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00:00:00 --> 00:00:05 Welcome to your Morning Boost, your daily leadership advice to help you lead your school community.
00:00:05 --> 00:00:09 Brought to you by AWB Education and sponsored by Grundmeyer Leader Services,
00:00:10 --> 00:00:14 where together we are transforming education, one leader at a time.
00:00:14 --> 00:00:19 Good morning, leaders, and welcome to another Wellness Wednesday here on your Morning Boost.
00:00:20 --> 00:00:25 Happy June 11th. On this day, we also celebrate National Corn on the Cob Day,
00:00:25 --> 00:00:29 a summery treat to remind us of brighter, more relaxing days ahead.
00:00:29 --> 00:00:33 I'm Jess Hansen, and I'm really excited to be joining you each day this week
00:00:33 --> 00:00:35 as a new contributor with AWB Education.
00:00:36 --> 00:00:40 Today, our focus is squarely on you and your mental health.
00:00:40 --> 00:00:45 As school leaders, you are constantly pouring into others, managing countless
00:00:45 --> 00:00:48 responsibilities, and often putting your own well-being on the back burner.
00:00:49 --> 00:00:52 But to lead effectively, you need to be at your best.
00:00:52 --> 00:00:58 And that means intentionally carving out time to recharge and refocus your own mental health.
00:00:59 --> 00:01:03 We'll be discussing practical, actionable strategies to help you prioritize
00:01:03 --> 00:01:08 self-care, even in the busiest of seasons, ensuring you remain resilient and
00:01:08 --> 00:01:10 energized for the vital work you do.
00:01:13 --> 00:01:17 Let's dive into some ways you can prioritize your mental health as a school leader.
00:01:18 --> 00:01:21 First, schedule me time deliberately.
00:01:22 --> 00:01:25 Don't wait for free time to appear. Schedule it into your calendar,
00:01:25 --> 00:01:28 just like you would any other important meeting. For example,
00:01:29 --> 00:01:33 block out 30 minutes each day for a walk, reading, or simply quiet reflection.
00:01:33 --> 00:01:35 Make it non-negotiable.
00:01:36 --> 00:01:41 I can tell you, I once became so strict about my daily 20-minute silent coffee
00:01:41 --> 00:01:45 break and the dramatic improvement in my stress levels was absolutely undeniable.
00:01:45 --> 00:01:46 It really helped me reset.
00:01:47 --> 00:01:49 Next, practice mindful moments.
00:01:50 --> 00:01:53 Even short bursts of mindfulness can make a big difference.
00:01:53 --> 00:01:58 Take a few deep breaths, focus on your senses, or simply be present in the moment.
00:01:59 --> 00:02:03 Before a challenging meeting, try taking two minutes to close your eyes and
00:02:03 --> 00:02:04 focus on your breathing.
00:02:04 --> 00:02:08 Research from the American Psychological Association suggests that mindfulness
00:02:08 --> 00:02:12 practices can reduce stress and improve emotional regulation.
00:02:13 --> 00:02:16 Then, set boundaries and stick to them.
00:02:16 --> 00:02:19 Learn to say no when necessary and
00:02:19 --> 00:02:22 establish clear boundaries between your professional and personal life.
00:02:23 --> 00:02:27 For instance, commit to not checking emails after a certain hour or on weekends,
00:02:28 --> 00:02:29 unless it's a true emergency.
00:02:30 --> 00:02:33 Setting a firm boundary about my work emails after 6 p.m.
00:02:33 --> 00:02:37 Initially felt really difficult, but it ultimately led to so much more balance
00:02:37 --> 00:02:38 and peace in my evenings.
00:02:39 --> 00:02:43 Also, cultivate a support network. Connect with other leaders,
00:02:43 --> 00:02:47 mentors, or trusted friends who understand the unique challenges of your role.
00:02:48 --> 00:02:53 Sharing experiences and seeking advice can be incredibly validating and helpful. Thank you.
00:02:54 --> 00:02:58 You might join a professional learning community for school leaders or set up
00:02:58 --> 00:02:59 regular informal check-ins with a colleague.
00:03:00 --> 00:03:04 Finally, prioritize sleep, nutrition, and movement.
00:03:04 --> 00:03:08 These foundational elements are often the first to go when stress levels are
00:03:08 --> 00:03:11 high, but they are crucial for mental resilience.
00:03:12 --> 00:03:17 Aim for consistent sleep, plan healthy meals, and incorporate some form of physical
00:03:17 --> 00:03:19 activity into your daily routine.
00:03:24 --> 00:03:28 Remember, prioritizing your mental health involves deliberately scheduling me
00:03:28 --> 00:03:32 time, practicing mindful moments, setting firm boundaries,
00:03:32 --> 00:03:36 cultivating a strong support network, and focusing on foundational elements
00:03:36 --> 00:03:39 like sleep, nutrition, and movement.
00:03:39 --> 00:03:44 Your well-being isn't a luxury. It's a necessity for effective leadership.
00:03:44 --> 00:03:49 Remember the airplane safety instruction. Put on your own oxygen mask before assisting others.
00:03:50 --> 00:03:53 It's the same in leadership. When you are recharged and refocus,
00:03:54 --> 00:03:59 you show up as a more resilient, empathetic, and effective leader for your students and staff.
00:04:00 --> 00:04:05 You're doing amazing work. Make sure you're taking care of the most important asset, you.
00:04:06 --> 00:04:11 Thanks for listening. I hope you have an amazing Wednesday, and thanks for joining me this week.
00:04:11 --> 00:04:15 I will talk with you again tomorrow. You have been listening to Your Morning
00:04:15 --> 00:04:19 Boost by AWB Education in partnership with Grundmeyer Leader Services.
00:04:20 --> 00:04:24 You can find out more about our services by clicking on the links in the description.
00:04:25 --> 00:04:29 Remember, you are doing this vital job that only a few can do.
00:04:30 --> 00:04:34 So until next time, thank you for your service to your community.