Mindfulness for NQTs: Name it to Tame it

Through being self-aware and knowing which thoughts and feelings are arising in each moment and situation, we can take control and allow ourselves space to respond rather than react. This is especially important in the situations you will find yourself in with colleagues, students and parents. 

Name it to take it allows us to identify the thoughts and feelings we are having in the moment and in doing so we can take the sting out of the emotion so that it doesn't control us. We may notice that what we initially thought was happening inside and outside of us, isn't actually the case and perhaps there is another or different emotion, thought or feeling that we need to deal with. 

In knowing what the issue is, we can then start giving ourselves what we need in that moment itself or simply promise ourselves that we'll sort it out soon. This will help the situation more than if you just reacted in the moment.

This is also a technique to teach students and help them become more aware of what they are thinking and feeling. The teacher can model it by showing their students how they do it and how it helps. With more students and teachers using this technique, there can be an improvement in behaviour as communication is improving rather than the students and teacher simply reacting to each other. 

These tips will be shared all through August to prepare NQTs for this coming year. They can also be found across social media on my accounts.

Book your place on one of the 30 minute workshop every Wednesday through August through www.beingthebestyoucanbe.org only for £5.

Facebook: Being the Best You Can Be

Facebook group: Mindfulness and Compassion for Teachers, Educators and School Staff

Twitter: @alisonlaycock23