The body: Take a walk. Breathe in the fresh air. Look around, have you even noticed that the leaves are beginning to change color? Step away from the technology and focus on your body. This is something that is challenging for me. I will admit I do think of health and consider what I am eating or drinking, but finding the time for exercising is challenging for me. Fitting in all my roles and obligations means a busy schedule. I will make the commitment set aside an hour a week (to get back on track) for exercise.
The mind: Clearly, being in a masters program is a challenge to keep the mind sharp, but beyond that I seek to have challenging or deep conversations. The more I think I disagree or can't relate to the person the more intrigued I am to converse with them. Now, a conversation that challenges me to understand is the best way to sharpen my mind.
The soul: For me, that means doing for others. Sharpening my soul means fueling it with inspiration and good will. Helping someone in need definitely sharpens my soul. It keeps me grounded and connected to the world around me.
The heart: My family and my students fill my heart like nothing in this world can. Seeing the joy and laughter in my own kids and family is uplifting. Sharing those laughs and good times are exactly what lifts me from a hard day or stress-filled schedule. When I think of my students, their innocence and silly conversations fill me with joy. There are no words to express how it heals my heart to laugh with a six-year-old, or to see the light in their eyes when they truly understand a new concept for the first time. It definitely keeps me sharply tuned in to their feelings and mine
I will commit to...continuing to remain focused in obtaining a balance of using the saw as well as sharpening the saw. The last thing I strive to be is the dullest pencil in the box!