Mindful Awareness of Sociopolitical Aspects of Self

This element of self refers to the social groups we belong to and the impact they have on how we show up as leaders in the classroom. These social groups include race, gender, class, sexual orientation and the complexity of how these factors intersect. The influence of these factors can be subtle on the surface, yet profound in the ways that we interact with students, colleagues, and others in educational spaces. A 2008 study published in the journal Science looked into how simply holding a cup of coffee-warm, or cold impacted a person's perception. Results showed that individuals who held a warm cup of coffee prior to analyzing characters in a story perceived the individuals as warm-hearted. Conversely, individuals who held a cold cup of coffee perceived the same characters as more cold. The study went on to reveal that this temperature-dependent reaction was also correlated to study participants' behavior, such that those holding the warm cup of coffee engaged in more compassionate and giving behavior compared to those having held the cold cup of coffee.

Imagine the implications for our perceptions and behaviors if we, without a sense of compassionate awareness hold our way as being necessarily right or the best way. The opportunity for growth and cultivation of resilience comes in being empowered by a greater sense of awareness. Empowered by the willingness to see triggers as an opportunity to go inward.

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Breaking Free from Fear: Embracing Life in Fullness

The world has taken a fear pill. From the moment we are born, we are programmed with messages of caution: Be careful. Watch out. Prepare for the worst. These warnings are embedded into our operating system, shaping how we view the world. And let’s be clear—there are valid reasons for this. For those of us who grew up in environments where danger was tangible—where friends were in gangs, where survival required hypervigilance—being on guard was not just a habit; it was necessary. One of the things I am personally most grateful for is the nameless sacrifices my parents made to provide a better life for my brothers and me. They carried burdens we never had to hold, making choices that carved out possibilities we might never fully understand. Their preparedness and vigilance kept us safe. When Preparedness Becomes a Prison At some point, though, it bears questioning: When does preparedness—or the effort to control every possible outcome—get in the way of presence? This is not about d...

Taking Meaningful Breaks: Rest, Renew, & Recognize Transitions

Taking breaks often gets overlooked. In fact, it is so enculturated that we should always be busy that some jobs actually penalize employees if they are seen standing idle, or even having a seat. However, meaningful breaks are essential for maintaining our well-being, productivity, and mindfulness. Beyond their practical benefits, breaks have a deeper significance—one that connects us to the traditions of honoring transitions, ceremonies, and rites of passage, which we’ve largely lost touch with in modern culture. The Importance of Taking Breaks Breaks are not just pauses in our busy lives; they are opportunities to recharge, reflect, and reconnect with ourselves. They allow us to recognize and honor the natural transitions in our day, week, or life. Without regular breaks, we risk burnout, decreased productivity, and a decline in our overall health. Meaningful breaks help us stay balanced and maintain a sense of well-being while also recognizing the significance of moments ...

Practicing Mindfulness Is Simple as A-B-C

Mindfulness has become a buzzword in recent years, but at its core, it is a practice of being fully present in the moment, without judgment or distraction. I know, simple. But not easy because let's be real, judgement arises without trying and distractions abound! Imagine coasting along on the way to work, then all of a sudden there is a traffic delay. Or, in the case of being in "the city that never sleeps" you are delayed due to train traffic ahead. Insert distraction followed closely by his compadre, judgement. One simple, yet powerful framework for cultivating mindfulness in everyday life is something I've been calling the "ABC" practice: Awareness, Breath, Choice . These three components work together to help us stay grounded, manage stress, and respond to life's challenges with greater clarity and calm. Think about this as fundamental building blocks. The same way that letters combine to make words. Words come together to make sentences. Sent...

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