From 6 Dimensions of Wellness to Supercharging Educator Self-Care

The Importance of “Being Present”

“If you are depressed you are living in the past. If you are anxious you are living in the future. If you are at peace you are living in the present.”
— Lao Tzu

I like to consider this quote during times of immense anxiety or stress. Stress and anxiety are common for everyone, but educators are particularly impacted as we manage the myriad needs of our students. This year, our stress is compounded by the return to in-person learning and the impacts of virtual learning.

To help you “be present,” below I’ve included 2 parts you can focus on as well as a goal-setting workbook.

Part I: 6 Dimensions of Wellness

During these trying times, it is important to take note of the 6 Dimensions of Wellness. 

  1. Occupational

  2. Spiritual

  3. Emotional

  4. Intellectual

  5. Social

  6. Physical 

Considering the 6 Dimensions of Wellness:

  1. In which dimension are you currently excelling? How?

  2. Which dimension is the most difficult? Why?

Part II: Self-Care Intentions

It is important that we make self-care a priority. We cannot give our best for our families, friends, and students if we are not well. Setting goals will allow you to be intentional about your self-care and wellness. Consider in which dimension you are having the most difficulty, what can you do each day, week, and month to improve your wellness. 

  1. Begin with a monthly self-care goal. How will you restore EACH dimension of your self-care each month?

  2. Transition into a weekly goal.

  3. Draft a DAILY goal.

Now that you have set your goals, you can commit to your own wellness and live in the moment. Take time to appreciate yourself and the positive aspects of your life right now. 

How will you change your intentions today? Use the goal-setting workbook below to motivate you and keep you focused on achieving your goals.

View and Download the Goal Setting Workbook!

Back to “The EdConnector” blog home

This post is part of the series, “May-tired Already” dedicated to providing educators practical strategies to re-energize and refresh for the long year ahead. To see all parts of the series, go here.

Jorden Jones