JumpStart National Beverage Day (5/6/24)

Big Idea:  Burnout. It's a word thrown around so often it can lose its meaning. But for educators during the last month of school, burnout is a very real threat. We push ourselves to the limit, and when we inevitably hit a wall, frustration sets in. But what if the key to overcoming burnout wasn't about pushing harder, but about accepting our limitations?

Acceptance doesn't mean giving up. It means acknowledging that we can't control everything. There will be setbacks, there will be days when we fall short. Accepting this reality takes the pressure off and allows us to focus on what we can control: our effort, our attitude, and our ability to learn from mistakes.

Here's how acceptance becomes a powerful tool:

• Reduced Stress: By accepting what's outside our control, we free ourselves from the constant worry and frustration that fuels burnout.
• Self-Compassion: Accepting our imperfections allows us to be kinder to ourselves. We can forgive ourselves for missteps and move forward.
• Focus on Progress: When we accept our current state, we can celebrate small wins and focus on making gradual improvements.

Acceptance isn't about resignation. It's about creating a space for growth. By acknowledging our limitations, we can find the strength to move forward, embrace challenges, and build resilience against burnout. So next time you feel the pressure building, take a deep breath and accept that it's okay not to be perfect. It might just be the secret weapon you need to reignite your passion and conquer burnout.

This Week, Try This:  Every day this week during a break from kids, take 30 seconds and do this: 1) Sit in silence, perhaps with your eyes closed, for three breath cycles. 2) Take a deep breath in through your nose, and on the exhale, say out loud “I cannot fix everything.  It’s OK that today isn’t a 100. I will do my best in each moment and let the rest go.” 3) Let that mantra sink in and resonate with you for three more breaths, open your eyes if they’re closed, and return to your day with a smile.

Quote:  "My happiness grows in direct proportion to my acceptance." (Michael J. Fox)

Educator Resource:  
Mindfulness BINGO is here for Mindful May (with a prize!) from the Coalition of Schools Educating Mindfully.  Open to everyone.  

• ALL of our members have already been entered for a chance to win!
• Plus, with each event, circle, and tag on social media, we will add your name again to our list! If you get a BINGO, let us know and we will add your name AGAIN!
• AND for anyone who is not a member, yet, you can play to win, too!
• At the end of the month, we will contact the winner!
• Email Hello@EducatingMindfully with any questions. Let's have some fun together!

More Information  If you are part of the Area 5 SEL Hub (ROEs 3, 40, 41, 45, and 50), you are already a member.  Details here.  Also ROEs 39 & 4 have group membership.

Dad Joke:  My wife asked me why I wanted to be cremated.  I replied that it was my last chance to have a smoking hot body.
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Thanks for reading! Today’s Dad Joke is sponsored by all of us who realized (and accepted!) that warmer weather means swimsuit season is, well, basically here, and my post-holiday diet and exercise regimen might just have to start after Memorial Day.  :)
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~Matt Weld, SEL Coach