Sandy has now gained some powerful insights and keys into self-care and renewal. One of the biggest insights is that teaching these keys to students can be one of the best ways for teachers to take care of themselves and renew their hope in making a difference with kids. Sandy--like most teachers--entered the profession to make a difference in the lives of each student, to excite them about learning, to help them be successful in life. Feelings of frustration, despair, anxiety, and anger have robbed Sandy of this goal. Sandy has realized, however, that the biggest key is to find ways to stay hopeful and excited about the teaching profession--even in the face of increased time demands and time shortages.
In talking with colleagues in similar settings, Sandy has
learned that involving the students in their own self-care and
renewal can be a dramatic way to free up teachers' time and personal
resources. Not only that, Sandy knows that students often have the
best insights for solving their own problems. Seeing students as
naturally motivated to learn when they are interested and see topics
as meaningful was helpful. Also helpful was realizing that students
want to have more choice and control in their lives and in their
learning. Helping students apply strategies for meeting their needs
also sends a message of trust and respect.
