strategies?

When I feel overwhelmed, I remove myself from the noise and all of the things that resemble busyness. It settles my mind, heart and spirit. When I am alone, I can breathe far easier. I can pray more soundly. I can even cry if necessary. I have discovered that road trips (where I am the driver) and being surrounded by water is deeply therapizing for me. It affords me space and time to do a check-in with myself to ascertain the condition of my heart, the reason for my feelings, and the work I can do to calm down. I always say “thank God for God, thank God for therapy, and thank God for a circle of friends who support, love and care about me”.

Contact Info:

• Instagram: @gregwatkinsmusic
• Facebook: Greg Watkins

Image Credits

-Thomas Mobley
-Maya Darasaw