Everything around us works against reordering and simplifying. Advertisements have one goal – to make us discontent, dissatisfied with who we are and what we have. Enough is never enough! This attitude can creep into our teaching and to students through their teachers.
Life’s Greatest Stresses (1990’s)
- Crowds
- Noise
- Pace of Life
According to Time Magazine, these were the top three stressors in the 1990’s. When the article was written, my family and I lived in Asia, the center of these stressors! As the culture, so the classroom. It was exciting, fast paced – yes. But, there was an unhealthy side as well. Students did not really have time to learn nor did teachers have enough time to teach. Curriculum demands increased, so the pace did as well. Looking back I can see many opportunities I missed because I had not decided to reorder the classroom by simplifying.
Today, about 5% to 7% of adults in the U.S. are pursuing some form of voluntary simplicity, according to Gerald Celente, director of the Trends Research Institute in New York. Of course, this means that 95-97% are not doing anything about simplifying. So, what do people do to deal with stress?
- 82 percent, turn on the television, listen to music or read.
- Family and friends serve as a solid support for 71 percent of those polled.
- Prayer or meditation is a recourse for 62 percent
- Exercise sustains 55 percent
I have witnessed a growing stress among students, elementary and secondary, teachers and administrators. This concern has made me consider why reordering through simplifying is so difficult. Two possibilities are:
- Busyness: we are very unsettled if we are not busy. Stillness, reflection, quiet times, are luxuries in many of today’s classrooms.
- Comparing: consuming focus is others and ourselves. We are easily influenced by how others are doing or how we are lagging behind.
Having taken steps to simplify…
I realize it is a difficult journey, indeed. However, I have learned at least two lessons:
- No one complicates my life but me.
- Busyness might be nothing more than an anesthetic for an empty life.
Having said all this, I challenge you to review your routines. Do they flow, integrate, inspire, refresh and engage your students? Review your lesson plans – are they simple or complicated? Invite a colleague to observe how you give directions. Do you confuse or clarify?
What is at stake?
If a classroom is a stressful, fast-paced environment, which has no let-up or relief, I believe there will be a negative impact on the teacher and students. Being threatened are:
- Restful, renewing learning environment
- Ability to reflect and give thoughtful attention to work
Perhaps we will need to focus on this again. But, for now, take sufficient time to:
- reflect on your personal life
- evaluate your professional life
- evaluate your routines
I can hear some saying, “I don’t have time for this!” Hmm…point made!
