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I wanted to take an opportunity to talk a little bit about my experience from last week’s graduate school summer intensive class. I learned a lot in so many ways! These lessons can ALL be applied to our lives as educators, as we move back into the school year.
LESSON #1: NEVER MAKE ASSUMPTIONS
I spent a good deal of time before this class worrying about what it was going to be like and how much work would be crammed into this one week. How was I going to get it all done?
Unfortunately, I ended up creating a story in my head about that, which led to increased anxiety.
What I should have done is simply taken a moment to let the experience of the week unfold. Because when I did, when I got there and settled into the class, things were so very different from what I expected.
Don’t we do that sometimes? We were missing information about something, and so we create a story based on our fears, projections, or assumptions and a lack of information. We could save ourselves and others a lot of time, energy, and perhaps heartache if we took the time to pause, ask questions, and/or trust that there is great potential that all will turn out okay.
LESSON #2: LEARNING HOW TO SUPPORT MYSELF
Throughout the week, there were some meals and snacks provided, which was fantastic, but I also needed to figure out what else I might need. What kinds of things did I need to have with me for comfort?
For example, anything that I might need in terms of books, journals and even clothing – to make sure that I would be comfortable in the classroom.
That was a reminder for me (and you!) to support ourselves as we enter this new school year:
- What do you need to ease back in and feel comfortable at school and in the classroom?
- What things do you need to have around to make every day be what you need it to be?
- What supports do you need to have around or set up with other people so that they are there when you need them?
LESSON #3: SEEING THE STRENGTH IN THE BARRIERS
In the class I took, we talked a lot about barriers, and how they can actually show us strengths that are within them…IF we look for them.
Possible situations that might feel challenging and seem like barriers to starting the new school year could be:
- A lot of changes in your school building or district.
- Teaching a different grade or content area.
- Getting used to a different administration.
- Anything else that might be happening for you.
As we move back into the school year, I invite you to reframe and look for strengths or growth areas beneath any real or perceived barriers you might be concerned about. Imagine the possibilities of how you could build something great out of what might seem like a setback. Even if what you gain is an opportunity to learn, grow, and get outside your comfort zone.
I want you to move back into the new school year with the greatest amount of ease.
Unsure how? Let’s find ways together, to help you support yourself and find the strength in any barriers you may face. Book a complimentary call and let’s chat!
