TL;DR: Start the school year by focusing on what could go right, instead of what could go wrong. Document moments when things went better than expected to combat negative thinking. Actively engage in positive thinking to feel more grounded and resilient. Here we are in early September. Some of us have been back at school for a few weeks and … Read More
Where Is the Hope?
TL;DR: Maintain August optimism all year with strategies to sustain hope and engagement. Asking “Where is the hope?” helps find positive aspects in challenging situations, shifting focus from negativity. Regularly asking about hopeful events helps maintain emotional engagement and resilience. In August, most educators feel things they don’t often feel in October or February: rested, balanced, optimistic, and hopeful. Wouldn’t … Read More
WHAT Are You Doing and HOW are You Doing?
TL;DR: Embrace the slower pace of summer to reflect on activities that bring joy and well-being. Catherine Price’s “3 W’s” strategy helps assess and optimize our time and activities for better satisfaction. Understanding what activities make us feel good now can help us prioritize them during busier times. It is July. The Saturday of summer. We finally arrived to the … Read More
What’s Your 7.4?
TL;DR: Embrace stillness to conserve and create energy for the busy fall ahead. Create a list of 7.4 realistic, measurable goals to balance relaxation and productivity. Encourage students and families to make their own lists to prioritize time and happiness. Happy June! We made it! It’s the middle of the calendar year and the end of the school year and … Read More
Calendar Non-Negotiables
TL;DR: Examining weekly, monthly, and yearly routines for happiness and well-being. Weekly: Carve out time for personal recharge and engage in meaningful activities like church. Yearly: Take a summer Facebook break for mental clarity and prioritize annual gatherings with loved ones for lasting joy. Calendar Non-Negotiables Back in April, we examined a few underwhelming routines I put in place every … Read More