November is Gratitude Month

There is great power in gratitude. Harvard Medical School found that, "in positive psychology research, gratitude is strongly and consistently associated with greater happiness. Gratitude helps people feel more positive emotions, relish good experiences, improve their health, deal with adversity, and build strong relationships."  Showing gratitude can make you feel bettter about your life, manage mental health problems like depression and anxiety, improve selt-esteem and sleep, lower your stress, and more. Sounds great, doesn't it? Here are some suggestions on how to increase your own power in gratitude: 

• Say something nice to someone - a compliment, word of thanks, or recognition (there will be notes in the work room so you can share your gratitude with someone)
• Write your gratitude as a letter or in a notebook/journal 
• Show your gratitude with a gift Invite someone to spend time with you 
• Volunteer your time 
• Donate unwanted items, or support a cause

I am grateful for the people and practices at Willow.  These are the people that bring a smile to the faces of those they work with, all day every day.

• I am grateful for all of the people that come each day with the goal of helping students succeed.  Whether it's in the classroom, cafeteria, playground, office, or hallway - every single person on the Willow staff shows up each day with a focus on kids.  Some days are challenging, and still the staff returns the next day.  I know it's for the chocolate on Fridays - but everyone still comes back Monday thru Thursday!
• I am grateful for our specialists who provide opportunities for students to experience the arts, and to be exposed to things they may not otherwise do.  We are blessed with specialists who share their passions and talents in a way that captures the interest and engagement of our students.
• I am grateful for a crew of people that make sure things are in place to support staff and students every day.  Our building is ready (clean, repaired, and well-kept), food is prepared, curriculum is supported, technology is working, and resources are available. We all know it really does take a village.
• I am grateful for the smiles and laughter, and the way the staff encourages each other.  People are here for each other every day. The staff shows up for each other, especially on the days that are difficult.

Have a great week!