Keep calm and stride on
Latha Vydianathan
The symphony of teaching is a beautiful journey with a complex composition. Amidst the demands of lesson plans, assessments, and student needs, finding moments of calm is essential for maintaining balance and effectiveness. For me, reflection is the cornerstone of my tranquility.
At the end of each day, I retreat to a quiet space to ponder about the echoes from the classroom. These moments of introspection are akin to tuning a finely crafted instrument. I replay interactions, analyze decisions, and celebrate small victories. Through this reflection, I identify patterns, refine my approach, and nurture a deeper understanding of my students.
It is in these quiet moments that I rediscover the heart of my profession. Beyond the curriculum and the grades lies a world of young minds yearning to explore, question, and grow. Reflecting on their spark, their challenges, and their triumphs rekindles my passion and reinforces my commitment to their success.
Of course, teaching is not solely about introspection. It demands action, creativity, and resilience. But it is the balance between reflection and implementation that creates a harmonious symphony. When I feel overwhelmed by the weight of expectations, I return to my reflective space. Here, I find solace, clarity, and a renewed sense of purpose.
In a world that often prioritizes productivity over wellbeing, I believe that reflection is a radical act of self-care. It is a testament to the belief that effective teaching begins with a calm and centered educator. By nurturing my own wellbeing through reflection, I am better equipped to create a nurturing and inspiring learning environment for my students.
One particular incident tested the depths of my composure. A superior’s critical eye, once a source of pride, became a weapon of intimidation. The once-familiar space transformed into a minefield of tension. In those challenging moments, reflection became my lifeline. By dissecting the interactions, I realized that my patience was being tested, not my competence. This understanding empowered me to respond calmly rather than defensively.
The subsequent denial of a well-deserved promotion was a bitter pill to swallow. Yet again, reflection proved to be my ally. Instead of dwelling on the injustice, I channelled my energies into self-improvement. I used the time to deepen my knowledge, expand my skill set, and refine my teaching philosophy. This period of introspection led to a clearer vision of my career path and the courage to seek opportunities beyond my current institution.
Eventually, a new role presented itself, one that aligned perfectly with my aspirations. The journey to secure this position was hard, but the confidence gained through reflection propelled me forward. I had transformed disappointment into determination, and adversity into growth.
So, while the classroom may be a whirlwind of activity, my reflective practice is the steady anchor that keeps me grounded. It is in these quiet moments that I find the strength and wisdom to navigate the complexities of teaching and to create a lasting impact on the lives of my students. It is a testament to the belief that even in the face of challenges, a teacher can emerge stronger, wiser, and more resilient. So stay calm and stride on creating your own charm.
Latha Vydianathan practices reflective writing rigorously and advocates the practice for self-improvement, especially for educators. She believes it is the path to finding solutions instead of suffering with the problems. She can be reached at latha.vydianathan@yahoo.com
