Self-Care and Mental Health

Planning for Ease, Flow, Success and Fulfillment in 2024

As classes, exams, papers, and projects come to their conclusion this month, students are "running on fumes" as the saying goes -- and they are not the only ones. Education is a service profession, and faculty and staff have been serving up unprecedented amounts of support in this moment. Increased intensity is normal for the end of a semester, but right now the crises, conflicts, and instability on national and international levels are draining energy and cognitive bandwidth for students and educators alike.

Understandably, educators put students first this time of year. Winter break holds an opportunity to shift the focus back inward, to whatever extent you are able. Take care of yourself so that you can stay strong in your personal and professional challenges and be there for all who rely on you. Ask yourself questions like these:

• When can I set aside an hour of my time today (or any day over the winter break) to restore?

• If I had no responsibilities over this break, how would I spend my time? What portion of that imaginary plan can I execute in my real life right now?

• What do I perceive as an obligation over the next few weeks that is actually optional -- and how might it serve me to opt out?

• How would I like to feel, and what (activities, choices, people, foods, music, and so on) can bring me to that desired emotional state? 

Filling up your professional development cup is a wonderful way to care for yourself as 2024 begins. Sign up for the January coaching class and for Spring Certification starting the end of January.

Inclusive Coaching Class

January 8, 10, and 12

(additional dates below)