This academic year (2023-24) we have become a 'Kindness Matters School'. We had a visit from Kindness Coach John Magee in November who delivered an inspirational assembly. We have  proceeded to do a '30 Day Kindness Challenge'. 

Below are the weekly kindness challenges we took part in to spread kindness around school and in the wider community. 

As a Kindness Matters School, John Magee provides us with a wealth of resources to promote kindness. 

For Autumn 1, we are focusing on becoming rich in kindness
by looking after ourselves.
 

Becoming rich in kindness by looking after yourself is the foundation on which everything else is built and is an essential aspect of self-care and overall wellbeing. It involves treating yourself with the same compassion, empathy, and understanding you would offer to a friend or loved one.

Teaching is a seriously demanding profession. You need to look after yourselves to give you the energy to support your school and pupils. Here are some ways to practice kindness to yourself:

Practice Self-Compassion

Treat yourself with the kindness and understanding you would offer a friend. Be gentle with yourself when you make mistakes or face challenges; remember, "you are always doing your best until you find a better way of doing things."

 

Positive Self-Talk

Pay attention to your inner dialogue. Replace self-criticism with positive and affirming self-talk by practising my many affirmations. Challenge negative thoughts and replace them with more balanced or supportive affirmations.

 

Set Realistic Expectations

Do your best not to set unrealistic or overly high standards for yourself. Be aware of your limitations and prioritize achievable goals.

Self-Care

Prioritise self-care activities with time-blocking your calendar and nurture your physical, mental, and emotional wellbeing. This can include activities like exercise, meditation, reading, or taking a relaxing bath.

 

Healthy Boundaries

Set healthy, benevolent boundaries to protect your time and energy. Don't overcommit or overextend yourself. Rest is essential – don’t feel guilty about resting.

 

Celebrate Achievements

Acknowledge and celebrate your accomplishments, no matter how small they may seem. Give yourself credit for your efforts and successes.

 

Forgive Yourself

Understand that making mistakes is a part of being human and is one of the most significant ways to learn from our choices. Forgive yourself when you make errors (we all make them) learn from them, and move on.

 

Mindfulness and Self-Awareness

Practice mindfulness to be in tune with your thoughts and emotions. Self-awareness can help you identify areas where you need more self-kindness.

 

Surround Yourself with Positivity

Surround yourself with positive influences, supportive people, and environments that uplift you. Podcasts, YouTube, Books, Friends, Box Sets that make you feel good after listening or watching.

 

Self-Compliments

Give yourself compliments and express self-appreciation regularly. Acknowledge your strengths and positive qualities. I love to go to the mirror and say to myself..."John, what can I do today to love you more than yesterday." Mirror Work is powerful stuff, give it a go and praise yourself, because you are worthy of it all, you really are!

 

Gratitude

Practice gratitude by reflecting on the things you're thankful for in your life. This can help you focus on the positive aspects of your journey. (Especially the little things)

 

Treat Yourself

Occasionally, indulge in treats or small rewards that make you feel good and appreciated. This can be as simple as enjoying a favourite dessert or taking a day off for self-care.

 

Seek Help When Needed

Don't hesitate to seek help or support when facing challenges or struggling emotionally. Reach out to friends, family, or professionals when necessary.

 

Learn to Say "No"

It's okay to decline additional responsibilities or commitments when you feel overwhelmed or need a break.

 

Self-Reflection

Take time for self-reflection to understand your needs, desires, and values. This can help you make choices that align with your authentic self.

Being kind to yourself is an ongoing process, and it's a vital part of maintaining good mental and emotional health. Remember that self-compassion and self-kindness are not signs of weakness but signs of strength and resilience. It allows you to better care for yourself and, in turn, be more effective and compassionate in your relationships with others.