10 Affirmations Teachers Can Say Everyday

I have recently connected with an organization IPaintMyMind that supports art in the classroom and art teachers with resources to fulfill their work.  This reminded me that years ago, I wanted to be a classroom teacher.  I had so many teachers in my life that really influenced me and my education, I thought I would love to give that gift back to other generations.  With a degree in music, I ended up teaching K - 8th grade music.  It was HARD! There were so many other things to juggle as a teacher other than teaching the lesson of the day.  Ultimately I stepped away from that career path because I was so concerned about the stress I saw the students and teachers trying to manage.  I realized that I didn't want to teach quarter notes and the famous pieces of music by Bach or Mozart.  I wanted to help teachers and students discover tools they could use to have a better experience in the classroom.  That year of teaching was one of the factors that led me to my work today!  
As the school year continues to get its footing, all sorts of support is taking place to help students do their best and manage not only the work, but the stress of being a student.  But what about the teachers?  One of the most challenging stresses I remember as a teacher, was my own judgements about my efforts.  No matter how prepared I was, I wanted to do better, I wanted to give my all to my students.  This definitley made me prepared and ready to teach and I think be a great teacher.  However, I stressed myself out, my anxiety was way too high and I didn't have a great network of support.  The stress of our own thoughts and opinions is always something to watch regardless of our profession, but I thought I would offer 10 affirmations for teachers to soothe some of the impact of that internal chatter as they step back into the school year.  Share this with a teacher friend if you know one.
Affirmations are a great tool and exercise to shift our awareness....even if we may argue with the statements sometimes.  To give the mind and heart a break from the often harsh toned self talk can do wonders for the nervous system.  Give these a try.
Take 5 minutes for yourself and try out this practice.
Take 5 slow breathes in and out then slowly read throught these affirmations.  You can also turn this into a writing exercise for your self too by rewriting these affirmations in a notebook.
1. I am a poweful teacher.
2. I bring authenticity and integrity to my work.
3. I treat myself and my students with kindness.
4. My teachering ability grows everyday!
5. I make a difference in my students' lives.
6. My work, my teaching matters!
7. I am grateful for the opportunity I have everyday to impact the future!
8. I am a champion for my students learning and wellbeing.
9. I believe in myself and my skills.
10. I am calm at peace and ready to meet this day.
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May all of our amazing teachers feel and know their impact, importance and power this year!