Nelson Garais

I appreciate the strategy presented that talked about taking on one stressor at a time.  I find that this is related to the earlier topics of time management.  Prioritization and to-do-list thinking seems to be key here when "chipping away" at a stressor.  

The biggest stressor that I experience as a teacher is always the incongruity of expectation versus reality.  We work very hard as teachers but the reality of our paychecks at times conflicts with our passion for this profession.  We also prepare diligently but then can have a class that does not respond in the way we thought they would (or perform in the way we thought they are capable).  It is part of the job and I have learned to accept the disparity and work within its confines.  This training has several strategies that I will use.

This module reminds me that there are ways to budget and utilize my time as a teacher more effectively.  Prioritization, To-Do Lists, and Calendars are things that I do but do not perform consistently.  

I have learned that recognition is the key.  We as adults are sometimes so busy that we just ignore the symptoms and just keep on going because that is what it means to be an adult.  

The definition of critical thinking requires objective data.  Willingness to new ideas and having an open mind is the precursor to obtaining good objective data.  The direct application of this skill set in the work force is invaluable.  We train future professionals to think for themselves and adapt.