In the past few days, I’ve engaged in several conversations regarding emotions.  These conversations had begun with discussing how a child is handling their emotions but quickly transitioned to the adults admitting they are struggling as well.   For me personally, June and December have always been more stressful and presented a higher level of emotions to navigate, which in turn affects those around me.  This year feels different, it feels much more intense.  We’ve all been holding on to so many emotions over the last 18 months that they are beginning to boil over.  

We’re not meant to keep our emotions in check 100% of the time.  We need to find some balance or outlet, understanding how to express our feelings appropriately in a safe environment.  How do we monitor our own emotions while helping our children understand their own?  Many of us continue to put on a smile and brave face because it’s easier than showing how we are really feeling.  Maybe we just don’t know how to appropriately express our feelings.  We talk big about self-care, but “forget” about ourselves, adopting the old adage, “do as I say and not as I do.”  The reality is we are tired and need a break so that we can again find the best version of ourselves. 

It’s clear that parents, teachers, and support staff need summer break to arrive.  COVID fatigue is real and many need this school year to end with an optimistic view of the new school year to come.  We need to give ourselves some grace and not stress about the world around us, but focus on what we can control.  Let’s take time to enjoy our summer!  

How do we vow to take care of ourselves so we have the energy to take care of our loved ones? 

#standreadytosupport