Mindfulness Blog for Educators: Curiosity Is Your Superpower.

Yes! Our brains are wired to ruminate on the past and future. This can go into overdrive when considering the students, families, and colleagues we work with each day.

The human me can struggle to let go of grudges and to not sail myself into retirement when there are years to go.

Still, we can be skillful in investigating our thoughts and be nonreactive while doing so.

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Curiosity allows us to examine the flow of thoughts in our mind without judgment.

We explore. We investigate.

You really can hit the pause button the moment you realize you are caught in the loop of reoccurring thoughts. Curiosity helps us not get caught in the web of our negative storylines around past and future events.

We can learn about our habits and tendencies while working in/for schools. We notice and move our attention elsewhere when the looping of thoughts dominating our mind come calling yet again.

You know. "How could that person..." or "Next time, I am going to say...". Whew!

We can employ curiosity to reset into more skillful thinking and then doing.

Here are our Top 3 Tips towards curiosity. Just for you!

Tip #1 - Your Senses Can Unlock Curiosity

All the senses are ideal for employing curiosity in its verb form. We are doing it. We are being curious and non-judgmental about what is right in front of us in the moment. Try practicing curiosity using sight, hearing, touch, taste, and smell. There are so many options to choose from each day. How Fun!

A cup of coffee or cocoa comes alive when you lean into the warmth, smell, and taste of the whole experience. The sun bathes you in its shine and offers you an instant mood booster. At school, this might be soft music playing in the background or taking the time you deserve to taste the sandwich you packed for lunch.

See how close you can get to these sensory experiences. When you mind wanders, gently bring it back to focusing on your point of curiosity.

Tip #1 is vital for helping you ground and regulate yourself when starting to feel upset or anxious.

Tip #2 - Curiosity Creates Joy in Our Lives.

A curious mind makes every day and any moment bright and playful. A blue sky, a soothing breeze, or birds singing are options to focus on when out and about. Flowers in a vase, a picture of a loved one, or a warm crackling fire offer us much to take in and explore while inside.

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Curiosity about the lives and success of others build social connections at work. We ask questions and pay attention to their interests and skills. In turn, we create and nurture a professional community based on mutual support and collegiality.

This brings joy to our workday, which is so important during these difficult times. Give it a try!

“Life must be lived and curiosity kept alive.”

- Eleanor Roosevelt

Tip #3 - Listen with Curious Attention.

Curious attention is a hard one for me at times. I get filled up with what I am going to say next or insistent that my next thought matters most. One of my intentions for this new year is to invite in a curious and attentive state of mind, especially in meetings. This means listening fully. I will do my best to refrain from judgment and realize that sometimes "I just don't know".

This might also require some slow breathing. Wish me luck.

Give curiosity a try!

There are so many benefits for educators/providers when curiosity comes alive during the school day. Amy reminds us that "when we are curious and reflect on how we are feeling in the moment, we are able to tap into what we need and what we are able to give."

SWW Practice Challenge: When and where could you use a dose of curious attention as you work with students and families? Make a plan. See what resonates when you give it a try.

Our Journey Together...

You matter and make a difference. You do! These are not easy times for educators/providers. There is much on our plates. Let's keep doing this important work together. We need each other.

We are so grateful to be a part of your practice.

Enjoy the ride...

Greg & Amy

Check out our Mindful Educator Resource Guide! We Got You! www.ServeWithWisdom.com.