Caring for the Caretaker 3

Tools to stay loose, flexible, creative, and

positive when we take ourselves too seriously

Draw the line: The last ten to fifteen minutes of the work day can be spent in quiet reflection or assessment, emotional showering, stress reduction or physical fitness activity or you could visit the “can do” room.

The “Can Do” Room: In every school I have worked in, I can find a room where all there is, are negative conversations. What’s wrong in the building? Who’s not doing their job? Complaints and moans. All too often, it is in the faculty lounge. I propose that the teaching staff or caring team create a “Can Do” room or at least a ”Can Do” time.

Only plus conversations: Speak only of what’s right with the building. Speak only of who’s doing a great job. Speak only of positive experiences. The room could be filled with human resource information, books, video and audio tapes, articles; anything on the courage, richness and joy of life and humanity. Also, be sure to include some materials, both written and visual, on laughter and humor. Norman Cousins, in his book “Anatomy of An Illness” taught us the healing power of laughter.

Mini Vacations: Learn to go on a mini-vacation. Everyday, any time of the day, we can escape and renew ourselves. Traditionally, there is prayer, meditation, or sharing your feelings with a trusted friend.

Touchstones: Keep handy little stones, shells or symbols of a loved one and/or a lovely time that returns when we hold the object. Jim Henson’s Fraggles believe that a pebble increases in value every time we pass it on. What can you pass on today?