Neuroplasticity, according to the National Institute of Health, is the ability of our nervous system to adapt structurally and functionally. We control this process by decisions we make every day. Have you ever arrived at work and think "how did I get here?" You don't remember the whole drive, but somehow your brain knew exactly what to do to get you there safely. That is because you have repeated that task every single day.
In sports, we practice over and over to develop muscle memory. With each repetition, athletes are creating "ruts" in their brains for how to perform the skill. Much like a back road that has ruts from tractors going back and forth all season, our brains create pathways from repetition. That's why we practice for our cheer competitions so much! Stress and nerves can wreak havoc on a routine. We create muscle memory so they don't have to think! Their bodies just do what they have been trained to do.
Just as repetitive movements create patterns, repetitive thoughts also create patterns in our mind. These physical changes in our brain matter are shown in how we look, how we speak, how we act, and how we feel. And just like when you slip into a deep rut on a gravel road, negative thought patterns can be difficult to get out of. As teachers, we are experts at building students up and filling their minds with positive, uplifting encouragement. But are we doing the same for ourselves?
By deliberately choosing to set our hearts on joy, gratitude, and positivity, we can create new ruts, changing our thought patterns, impacting our mental health, and encouraging those around us. Attitudes are contagious and affect how those around us feel. That begins the moment we walk up and they see our faces. Proverbs tells us that "a merry heart makes a cheerful countenance...." Our hearts affect not only how we act, but how we look. And that, in turn, impacts those around us.
As educators, our attitudes create the environment of our classrooms, our hallways, and our buildings. Just as our students get excited if we are excited, they become negative if we are negative. I think we can all agree that there are times when this is an incredibly difficult job that can really drag us down. Our students are a reflection of what we bring into the classroom. On those most difficult days, we want to be able to rely on the positive "ruts" that we have created in our brains to pull us through. That is so much easier said than done.
So how can we help create pathways of positivity in our brain? Making the decision every day to do these 4 things will help!
- Let go of worry. Worry is a counterproductive thought pattern that actually interferes with problem-solving.
- Stop comparing. Spending time looking at others keeps you from seeing the good in your life.
- Break the habit of complaining. Use that energy to learn and grow through what you are going through.
- Choose to smile and be grateful. We are truly blessed in so many ways.
Good Advice! Makes me think of Philippians 4:8.
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