Compassion is the feeling we have to take action to relieve the suffering of others. It is a habit that we can build and strengthen through practice. When we exercise compassion for others, our heart softens, we strengthen relationships, our perspective broadens, and we see possibility. As educators, we get really good at strengthening our compassion for others. Where we need to do some intentional work is in building self-compassion and showing ourselves the same kindness we give to others.  

There’s growing research illustrating the positive effects self-compassion has on reducing teacher burn-out, so this is an area that we must take a deeper look at. Sometimes the best place to start is by being more mindful of the life happening AROUND us and more aware of how closely related the disposition of perspective is to the habit of compassion.

Explore the resources below as you learn about the importance of self-compassion to your overall educator well-being and discover ideas that will help you work to be more compassionate towards yourself.