Spring is finally here. Don’t get me wrong, I love the wonders that fluffy snowflakes bring, but warmer weather is on the way and that means freshening up!
A Time for Transformations
Spring is about change. For me, it means moving past the cups of coffee warming my hands, binge-watching winter movies, and comfy fleece sweatpants.
While we declutter and paint inside, the outside world changes, too. The grass in our yard grows greener, my flowers blossom, the sun shines a little longer and our deck becomes an outdoor living space once again.
Overcoming Anxiety & Practicing Self-Compassion
As I begin noticing the seasonal change, my mind starts to look for ways I can change my inner self. I typically don’t like change. I often divert conversations about change.
But I was recently challenged to complete a task that instantly caused anxiety. I could feel the hives taking over my skin. I was vulnerable about this challenge, sharing my fear with my support system. Most importantly, I was patient with myself and kind to myself about this obstacle.
Teaching Kids About Change
I also think of how to teach my children the importance of being flexible to something new. Instead of fearing the unknown and resisting change, I want my kids to understand that change is good. Change can refresh our attitude. Change allows us to break away from monotonous daily routines. Internal change can drive us to be better people or pursue new adventures and goals. Accepting change makes us even more emotionally powerful.
How to Embrace Change Year-Round
Here are a few ways we can encourage and welcome change:
- Identify our fears.
- Acknowledge change.
- Laugh often.
- Focus on all the possibilities change can bring.
- Seek support.
- Be kind and patient with yourself.
Change is hard but inevitable. I am hopeful my internal changes will shape me into a more confident person that lasts longer than spring.
Shelly Mowinkel
K-12 & Teens
My husband and I have three kids. Our oldest is a freshman in high school, and our youngest is in second grade. Most days, I feel like we are a “tag-team chauffeuring” service, yet I wouldn’t have our life any other way. Not only I am a business/technology teacher at Milford, I am also the district technology integration specialist. I love teaching because I get the opportunity to make those around me better. My hope is that, through my blogging, I am able to inspire, encourage, and share with you my adventures of being a wife, mother, and professional.
