Middle Years 

We are near the end of a busy term, and there has been much to celebrate over recent weeks. Winter sporting teams are reaching the end of the season, the musical was a resounding success and students have been focused on finishing the term well. Last week’s Wellness Week has prompted me to reflect on four Positive Education themes. In Wellbeing classes, we often reflect on these important dispositions and I encourage all MyPEC students to complete these 4 challenges. 

• Show Gratitude: Research shows that gratitude positively correlates with better grades, improved social integration and increased life satisfaction.

Challenge 1: Express thanks by finding three qualities that you love about your family. All day long focus on those positive qualities. No matter what happens, try to ignore all those little irritating moments or habits that drive you mad.

• Forgive – this has social and emotional benefits, and is related to empathy, compassion, satisfying relationships and pro social behaviours. Forgiving lessens anxiety and hostility. Forgiveness involves a shift in thinking, we need to be willing to say sorry and admit we are wrong.

Challenge 2: Identify three things about yourself that make you want to scream.  Now forgive yourself. Be grateful for the capacity to forgive.

• Be Kind: this is a vital social skill that is an integral part of friendship.

Challenge 3: For an entire day, speak only kind words. If you feel a spark of annoyance, turn it around and find a trait for which to be grateful.

• Self-awareness: being self-aware allows us to improve our emotional awareness, and allows us to notice emotions are they arise.

Challenge 4: Be aware of emotions as they occur, rather than after they affect you. Pay attention to your thoughts and energy you are giving.

Finally, to be the best version of ourselves, we need to be kind, compassionate, empathetic and respectful.

Julia Winter Cooke