Mindful Monday: Don't Be Like a Duck

They​ say you should be like a duck. Calm on the surface while paddling like the dickens below the surface. 

Well, my first question is, who exactly is "they"? Because they obviously don't know what they are talking about. 

I think that's one of the biggest issues facing education today. We often feel like we have to "just keep swimming", to do what it takes, and to keep it all together like there is nothing to see here. 

Teaching is hard, and there is no reason to hide it. The quote above is terrible advice. So I say, don't listen to them. For far too long, educators have been "doing what it takes" at the expense of themselves. Well, no more. It's okay to speak your truth and be vulnerable. There is nothing wrong with asking for help and letting those around you know that you're struggling. Because I assure you, you are not the only one.  I'll say that again. I guarantee that you are not the only one paddling furiously below the surface. 

It's easy to look down the hallway and see a coworker that seems to have it all together, that never seems to break a sweat, and that doesn't seem to be struggling, then feel less than. However, just because someone carries it well, doesn't mean it isn't heavy. 

As we begin to near the end of the school year, don't feel the need to be more like a duck. I beg of you to continue to give yourself grace. Continue to see the small wins as victories and focus on all the amazingness happening all around you every day.

Mindful Monday: Celebrating Progress, Not Perfection

I ran across this quote recently, and it really struck me. As educators, many of us are innate cheerleaders. We cheer on our students. We are often first to celebrate their wins. And more often than not, we make a big deal out of the little things to show them how proud we are. Afterall, it's about progress, not perfection, right? 

So why is it that when it comes to ourselves, we often don't take credit for our success? Why do we down play our wins? Or even worse, we don't even acknowledge it as a success but instead as something that just "has to get done". And while, yes, taking care of business is a part of life, part of adulting, it doesn't make it any less of a success. 

I think we should be celebrating all our wins, big and small. Did you wake up and make it to work today? Some days are harder than others, so that deserves a big woo hoo! Did you make someone else smile? That is most definitely deserving of a double high-five. Are your lessons done for the week? That's worthy of a happy dance. 

If we aren't focusing on the small wins, we are missing opportunities to focus on what is going right.

I challenge you to focus on your wins this week no matter how "small". Focus on what is going right in your world. Celebrate each and every win as though it was a home run. Afterall, adulting is hard and so is teaching during a pandemic. Give yourself grace and celebrate your progress. Don't wait to celebrate perfection. 

Mindful Monday: Thank You

I am beyond humbled to be awarded the title Teacher of the Year. 

During my 15 years, I have met countless AMAZING educators that I have had the privilege of working alongside, and it's been no different here at Brushy Creek. The dedication to your students, your passion to make a difference, and the love of what you do inspires me each and every day to bring my best. 

My very reason for being is to shine a light on the greatness that lies within others. It is my purpose in life to pour into those around me. 

It is my great privilege to shine a light on the amazing work you each do day in and day out. YOU are my why!

I am truly grateful that everyone has welcomed me with open arms my first year here, as I have dove right in! 

When I call myself your Social Emotional Champion, I mean it. I am absolutely here to champion the social and emotional needs of both our students AND staff. Without you, there is no me. I am here to support the amazing work you do. I am here to validate the brilliance that occurings between the four walls of your room. I am here to make sure you know the impact you are making and the mark you are leaving behind. 

Thank you for this incredibly kind honor. It absolutely validates that I am right where I need to be! 

And thank you again for all the kind words I have received; they really do mean the world to me!