Description
Book SynopsisDevelop and implement an action plan for self-care
Cultivating focus, re-energizing oneself, and improving daily habits are essential for educators' well-being and the good that they pass along to students.Mike Kuczala asserts that educators' greatest tool is a mirrorin it, teachers will find their greatest advocate for personal growth, power, wellness, and vision: themselves.
However, finding the time to implement new habits can be hard. Because small changes are easier to plan for and realize,Kuczala concentrates on the habits that are most likely to yield significant improvements.This book guides educators in meaningful self-reflection by providing:
- Five critical practices to increase productivity and decrease anxiety
- Reflection prompts and vignettes to guide readers in developing self-care strategies
- Practical checklists and templates to help educators maintain goals
Grounded in new research connecting personal change to professional improvement, Kuczala's approach to well-being builds a bridge between mind and body to create a comprehensive path for success.
Trade Review"What an incredible, practical road map to spark and guide teachers on how and why it is important to take care of ourselves and develop healthy habits. This book created a real shift in how I view myself and the world. The Peak Performing Teacher unites a lot of discreet ideas and connections that make a lot of sense. I am getting a copy for my principal and looking forward to putting my energy into change instead of fighting just to maintain."
-- Jenny Boulianne
Table of ContentsPreface Acknowledgments About the Author Introduction The Most Important Piece of Equipment The ABCs of Achievement The Power of “Must” Pain/Pleasure in Practice Habit #1: Live the Physical Life A Paradigm Shift Embracing the Physical Life Does Much More Than Raise Your Level of Fitness Exercise Is Life’s First Answer to This Essential Question: How Do I Create a Life Worth Living? Simply . . . Walk Where Are Your Sneakers? Vary the Environment The Benefits Don’t Stop at School (a Word About the Physical Classroom) Habit #2: Change Your Mind Challenge Your Thinking Same Story, New Moral Fifty States of Mind Where Stress Cannot Exist Just Breathe The Powerhouse A Quick Revisit to the Brain/Body Connection One Man’s Insight Stress in the Classroom Habit #3: Sharpen Your Mental Focus: Creating Mission and Purpose Part 1: The Personal Mission Statement Creating Your Personal Mission Statement Personal Mission Statement Rough Draft Completed Mission Statement Part 2: Setting Goals Understanding the Difference Between a Good Idea and Writing a Goal Creating the Future Now Creating a Transformational Goal The Rocking Chair Test Goal Setting in the Classroom Habit #4: Power Up Gratitude Who Doesn’t Want These Benefits for So Very Little Effort? In the Business of Gratitude Making It Real Who Deserves Your Letter? Gratefulness in the Classroom One More Gratitude Quote for the Teacher Lounge Habit #5: Make the Morning Count The Morning Routines of Real Teachers My Morning Routine Putting It All Together Understand the Power of the Moment Create a Plan Change Your Limiting Beliefs Enjoy the Process Start Now Surround Yourself With Success and Positivity A Final Word References Index
