All posts by Tahira Yasmeen

Why do you believe SEL and EQ are important?

SEL and EQ are the core of what makes us function as humans, and they are essential to navigating our lives in a healthy way. They help us cope with the inevitable obstacles that challenge and skew our life path and teach us to attune to others along the way. We all need to belong, and therefore, we need to understand our own shortcomings and limitations while learning to empathize so we can build deep connections and become strong advocates. The more we master SEL skills and develop our EQ, the greater the chance we have in making this world a better place to exist.

Do you have any personal anecdotes about how SEL/EQ has brought you success in your
personal life/career?

Over time, I noticed people seeking me out to discuss personal and professional problems, especially those involving challenging people in their lives. They often expressed appreciation of the time I spent listening to them while offering some guidance, and many of my colleagues told me to go into leadership. Having gained confidence as being the sort of “SEL guru”, I am able to have conversations with just about any person in any role, which can be daunting to some. In my personal life, this led me to meeting my dream celebrity (Jon Bon Jovi) and professionally, it allowed me to reach out to people as a podcaster. Rather than being intimidated by people with a distinguished title or status, I am eager to learn from them. Having strong SEL/EQ knowledge and skills has definitely helped me grow, and overall, the connections I have with others ultimately open the doors for opportunity.

What do you believe to be one or two of the main challenges in education (K-8) today?

The two main challenges in education are: 1) a lack of training in trauma-informed teaching and, 2) avoiding difficult topics and situations with staff and students because we are driven by fear of causing further harm, offending someone or getting something wrong, so we do nothing. Investing in SEL early in human development will lead to an advanced EQ in later life, especially in early adolescence when the brain is uniquely developing. Schools are the second most significant agent of socialization and often have a powerful influence over the life path of our children. The earlier we learn to effectively teach self-advocacy, boundary-setting, decision-making, self-regulation (or naming/recognizing/feeling our emotions), self-awareness, etc. the better chance our youth will have in polishing these skills when they are emerging adults. Learning this in the early years also normalizes the conversations and allows adults to confidently model behaviors and foster important discussions that can keep our children safe and in healthier life circumstances. Had teen students learned the essential SEL/EQ in their homes and reinforced by schools (or visa versa), they may have avoided unhealthy/abusive dating relationships, or perhaps they would have set boundaries with friends, activities or (gasp) parents/adults. With all of the evidence-based data we have these days, SEL should be mandated in school curriculum globally to address these pressing issues.

Conversely, what do you believe to be one or two of the biggest opportunities in education (K-8) today?

There is excellent leadership right now in education with some awesome training opportunities that exist in SEL. Insightful administrators are leaning on their compassionate staff who understand the value of this kind of programming, so innovation is definitely occurring. Training in trauma-informed teaching and mental health awareness is readily available, and conversations about suicide prevention is emerging more now than ever before. Some schools infuse SEL curriculum into daily practice, especially in middle schools, and others are stepping into it; there is forward movement. I also see administrators investing more into whole school SEL programming while keeping their staff’s mental health in mind. Parent groups are receiving training and students are attending workshops (internally or externally) too, and language around emotional regulation and self-awareness is being normalized. This is a fantastic way for whole school communities to unite. I am really excited about the future of education!

Why do you believe SEL and EQ are important?

Many of us learn functional and technical skills in school, college and traditional training programs. But we often don’t learn how to improve collaborative action, how to create mutually-beneficially emotional connections with others, or how to have the purposeful, effective (and sometimes difficult) conversations that actually drive our most important results.

Do you have any personal anecdotes about how SEL/EQ has brought you success in your
personal life/career?

As an Executive Coach, I experience the power of EQ every day, both personally and through the experiences of my clients. Here’s an antidote that I share in my book, The Coaching Companion: For twenty years, Sharon was a highly accomplished human resources executive. In recent years, she found herself exhausted and overwhelmed by her position. One day, Sharon’s coach asked her about her social life. Initially, Sharon resisted this topic, seeing it as irrelevant to her sense of feeling overwhelmed. However, as soon as Sharon was willing to open up to her coach about her life outside of work, she realized that her career had so dominated her life that her friendships had become nonexistent. Sharon soon realized that she could handle the stress of management more effectively when she invested time in friendships outside of work. Although it was painful to shine a light in this dark corner of her life, Sharon was thankful for the doors it opened to a more fulfilling lifestyle.

What do you believe to be one or two of the main challenges in education (K-8) today?

In today’s VUCA (volatile, uncertain, complex, and ambitious) environment, our children face more stress than ever before. As parents and educators, we need to elevate our own capacity to handle complexity while concurrently finding effective ways to teach our children how to thrive alongside us.

Conversely, what do you believe to be one or two of the biggest opportunities in education (K-8) today?

As the world moves to a more integrated and global perspective, we have the opportunity to teach our children SEL/EQ in the context of nearly everything they do. Perhaps more so than ever before, there is a push toward integrated and connected education, where children can learn about SEL/EQ through history, science, and literature.

Why do you believe SEL and EQ are important?

People will have many jobs in their lifetime and SEL and EQ can help us adapt and be flexible throughout our working years.

Do you have any personal anecdotes about how SEL/EQ has brought you success in your
personal life/career?

I’m an entrepreneur which means lots of ups and downs. Having skills like resilience and self-regulation can help me weather the storms of uncertainty in my career.

What do you believe to be one or two of the main challenges in education (K-8) today?

Time and money—those are two of the main challenges for many things in education!

Conversely, what do you believe to be one or two of the biggest opportunities in education (K-8) today?

Hybrid learning can offer more opportunities for some students. All students are different and there are those self-motivated learners that can really thrive in a virtual environment.

Why do you believe SEL and EQ are important?

SEL and EQ are integral to development, and applying knowledge and wisdom for the intelligent heart.

Do you have any personal anecdotes about how SEL/EQ has brought you success in your
personal life/career?

SEL/EQ helped me become more self-aware, build relationships, make better decisions and become an effective advocate for myself and others.

What do you believe to be one or two of the main challenges in education (K-8) today?

Adapting to change (e.g. online learning modalities) and developing neurodiverse talent.

Conversely, what do you believe to be one or two of the biggest opportunities in education (K-8) today?

Adapting to change and effectively developing and advocating for twice-exceptional students and particularly, gifted African American girls in STEM.

Why do you believe SEL and EQ are important?

They are important be cause they are the root of all other subject and how the student learns, engages and retains the educational process.

Do you have any personal anecdotes about how SEL/EQ has brought you success in your
personal life/career?

Will save for the presentation.

What do you believe to be one or two of the main challenges in education (K-8) today?

Leadership that truly understands the student environment and home life outside of the classroom.

Conversely, what do you believe to be one or two of the biggest opportunities in education (K-8) today?

The biggest opportunity is allowing students to use their negative experiences as a guide of what not to do.

Why do you believe SEL and EQ are important?

I believe SEL and EQ are important because an emotional imbalance can wreck your life. Many students are classified as having behavior issues because they do not know how to manage their emotions, and I believe teaching about SEL and EQ could help diffuse this.

Do you have any personal anecdotes about how SEL/EQ has brought you success in your
personal life/career?

I teach self-regulation techniques to my students regularly to help them clear their minds and manage behavior and have experienced students gain awareness and begin to use the techniques without being prompted to regulate their behavior.

What do you believe to be one or two of the main challenges in education (K-8) today?

One of the main challenges is that teachers do not always feel supported by administration and parents, making it sometimes difficult to set parameters for what is and is not acceptable in the classroom.

Conversely, what do you believe to be one or two of the biggest opportunities in education (K-8) today?

One of the biggest opportunities in education is the opportunity to show a child that they matter!

Why do you believe SEL and EQ are important?

For several years I have served on the board of an organization providing SEL in schools. I have seen student academic performance improve significantly when the students are given tools to navigate their socio-emotional states. We know that students without those tools and without social emotional support are more likely to disrupt class and more likely to be removed from academic situations. Lest you think I only care about the academics, I am one who believes that education necessarily involves the whole student.

Do you have any personal anecdotes about how SEL/EQ has brought you success in your
personal life/career?

I think of when I was diagnosed with a chronic disease a few years ago. Most of the physicians I visited to diagnose my chronic gastro-intestinal condition directed me to a specialist clinic at Vanderbilt University Hospital. When I reached Vanderbilt to set up an appointment, they outlined the day: First you will see the physician, then the nutritionist, and then a psychologist. Each time I returned for bi-monthly treatments, I also saw the psychologist. His experience is that some people with my condition start to feel despair and worthlessness. He says, “My only goal for these meetings is to help you not to turn on yourself.” He was highly aware of the holistic nature of health. The chronic condition is now a normal part of my life, and the psychologists fears are not.

What do you believe to be one or two of the main challenges in education (K-8) today?

With the ambiguity of the COVID virus, schools have to make difficult decisions about how best to educate our students. Of course, this has always been the case, but quarantine situations have amplified the difficulties. Unfortunately, partisan politics has entered the fray in strange and unhelpful ways so that the decision of educators are being overridden by some people with other agendas. For those remaining in remote learning and those returning from remote learning, SEL is growing more evidently important. We are dealing with new concerns. And for those who must remain remote, access to SEL can be challenging.

Conversely, what do you believe to be one or two of the biggest opportunities in education (K-8) today?

I think the pandemic has revealed both resilience and innovation. Educators, students and parents have face unforeseen challenges. But they have also developed new ways of coping and new ways of learning. There is no reason to stop that innovative thinking. There is no reason to stop emphasizing SEL. I also believe that children are the key to a more inclusive society. Our schools have the opportunity to embrace diversity, inclusion and equity, and children will be some of our guides.

Why do you believe SEL and EQ are important?

SEL and EQ are vital components to a fulfilling life. Without them, it’s nearly impossible to experience connection with others and joy.

Do you have any personal anecdotes about how SEL/EQ has brought you success in your
personal life/career?

As a survivor of childhood neglect, I know what it’s like go without modeling, education, guidance, and support. As a result, my SEL and EQ were developmentally delayed as an adult. With the help of friends, animals, educators, and therapists I was able to progress in these areas. As a result, I witnessed my relationships, career, finances, and ability to experience joy dramatically increase.

What do you believe to be one or two of the main challenges in education (K-8) today?

Schools and districts without access to financial resources and community support struggle to provide support to their students. Usually, emotional and social development programs are not a priority when resources are lacking.

Conversely, what do you believe to be one or two of the biggest opportunities in education (K-8) today?

I am overjoyed to see the implementation of holistic mental health in schools. Programs that exposed students to mindfulness practices such as mediation and yoga are highly beneficial. Also, I’ve noticed an increased partnership and collaboration between school counselors and outpatient therapists.

Why do you believe SEL and EQ are important?

Because they drive our ability to regulate through difficult times. They drive the quality of relationships and heavily impact our mental and emotional wellbeing.

Do you have any personal anecdotes about how SEL/EQ has brought you success in your
personal life/career?

Nurturing relationships, Professional leadership, Better understanding of self, Reduce depression & anxiety

What do you believe to be one or two of the main challenges in education (K-8) today?

1] Childrens ability/skillset to effectively navigating through expectations & anxiety. 2] Confidence and self-regulation

Conversely, what do you believe to be one or two of the biggest opportunities in education (K-8) today?

A more connected generation aside from the technology

Why do you believe SEL and EQ are important?

I believe SEL and EQ are important because it is important to be able to regulate your emotions. Losing control of your emotions can cause what may have been a small incident to turn into a very one.

Do you have any personal anecdotes about how SEL/EQ has brought you success in your
personal life/career?

I worked with a student who was known to elope and on my first day he ran away from me after recess because he did not want to do his math assignment. Knowing that he likes to run, I later used that to help regulate his anxiety about math. The Gen Ed teacher gave a 2-page worksheet that I knew he would not want to complete, so I made him a deal; complete page one with me and I’ll take you outside to run. That excited him! He worked fast and his work was correct. He also completed page 2 after our run.

What do you believe to be one or two of the main challenges in education (K-8) today?

One of the main challenges in education is teacher’s feeling like they do not have the support they need to teach and discipline in their classroom the way they see fit from administration and parents.

Conversely, what do you believe to be one or two of the biggest opportunities in education (K-8) today?

One of the biggest opportunities in education is school of choice, if parents are able to provide transportation.

What is the VALUE of an EQ Summit? An array of EQ/ SEL on-demand workshops? and or A summit that brings together parents and educators.?

The value of an EQ Summit is an array of EQ/SEL on-demand workshops in place for parents and educators.

Why do you believe SEL and EQ are important?

By integrating SEL and EQ early into the lives of students, particularly related to skills of self-awareness, students can learn to overcome difficulties much more quickly. Not only will this lead to a more enjoyable schooling experience, but students will then be in a better state of mind more consistently, so they will be able to learn more in school and will be more likely to develop positive habits. The early development of these skills will lead to a lifetime of greater self-worth, and thus a lifetime of increased happiness and fulfillment.

Do you have any personal anecdotes about how SEL/EQ has brought you success in your
personal life/career?

By practicing these SEL/EQ skills in my own life on a daily basis, I’m fortunate in that I get past difficult situations very quickly. I recognize in the moment that – even though cortisol and adrenaline will likely be active in my body right after the stressful event occurs – those stress chemicals will quickly wash away and then it is my choice as to how respond. I then promptly move into a very broad perspective as to how that particular situation really isn’t that important in the big picture relative to everything that I am.

What do you believe to be one or two of the main challenges in education (K-8) today?

One of the main challenges is that we are socially conditioned to live our moment-to-moment lives through the prisms of ego, worthiness, and fear.

Conversely, what do you believe to be one or two of the biggest opportunities in education (K-8) today?

To help students to know the antidotes for issues related to ego, worthiness, and fear! For ego, it is realizing that we share infinite connection. For worthiness, it is knowing that we have infinite value. For fear, it is realizing that, in the really big picture, we are eternal and therefore invincible.

What is the VALUE of an EQ Summit? An array of EQ/ SEL on-demand workshops? and or A summit that brings together parents and educators.?

An on-demand Summit of EQ/SEL workshops creates an opportunity for parents and educators to gain leading edge knowledge and skills that can positively transform generations of current and future students by providing life-changing content that has never before been so easily accessible.

Why do you believe SEL and EQ are important?

SEL and EQ allow individuals to gain a better sense of self, become more conscious of their emotions and how they respond to life experiences, learn to address the needs of and empathize with others, effectively communicate and collaborate, as well as make informed decisions.

Do you have any personal anecdotes about how SEL/EQ has brought you success in your
personal life/career?

As a former guidance counsellor and clinician, I have been able to use SEL programming to educate and build skills in my students. Through my experiences in schools, I know the importance of students’ voices and embedding SEL throughout a school culture. This led me to writing my dissertation on ‘High School Students’ experiences with SEL in a school model.’ After conducting my research, I realized how much EQ has been the basis of my success as a leader and now psychologist. Through consulting and coaching, I hope to help other leaders, teams, educators, entrepreneurs/business owners see the value of leveraging emotional intelligence skills on a personal and professional level.

What do you believe to be one or two of the main challenges in education (K-8) today?

Relevant training/professional development, technical assistance, and maximizing resources and funding to provide the necessary supports that both staff and students need. On-going leadership development for leaders and staff to make sure that school teams are maximizing their full potential as individuals and team members.

Conversely, what do you believe to be one or two of the biggest opportunities in education (K-8) today?

The pandemic has exposed us to the opportunity to re-invent how we view and deliver educational content and experiences for students. Creativity and education advancement through the use of technology to provide options such as virtual or blended learning based on the needs of our students and school community.

What is the VALUE of an EQ Summit? An array of EQ/ SEL on-demand workshops? and or A summit that brings together parents and educators.?

EQ Summit provides a space for collaboration, communication, and parent and educator voice. Bringing key stakeholders together opens the door to more holistic approaches to serve students, opportunities for growth, and builds our communities.

Why do you believe SEL and EQ are important?

Social-emotional skills are key to enabling individuals to thrive by equipping them with the tools they need to navigate day-to-day situations and interactions. At the same time, SEL and EQ also form the foundation of a kind and empathetic community of people who celebrate diversity, extend support, and overcome challenges together – all of which are crucial to address rising inequities in an increasingly complex world. I think that SEL is central to the mission of creating an ecosystem where individual and community progress works together, instead of against each other.

Do you have any personal anecdotes about how SEL/EQ has brought you success in your
personal life/career?

The past couple of years have been challenging in different ways for everyone. For me, isolating in a country away from home along with the uncertainty induced by the pandemic, brought with it feelings of worry, helplessness, and despair. During these times, the ability to understand my triggers and label my emotions helped me address them. I was able to identify and adopt appropriate coping mechanisms, be kinder with myself, and pause when necessary – all of which greatly helped deal with the stresses of a global pandemic.

What do you believe to be one or two of the main challenges in education (K-8) today?

Education systems continue to overlook the needs and well-being of the adults in children’s lives. Teachers are underpaid and overburdened, counsellors have high caseloads with limited resources, and caregivers are often viewed through a deficit lens. Children do not learn and develop in a vacuum – supporting children has to begin by supporting the adults in their lives.

Conversely, what do you believe to be one or two of the biggest opportunities in education (K-8) today?

The importance of social-emotional well-being cannot be overstated – children have been through so much in the last couple of years, and it is our responsibility, as parents and educators, to equip them with appropriate tools and strategies as they readjust to the new normal. The pandemic has also surfaced the gross inequities in our society. I believe it is time for us to rethink how schools serve children and how they reach the most vulnerable – it can no longer be a one-size-fits-all solution. We have to step up to recognize the unique circumstances and contexts children come from, understand their needs, identify the strengths they bring, engage families, leverage community resources, and make every effort to meet children where they are.

What is the VALUE of an EQ Summit? An array of EQ/ SEL on-demand workshops? and or A summit that brings together parents and educators.?

SEL and EQ are equally beneficial to adults and children. A summit that brings together varied experts and practitioners can provide a platform for adults to not just learn how they can support their children, but also how they can fill their own cup — both of which are extremely relevant skills to learn and master during this unprecedented time.

Why do you believe SEL and EQ are important?

It is through the intentional use of emotional intelligence that we are able to not only comprehend ourselves and others but authentically and intuitively connect with others. Especially given how digital the world becomes. I believe that it will be the fighting force against mental illness and dysfunctional relationships.

Do you have any personal anecdotes about how SEL/EQ has brought you success in your
personal life/career?

As a parent, partner, and coach – listening to understand is a large part of how I show up. Not to mention self-awareness and application of emotional intelligence because it is not something I was raised doing, knowing or having been taught. It is through active listening and self-awareness that allows me to respond and inquire with presence vs abrupt passion.

What do you believe to be one or two of the main challenges in education (K-8) today?

Stress management, burnout, and effective regulation strategies.

Conversely, what do you believe to be one or two of the biggest opportunities in education (K-8) today?

Emotion recognition, labelling, and regulation. If we can master that, both staff and students will be able to navigate through stress, anxiety and unrealistic expectations in a healthier fashion with more authentic leadership.

What is the VALUE of an EQ Summit? An array of EQ/ SEL on-demand workshops? and or A summit that brings together parents and educators.?

The opportunity to learn from a global team of experts. A growing person is a happy person.

Why do you believe SEL and EQ are important?

I believe SEL and EQ are important because people should be more in tune with their emotional intelligence and understand how to balance those emotions regarding themselves and others.

Do you have any personal anecdotes about how SEL/EQ has brought you success in your
personal life/career?

Yes, I am a woman of faith. Therefore, I believe devotion, prayer, and meditation are necessary anecdotes for my success. Spirituality is key in building relationships with others and understanding yourself.

What do you believe to be one or two of the main challenges in education (K-8) today?

I believe the main challenges in education today are; active listening, classroom management, and low salaries.

Conversely, what do you believe to be one or two of the biggest opportunities in education (K-8) today?

I believe the biggest opportunities in education today are; network building and personal growth. Education continues to evolve, and those who operate in this space should always consider taking their profession to the next level.

What is the VALUE of an EQ Summit? An array of EQ/ SEL on-demand workshops? and or A summit that brings together parents and educators.?

The value of attending a summit in this virtual space is an opportunity to receive a wealth of knowledge from expert speakers who can provide tips and tools to help alleviate any challenges or barriers educators and parents may be facing at this particular time in their life.