Mindful Monday: Self-Regulation

Far too often, we think being able to self-regulate means staying happy or avoiding getting upset. However, I would argue being able to self-regulate is instead being able to work through our emotions: the good, the bad, and even the ugly. 

Because here's the thing, no matter what strategies we have, no amount of deep breathing techniques or listening to our favorite upbeat music will keep us from becoming upset or frustrated. The goal is NOT to avoid these hard or often uncomfortable feelings, but instead to process them and work through them. It's not realistic to stay happy all the time. And it's not sustainable, much less enjoyable, to stay upset and angry. 

Life is a never ending series of emotions. It's full of peaks and valleys. It is our job to recognize our feelings, acknowledge and validate them, then figure out how we navigate them. That is what self-regulation truly is. 

Wishing you a week where you know each and everyone of your feelings is valid and honored. And here's the best part, you are surrounded by people that care deeply about you. If a feeling is too big to process on your own, reach out for a listening ear. 

Mindful Monday: Even If

When times are tough, we are often quick to find the drawbacks in our situation. When things get hard, the negatives become more and more apparent to us. And before we know it, our internal dialogue gets stuck on all the things that aren't working, what else can go wrong, and sometimes the worst of all, the what ifs.  

All those "what ifs" are just fear taking over. The more we focus on the negatives, the more power we give it. Even when things are truly difficult, I assure you there is a bright spot to be found. 

I come asking two things of you today: 

1) In the thick of all the negatives, look for the bright spots. Find the positives. Focus on what you can control: your thoughts and your actions. 

2) Start to change your inner dialogue from "what if" to "even if". There is so much not in our control, that it is simply an energy drain to focus on the "what ifs". Regain your power. Take control of the narrative in your head. 

Because at the end of the day, even if your lesson fails, even if you didn't have the perfect activity, even if today is less than stellar- You are STILL amazing! Your students STILL love you! And we are STILL grateful for YOU! 

Here's to taking the leap of faith that even if it isn't what we hoped for or even if it's extra hard right now, that we will make it through! 

Mindful Monday(ish): Don't Be So Hard on Yourself

"Don't be so hard on yourself," they say. It's certainly easier said than done. 

When you have a never ending to-do list; when 20+ students show up each and every day looking to you to lead them; when leaving the world better off than when we found it is a part of the job description, it's hard not to feel the pressure. It's hard not to feel the weight of all the responsibilities. And it can be easy to feel like you don't live up to the mark sometimes. 

But here's the good news. Every day you show up is a win. Every day you try again is a win. Every day you model that kindness matters is a win. 

We don't need you to be perfect. We don't need to be everything to everyone. We don't need you to be the best at everything. 

What we need and more importantly, our students need, is you to be present. When you show up and you love them...that's what counts. 

And on the days that are especially hard, just remind yourself...

Mindful Monday: Rest

Our society commends the "go-getter". We praise the "early bird". In education, the idea of doing more is often expected. However, when is enough, enough? 

I implore you to make rest the "norm". I beg you to make yourself a priority. It is only when you are at your best can you give your best. 

This week, I encourage you to make the gutsy move and carve out time to recharge. You deserve it! And even more importantly, you are worth it!

Mindful Monday: Make Something

 

Happy 2023! 

Wishing you a year where you remember each and every day that ...

You make kids feel safe. 

You make kids smile. 

You make kids feel seen.

And most importantly, you make a difference. 

And when you have an "off" day, and just not feeling it, know that...

When you make mistakes, you are showing what determination looks like. 

When you make yourself a priority, you are showing your self worth. 

When you make it a point to apologize, you are showing how to push forward.

Here's to making all 365 days count in both big amazing ways and in a multitude of small and equally meaningful ways.