Intention: Energy

 

We all have days when we are dragging, when we would probably rather do any other thing in the world than get out of bed and come to our job. It's normal, natural, and human for our moods to ebb and flow; however, do you let that "I don't want to be here" energy enter into your classroom or do you leave it at the door? Short answer- I hope you check it. 

The simplest definition of energy is "the ability to do work"; therefore, whatever energy you bring into your classroom must sustain work for 8 hours. 

Your energy is important. 

Your energy impacts student energy. 

Student energy impacts student engagement. 

Student engagement impacts student achievement. 

...and so on and so forth. Your energy is important.

For some teachers, this comes so easily. You might be naturally high energy, extroverted, confident, etc. You might just "got it". If so, this post isn't for you. Congratulations- you're on your way! You're off to great places, have a wonderful day! 

However, for some teachers, energy requires intention. You might need to work each and every day to bring some kind of charisma to your classroom. This is going to look differently for everyone, but the key is confidence. Whatever you do, you've got to leave insecurities at home and bring the energy of someone who knows things. You have to walk the walk and talk the talk at school because if you don't, your students will take over that role for you and rule your room. 

Story time...

A lot of people are surprised to learn that I am an introvert. I'm not naturally outgoing, I don't really love speaking in front of people or being the center of attention, so teaching has always seemed like the furthest thing from my comfort zone. Yet, somehow, at the same time, it has always been my calling.  On paper, I should be terrible as an educator, but as an introvert, I draw energy from others and from the environment. I latch onto things that energize me to get me through each day...and for me, it's this work. And I believe that why it works.  

In the classroom, I thrive on systems, organized routine, and the art of lesson planning. A well made lesson plan is like my script, so I can "play" my part (very much like an actress- side note: subbing makes me feel like a fraud because I'm usually so unsure of what's going on in someone else's space). Knowing exactly what I am planning to say and do gives me confident energy to do the work every day. For me, it also comes from the content and the challenge of creating a dynamic lesson to make even the "boring" stuff something my students could find engaging. It's almost a "tell me I can't, so I will" fight or flight mentality. I'm big on beginning with the end in mind, eyes on the prize, laser focused kind of energy, too, and that's what I bring to my students. My students have always responded positively to the mix of the calm confidence and the all (mostly) business energy that is me, which I attribute to the fact that it is truly ME in a professional setting. I use this natural energy to create a classroom vibe that is safe and comfortable, productive, respectful, and values student success.

I think the biggest takeaway I've learned over the years in education is that "fake it til you make it" is not sustainable. Yes, it might feel like you are playing a "role" at times, but your character should be rooted in reality. Figure yourself out and work with what you have. Turn your natural energy that into something that works for you and your students. The end.

 

If you took anything away from this post, I hope it's these 3 things: 

• Know yourself and your limits. 
• Find something about this job that drives you and tap into that energy.
• Present that energy to your class, every day. It's important.

Reflect: 

What energy do you bring on your best days? This is your vibe. 

What do you need to do to consistently pass your own vibe check?