During the first staff wellbeing workshop, I ask the question of the staff
“What would you like more of to increase your happiness?”
In groups, they brainstorm ideas. It is very humbling that a majority of the answers are more emotionally connected than tangible assets.
Of course, there are suggestions of more time, holidays, pay, budget and even a barista, but they realise these are out of their control.
What is in their control is the way they interact with each other and themselves.
The ideas are collated on the white board and invariably everyone acknowledges the overlap of positive feelings.
Then the journey begins.
Working towards these articulated goals.
Knowing that we are all united in each other’s well being and how individually we can make a difference.
However, it is not to say these actions aren’t happening in a school. It would be nice if there was more of it.
It is a heightened awareness of what makes us happier.
Below is a collection of the ideas from various schools.
Positive students
Clarity
Affirmation
Acknowledgement
Encouragement
Replace negative with positive
Self-care
Focus
Communication
Respect
Fun
Collegiality
Smiles
Empathy
Happy greetings
Sharing
Pastoral care
Random Acts of Kindness
Belief
Staff attendance at social gatherings
Confidence support
Risk taking with support
Action
Interpersonal relationships
Listening
Actively engaged
Behaviour management
Solutions focused
Challenge your staff
Circulate this blog post to staff and ask them to circle what they want more of, if any. Add to the above list if necessary.
Collate the answers and discuss at the next staff gathering.
Comments