After coming through another very challenging year, it is important to celebrate yourself and recognize your successes, whether large or small.

Perspective is key

In our professional and personal lives, failure, setbacks and disappointments will sometimes happen. How we view setbacks affects how we move forward. We can focus on what was most disturbing or we can choose to see how much strength and resilience it has brought out in all of us.

Celebrate small wins

While it is important to set big goals and have high aspirations for ourselves and our students, remember that these are not achieved overnight. If we focus only on goals, we can miss the beauty of small victories. If you aspire to create an equitable classroom and you don’t feel you have achieved this goal, take a moment to recognize minor improvements that are steps along the way. You are modeling the value of inclusivity for the class to work toward.

Tips

• Reflect on your progress and identify your successes, no matter how small.
• Reward yourself for each achievement.
• Give yourself the grace to fail.
• Challenge yourself to see the silver lining: When your intentions are good, honor them!

Re-energize yourself this summer

• Smile more often. Studies show that the simple act of smiling improves how you feel.
• Seek the company of people who bring you joy.
• Listen to things you find uplifting, whether music, a podcast or poetry.
• Spend time in nature.
• Avoid having the same negative thoughts: Distract yourself by engaging in something you enjoy. Light a candle, take a quick walk, exercise or FaceTime a friend.

For additional resources, visit www.uft.org/your-well-being.