Why do you believe SEL and EQ are important?
EQ is foundational work for feeling a sense of purpose & freedom. Without understanding our emotional framework and tools to process them, we end up avoiding them all together or lashing out on the people we love. EQ is one of the most empowering things I have learned, especially being an empathetic and sensitive woman. I am very hard working and realized how easily I was focusing out on work & family in avoidance of my own emotional turmoil and upset. EQ gives people the tools to process, regulate & DECIDE the emotional state they would like to dwell in.
Do you have any personal anecdotes about how SEL/EQ has brought you success in your personal life/career?
I joke that I am a recovering procrastinator and people pleaser. I used to outsource so much of my joy and happiness by doing things for other people. I didn’t realize how closed off I was because of pain, regret or disappointment I was harboring. I attended an immersive Leadership & EQ Training that allowed me to see how worthy I am of taking up space, of starting even when I feel shaky, of taking the reins in my own life. The biggest part of EQ that has been transformational for me is learning to forgive and process past mistakes and love myself anyways. I learned how powerful it is to give AND receive. Receiving is like a muscle and for the person who finds joy in giving, it requires practice to let other people experience that joy of giving (especially when the giving is directed towards you). EQ has also sent me down a road of using tools like meditation and journaling on a day to day basis to create personal alignment with my actions and core values.
What do you believe to be one or two of the main challenges in education (K-8) today?
– The lack of education around mindfulness and self regulation
– The intensity and pressure around grades versus self expression
Conversely, what do you believe to be one or two of the biggest opportunities in education (K-8) today?
– Open conversations around progress over perfection
– Boundaries with tech/cellphones/screens and reconnecting to the world around us in a mindful way