How to Find Direction and Inner Peace as a Teacher

Day 13: Self-Appreciation

The last few days of this challenge are geared toward YOU and how you are taking care of yourself. Yes, the lesson plans, phone calls home, grading, copying, organizing will still be there, but to sustain in this work, we can’t allow our cups to empty.

Today, think of everything you are proud of in terms of your life. This can be in the classroom our outside of the classroom. Regardless, you are doing so many great things and you should be proud of you. It amazes me that we as educators do this for our students all of the time asking them to name something they are proud of themselves. I have seen the videos and Pinterest classrooms of people holding up mirrors for their students and students providing positive messages to themselves, however how often are we as educators looking in the mirror and saying these messages to ourselves? I know I don’t nearly enough. But why not? If we know it is important for our students, shouldn’t it be just as important for us?

Shortly before I was about to turn 40, I was sitting in a yoga studio waiting for class to begin. I happened to be sitting in the front row, where I was directly in front of the mirror. Looking at myself, I sat in a moment of gratitude for myself. Overcome with emotion, I actually, smiled and in my mind told myself, “I love you.” For some that might sound ridiculous but I kid you not, it was one of the most profound moments I have ever had. That day, it was like I was entering into a new relationship. You know, the joy, on cloud 9 feelings you get when you take that next step in a relationship. Ever since that day, I have had a new found respect for myself. While I don’t always remember to tell myself, “I love you,” I sure as heck appreciate myself every day, knowing that no day is perfect but accepting all that I have tried to do and create.

Today, look in the mirror, journal, write yourself a note and let yourself know how proud you are of YOU; how excited you are about all that you are accomplishing. Maybe even let yourself know, “You love you!”

Be proud. The work is hard. You are doing it beautifully!

Facebook Community Action Step:

Come back to the community and share: One thing you are proud of accomplishing!