Last school year was a very challenging school year for me, the hardest I’ve experienced. This school year, I was challenged with a new task/position and delighted was not on the list of emotions I felt at the time. The first few weeks I struggled. I grappled with lesson plans, instruction, the adjustments in timing and scheduling, meeting new kids, etc.

We are now a full nine weeks into school and I’ve realized how my thoughts and words changed my life. While I haven’t fully acclimated to my position, I’ve tried to highlight the good things that happen everyday. I started telling people why the position is a better fit and that is allowing me to grow in my season of being uncomfortable. Of course, quotes that apply to me during my unique seasons keep me optimistic. Some of the quotes that are visible to both me and my students are below.

1. “Words can inspire and words can destroy. Choose yours well.” – Robin Sharra
2. “Handle them carefully, for words have more power than atom bombs.” – Pearl Strachan Hurd
3. “But if thought corrupts language, language can also corrupt thought.” – George Orwele
4. Language creates reality. Words have power. Speak always to create joy.” – Deepak Chopra
5. “There is power in words. What you see is what you get.” – Zig Ziglar

As I move throughout each day, my goal is to change my mindset and my words. Hopefully, this will encourage those around me to change as well. I’ve found the positive in having a modified schedule. While I thought the sessions was too short to fully assess a students’ understanding, I know realize it’s enough time to teach, assess and by the time the class ends the students have reached their frustration level. This gives them time to walk away and return the next day with an understanding of what’s to come. I now have an opportunity to work with students face to face that I had only encountered online. I get to meet personalities versus people. I can truly say I enjoy my babies. The lesson plans are actually scripted if I read between ALLLLLL the lines but half of my work is done. Because I’ve changed my words, I’m not as exhausted at the end of the day and I can focus on my own well being.