As most instructors would agree, we, as teachers, learn more from our students over the course of a semester than one can possibly imagine. This feels the most true for me in my Psychology of Learning class I teach each Spring at Rogers State University.
Learning, by definition, the alteration of behavior as a result of individual experience. When an organism can perceive and change its behavior, it is said to learn. Because of this definition one of the course requirements is to maintain a weekly journal or log, where each student, and I, utilize each technique discussed in class to make a positive change in our own lives. This has been a rewarding experience for nearly everyone who takes the assignment seriously and doesn't just want a good grade alone. It has helped me break bad habits and transform. Many of my students have reported the same.
This semester, I am working on getting upset when others don't like me. Although I cognitively know that everyone doesn't like everyone else, and its a natural part of life. It still always hurts, a LOT. I have been journaling about it and working on it steadily and am making progress, however, yesterday was the true catalyst of change for me!
One of my beloved students, if she reads this she will know who she is, shared about the battles she faces with a nasty inner monologue. We have all been there. Maybe we think, I am stupid, I am not a good parent, I am worthless, I am fat... I could honestly go on and on... This exceptional student pointed outa simple question: "Who is saying it?"
When she fact checks her inner monologue with reality she keeps seeing the same pattern over and over again... No one is saying these hateful things but her! In fact, others are usually saying quite the opposite.
We have all heard the expression, "Consider the source." Perhaps it is time for all of us to consider the source a bit closer. Are all allowing our inner thoughts to destroy us? What are the people who love us actually saying?
It is time to think about who said it, and choose who we believe! Today I choose to believe the people who love me, not the negative Nancy
in my life. I choose to allow those who love me to build me up, rather than let my thoughts tear me down. Today, I choose happiness.
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