Self-replenishment matters. Today it is understood how important it is to keep ourselves hydrated with water. If we do not do so, there can be serious health consequences. I feel the same is true of replenishing oneself with good thoughts and messages. I recently coauthored a book with my good friend Dr. Janet Pilcher. The book is called The Extraordinary Gift: Our Teachers.
The idea for the book came from a previous book of mine titled The Calling: Why Healthcare Is So Special. The idea is that people are called to the role they have, from work to community to family. There are some roles in which a person gets positive feedback quickly. For example, I recently experienced a herniated disc. I thanked a variety of people who provided me with care. The feedback took place immediately.
What about those people who do not receive instant feedback? There are roles in which people make a tremendous difference but do not hear a thank-you right away or, in some cases, ever. Teachers and others in education fit in this category. In my books and talks, I often share how my third-grade teacher, Mrs. James, impacted my life in a very positive way. I was never able to share with her the impact she made. I did not even realize it until many years later.
My message here is twofold. One, a person must at times replenish themselves. It is how we keep doing the work we are called to do. Two, please take time to thank teachers and others in the classroom.
A few tips:
- For self-replenishment, I suggest taking time each morning to write down three things for which you are grateful. It wires the brain in a positive way. It is impossible not to feel good when one has a heart full of gratitude.
- Use the words “get to” versus “have to” or “got to.” This also shifts how we think about our jobs and lives. For example, a teacher might say, “I get to impact 25 children in a positive way.”
- Keep positive letters, messages, photos, etc. and revisit them when needed. I was speaking at a children’s hospital. When I was finished, a physician invited me to come to her office. She shared that sometimes she is sad because at the hospital there are times they cannot heal a child. She opened the drawer of her desk and showed me letters she has received from parents. During these tough times, she reads these letters. Take time to read letters, emails, and other positive messages when your spirits need a lift.
- Please take time to thank people who make a difference in your life. If you have a child or grandchild in school, take time to thank their teachers. Write a note. Dr. Pilcher’s and my book is meant to be a way to thank educators. The Extraordinary Gift: Our Teachersis available for pre-order at StuderEducation.com/Books/. I receive no compensation for this book. All funds go toward helping schools be the best they can be.
Do not underestimate the positive difference you make. And be a person who reminds others of their impact as well. Ram Dass said, “We’re all just walking each other home.” Let’s do what we can to replenish ourselves and others along the path.
