In an article entitled “A Sense of Belonging Starts with Self-Acceptance,” DDS Dobson-Smith, a renowned author, coach, and consultant specialising in leadership and personal development, explores the transformative power of self-acceptance. The author dives into how our need to be liked and accepted often makes us change our behaviours, especially in social and work settings. This can be tiring and unhelpful for our mental health. Real belonging starts with self-acceptance—a game-changer for us as we prepare for a new school year.
Understanding Self-Acceptance
Self-acceptance means recognising and embracing all parts of ourselves, both the good and the not-so-good. It’s about valuing who we are without needing others’ approval. This is key to building resilience and emotional stability, which are crucial for handling the demands of teaching.
Emotional Agility: Psychologist Susan David talks about emotional agility—facing our emotions with curiosity and compassion. This means accepting negative emotions as part of life, which can boost mental well-being and help prevent burnout.
Combating Imposter Syndrome: Many of us feel like imposters, thinking we’re frauds despite our successes. This comes from internal and societal pressures. By practising self-acceptance, we can break down these barriers and build a more confident, authentic self.
1. Mindful Self-Reflection
Reflecting on our thoughts and feelings can boost self-awareness. Try mindfulness practices like meditation and journaling to connect with yourself and recognise your worth.
Focused Breathing: Deep, conscious breathing can help manage stress and clear your mind. It’s a simple way to ground yourself, especially before starting a class.
2. Environment Audit
Assessing our environment is crucial for self-acceptance. Surrounding ourselves with supportive influences can counteract negative societal messages.
Life Audit: Evaluate the books, media, and social interactions that shape your self-perception. Seek out positive, empowering resources that validate your identity and experiences. Creating a supportive network among your colleagues can be a great start.
3. Continuous Learning and Unlearning
Educating ourselves about personal and societal biases is an ongoing process. Understanding the cultural contexts that shape self-perception helps in unlearning harmful beliefs.
Educational Resources: Engage with materials like podcasts (“Seeing White,” “Hidden Brain”), books, and articles that address self-acceptance and systemic biases, offering valuable insights for personal growth. These can also be great discussion topics for professional development sessions.
4. Practicing Self-Compassion
Treating ourselves with the same kindness we’d offer a friend can reduce self-criticism and promote emotional healing.
Be Kind to Yourself: Remember, the journey to self-acceptance is challenging and requires patience. Embrace your flaws and celebrate your strengths—they’re all part of who you are. Every teacher faces tough days, and it’s okay to seek support when needed.
As September approaches and you gear up for the new academic year, embracing self-acceptance can be a powerful strategy for enhancing our mental health and professional effectiveness. By cultivating emotional agility, combating imposter syndrome, and creating supportive environments, we can foster a deeper sense of belonging and self-worth. This holistic approach benefits not only our wellbeing but also contributes to a more positive and inclusive environment for everyone.
Here’s to a summer embracing the power of self-acceptance and a fantastic start to the new term!
