It goes without saying that this is a trying time for humanity. We are experiencing a rollercoaster of emotions right now, as we vacillate between feeling overwhelmed, angry, anxious, and heartbroken. There are no words to adequately describe the worldwide devastation that has taken place in recent months.
Despite this myriad of emotions, we teachers are working hard to stay afloat for our students. We give it our all day in and day out, whether we are in our physical classroom space or teaching through a computer screen. However, it goes without saying that virtual instruction has posed its own challenges. We can all agree that teaching virtually is not the same, nor will it ever be.
Amidst this "new normal," something that has brought me peace in addition to practicing yoga and meditation is self-reflection. We are trained to self-reflect as educators. However, our self-reflection does not need to focus solely on our identities as teachers. It does not always need to be about our methods, assessments, or activities. We can engage in powerful self-reflection as individuals.
Consider these points as you self-reflect:
Checking in on how YOU are doing is not selfish; it is necessary. As we move from one week to the next, focus on what has made you feel proud, or on what has brought a smile to your face. Try to create more of those moments. Identify your hopes for the following week. Brainstorm new (and more) ways to practice self-care. Do a little research and get inspired by a famous quote or saying. Make this your "weekly mantra." Hopefully, this weekly dose of self-reflection can help you cope during this tumultuous and uncertain time.
Continue to do good for others. Keep cherishing your loved ones and showing up with a smile for your students as you teach online. At the same time, remember that your personal wellness matters, too.
I hope you enjoy the weekly self-reflection template I made below. Make it a weekly (or daily) habit!
Sending you peace, positive vibes, and healing energy,
Elena
Despite this myriad of emotions, we teachers are working hard to stay afloat for our students. We give it our all day in and day out, whether we are in our physical classroom space or teaching through a computer screen. However, it goes without saying that virtual instruction has posed its own challenges. We can all agree that teaching virtually is not the same, nor will it ever be.
Amidst this "new normal," something that has brought me peace in addition to practicing yoga and meditation is self-reflection. We are trained to self-reflect as educators. However, our self-reflection does not need to focus solely on our identities as teachers. It does not always need to be about our methods, assessments, or activities. We can engage in powerful self-reflection as individuals.
Consider these points as you self-reflect:
- What made me proud this week?
- What made me smile?
- What do I hope for next week?
- How have I practiced self-care?
- A quote that speaks to me this week is...
Checking in on how YOU are doing is not selfish; it is necessary. As we move from one week to the next, focus on what has made you feel proud, or on what has brought a smile to your face. Try to create more of those moments. Identify your hopes for the following week. Brainstorm new (and more) ways to practice self-care. Do a little research and get inspired by a famous quote or saying. Make this your "weekly mantra." Hopefully, this weekly dose of self-reflection can help you cope during this tumultuous and uncertain time.
Continue to do good for others. Keep cherishing your loved ones and showing up with a smile for your students as you teach online. At the same time, remember that your personal wellness matters, too.
I hope you enjoy the weekly self-reflection template I made below. Make it a weekly (or daily) habit!
Sending you peace, positive vibes, and healing energy,
Elena