We’re coming up to what can be the most stressful time of year for some teachers.
Luckily, we’re Genki language teachers.
Which means we can also use the power of language to help control our own reactions and feelings as well as those of our students.
A prime example when you are feeling a little stressed.
Very often this is caused by the word “should” (which we’ll talk about later) or the phrase “I have to …..”
Just think of all the things you feel you “have to” do.
- I have to wake up early
- I have to get those books ready
- I have to do those reports
- I have to do the dishes
- I have to …
- I have to …..
Each “I have to” can feel like a hammer thumping down on your shoulders.
But what would you say if there was a really simple way to reverse this?
Where instead of each time we thought of preparing dinner, getting the kids ready, or going back to school, it felt like a little boost. A little lift. The feeling of balloons gently raising our shoulders.
Would that feel good?
Well, it’s really simple.
Just transform every “I have to” into
“I get to”
Instead of “I have to do those dishes” it’s “I get to do those dishes” (not everyone has food never mind dishes to eat them from.)
Instead of “I have to clean the house” it’s “I get to clean the house” (you’re got a house!)
Instead of “I have to get ready for school” it’s “I get to get ready for school” ( you’ve got a job you love!)
So your homework today …..
- Make a list of all your “have to”s
- Change them into “get to”s
- See how lighter that makes your world feel. 🙂
You can of course do this with your kids too. Do it as a list like above or, for more advanced students, check it out with the free I have to … I can game & song from the Genki English HipHopEnglish.com mini site!
Enjoy!
Be genki,
Richard
P.S. Or if you are wanting more “Stress Free” tips, check out the Genki Business Course It not only has a full personal development course in there, but learning the genki business skills of pricing, choosing the right students & choosing the right staff, is guaranteed to reduce your stress load 🙂 If you get in soon, you’ve still got time to get it started before term starts!
