Mindful Summer Shifts

Seasonal changes offer us an opportunity to regroup and make mindful shifts that can rejuvenate and restore us with each one. What is Mindfulness? It is the practice of purposely focusing attention on the present moment—including sensations, thoughts, and emotions—with openness and without judgment. It reduces stress, boosts mental well-being, and improves physical health. Basically, it's paying attention. Often, we act by default and/or automation. But being more intentional about what we are thinking and doing can be a game-changer. Your mindful summer begins here!

Start by removing your foot from the personal pressure pedal. "Children are not things to be molded but people to be unfolded," Jess Lair. So, take the pressure off. A heavenly master craftsman is sculpting these futures. Make no mistake, our efforts matter – a LOT.  But take the advice we so often give our students: do your best and give God the rest.  

Second, take a moment to reflect on your work and what you were able to accomplish this school year using the 3-C’s method from Dr. Ron Moss.

The 3-C's

1. What to continue?  What went so well that it belongs on your year-end brag sheet? What can continue to be strengthened? 

2. What to change?  What did not work for you this year? What do you need to either delete or revamp how you approach it?

3. What to challenge? Where do you need to press in and challenge yourself or your students to grow? What is an area where you can reach outside your comfort zone? Is there something that God is nudging you towards, even if uncomfortable?

Setting Mindful Intentions

Finally, take a mindful look at the summer months before they get here. Most educators

have some time off, providing the perfect time to reflect and recharge. Don’t let this opportunity pass you by. Take time to thoughtfully consider what lies ahead and mindfully craft the outcomes you desire with these ideas:

1. Make a summer intentions list. Let's not call it a “to-do list”. To-dos imply “musts” and, if undone, can result in guilt-related stress. Intentions, on the other hand, provide flexibility that allows one to shift priorities as needed. With that said, a good intentions list could include some to-don'ts.  A “to-don’ts list” implies standards you have set that can be empowering and confidence-building.

   
   

   This list should include a balance of mindless activities that are relaxing and fun, and productive activities of your choosing that will give you a sense of fulfillment and satisfaction when you look back on how you spent your summer days.

   
   

   Set your intentions, write them down, and tell a friend. These are proven measures that increase success.

   
   

2. Take time to declutter and purge. This includes your inbox, "things" that collect dust, and things you haven’t used. Studies show that decluttering can reduce stress, improve focus, and contribute to overall well-being by establishing control over one's environment. However, there's a fine line between too much and too little. I find that looking at many of my things brings me joy, either because their beauty feeds my soul or the memories they bring, warm my heart. So, what I have found helpful is to rotate these items with each season.

   
   

   Ultimately, decluttering is about cultivating the kind of environment you desire around you, including relationships, activities, and surroundings. Choose wisely.

   
   

3. Take a fresh look at your self-care and do something that brings you joy each day.

   School days can dull our senses. It’s important to rest and invest in ourselves in fresh ways. This starts with being still, as shared in Psalm 46:10, where we are encouraged to recognize God's presence and power rather than be anxious about the future. It is in moments of stillness that we can feel God’s presence and hear His voice more clearly as we seek to renew our minds and bodies. This puts us in the best position to consider where to invest our precious time and efforts.

   One of the best investments we can make is in resources that support personal growth and inspiration, which can reignite creativity and fuel passions, such as a class, book, or lessons to learn something new. Even the seemingly smallest choices can make a difference, such as listening to soothing music as you get ready in the morning, stretching in bed as you wake, or taking a 15-minute warm soaking bath at the end of the day.

   Whatever you choose, add it to your rhythm. Repetition will fill your emotional bank account before you know it.  LR Knost said, “Taking care of yourself doesn’t mean ME first, it means me TOO.” This is called proactive stress management, and if we don’t take time to refill our cups, we can no longer pour from them.  

You “show up” for so many people. Take time to show up for yourself this summer with intention. Choose a summer rhythm and stay mindfully as close to it as possible. Remember those small, positive actions, repeated consistently, shape our future.

May the God of peace sanctify you entirely, and may your spirit, soul, and body be kept sound and blameless at the coming of our Lord Jesus Christ. ~ I Thessalonians 5:23

Their future – your influence – our tools! Want to know more?

Prep4Success Curriculum is specifically designed to provide you with the tools to connect to your students as you explore timely, important developmental topics together. You can inspire; you just need the right tools. Join us!