As a teacher I have faced many tests and trials on my teaching journey. Sometimes these experiences have been brief and at other times they have taken quite a while to overcome. But I choose to view these events and experiences as merely challenges to help me get stronger. This I feel is the key to a long and extremely fulfilling life for me as a teacher. And the same can be for you too.

Another key aspect of long term survival in the teaching game for me has been to also develop a better sense of perspective when viewing each challenge. This requires a fair bit of self reflection which can then allow me to take an objective viewpoint to enable me to see the hidden benefits within any particular situation.

As humans we tend to view most immediate tests and trials with trepidation and frustration. This is of course a natural response and I urge you especially as teachers and educators to look beyond that. Of course this takes dedication and practice but the rewards can be immensely beneficial to your desired outcome. This also does take a fair bit of mental and emotion discipline not to get caught up in the “small thinking” of a situation or challenge. Remember that these experiences are always there to help you to grow and to develop rather than to hinder you. Avoid the “why me?” attitude that seems to pervade every school and learning institution across the land.

And to add the this I have just finished reading the book “The Law of Attraction” by Esther and Jerry Hicks. The soul aim of this book is to enable individuals and in our case teachers to create the best experiences and outcomes for ourselves and our students.

I also like to write my challenges out on paper to give you a clearer view of them. Then I write down what options I have to overcome them, whilst weighing up the positives and the negatives. If I find myself without any clear options (or none that seem immediately plausible) I meditate on these options and ask my higher self to give me more information. And believe me, I know it’s always there, I just need to find it within myself. I also find it useful to view my challenges like a small child would. To try to see it through unbiased eyes that can enable me to have a clearer view of any new possibilities. 

I invite you to rise to the challenge of pushing through your teaching tests and trials and meeting your these head on. I guarantee you it will be worth it!