Have you ever wondered who the most successful teacher in the world is? In other fields of knowledge, science, or sports, there's always someone who gets the title of "the best." Nowadays, there are many people considered sources of inspiration, legends, or gurus.
I've met a few in the schools where I've worked, but they aren't known or valued like the number ones in other areas. This makes me ask: what does it mean to be a successful school teacher? Who can be my role model? Who is that person who has been in a classroom with children for decades and whose presence changes everything, and whom you would like to be like?
After thinking about it, I concluded that, at least in our profession, success is personal. And I agree. Moreover, I have a few beliefs validated by my experience with success. For example: success attracts more success, success leaves a mark, and most importantly, I feel successful in my job when I enjoy what I do, when I feel I have done things well. Well, not just well, excellently.
I've always had the "luck" of having a good relationship with almost all the families of my students and of building groups that have helped me stand out. I think I've been able to guide and bring out the best in my students so that we all do well and, in some way, all feel successful. You know how important it is for a child to feel that way.
After all these ideas and years of sharing with many teachers and experiencing very good times and not-so-good ones, I want to highlight a few points that can help you identify success as a teacher.
1. Consider success a must, a commitment to yourself, not an option
To do this, I invite you to define what success is for you and also what failure is. Look for beliefs that help you be successful and feel successful easily, or you will feel like a failure easily. If being successful for you is winning the award for the best teacher in the world, the truth is you will feel like a "loser" almost all your working life and therefore in your personal life.
These are my beliefs for being a successful teacher:
- I don't give up in the face of difficulty.
- I enjoy what I do and focus on what I gain from situations.
- I give my best.
If at the end of the day, month, or year I can respond positively to these beliefs, I feel and live success.
2. Success can be a path, but also the goal
Maintain a problem-solving mindset and a positive attitude. Success is not just the final destination but also the journey. Enjoy each step of the process and learn from every experience, whether good or bad.
3. Luck won't make you successful
I've learned that luck exists only for those who prepare, who give their best, who love what they do, or who simply commit to their path. I believe that just one of these is enough.
4. Be honest with yourself
One of the biggest problems we have is that we love to deceive ourselves and make excuses for what we can't achieve. You know, the easy way out. I invite you to pause for a moment and think if you are really doing things wanting to be and feel successful or out of obligation. If that's the case, you know your life is a mess. Try to change it or improve it; it only depends on you.
5. Work on your inner strength or resilience
Prepare yourself every day to handle any obstacle, objection, or barrier that may arise in the educational process. This means being ready to face challenges, adapt to changes, and maintain a resilient attitude in the face of difficulties.
In summary, being a successful teacher is not about being the best in the world in terms of awards and recognition, but about feeling fulfilled and satisfied with the work we do every day. Keep a positive attitude, be resilient, and always strive to give your best. In the end, true success is enjoying the journey and knowing you are making a difference in the lives of your students.
Extra Resource for Your Teaching Journey
If you're looking for resources to help you achieve success in your classroom, check out my Teachers Pay Teachers store. You'll find a variety of materials designed to inspire both you and your students, including:
Visit my store here and explore resources that can support you in your teaching journey. Remember, success is not just about the destination but about enjoying every step along the way!
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