Unflappable is an adjective sometimes used to describe those who have a remarkable level of calm and poise regardless of the chaos swirling around them. While others may be nervous, agitated, or just freaked out, they remain composed and able to deal with the situation.
That ability to keep things in perspective and respond instead of react is a powerful advantage, especially among educators. Whether through innate disposition or learned skills, it's enlightening that some people are just unflappable, staying calm and poised regardless of the chaos around them.
Our inner peace protects and guides others. When we sustain that serenity, we gain significant advantages in all circumstances because we make wiser decisions, stay on purpose, and are more trusted as leaders.
I am content; that is a blessing greater than riches;
and he to whom that is given need ask no more.
— Henry Fielding
Some movies are just loaded with teachable moments. I love how the writers put together the right combination of situations and insights that can become a tool for teaching. A few of my favorites that are loaded with great clips include:
- Second-Hand Lions
- A Few Good Men
- Groundhog Day
- Kung Fu Panda
For example, a subplot within the story of Kung Fu Panda is how Master Shifu struggles to find inner peace. He tries different methods and meditation mantras to achieve the wisdom and contentment that his teacher, Grand Master Oogway, attained and modeled. Yet, he just couldn't figure it out.
Are you still seeking that inner peace? Do you recognize it in others? People who have that inner peace are able to deal with the many challenges and chaos of each day with greater composure and success.
The greatest weapon against stress is our
ability to choose one thought over another.
— William James
In our devotion to colleagues and families, we have the privilege of loving them through birth, death, marriage, divorce, sickness, recovery, trauma, victory, and so many other real-life moments. These are vital connections in which we provide important guidance.
We learn from other people. Witnessing how they navigate through stressful and agonizing situations teaches us valuable insights about them and ourselves.
Some shut down.
Some struggle.
Some strengthen.
Some shine.
In our Weekly Encouragement for Educators email this week, I included a brief clip from the TV show This is Us that illustrates the impact of being unflappable. The writers and actors portray a meaningful moment of interaction that illustrates the challenge that we all have to survive.
No one gets a pass, and some figure out how to thrive anyway.
You will keep in perfect peace
those whose minds are steadfast,
because they trust in you.
— Isaiah 26:3
Presence, composure, and compassion are three of the essential blessings that educators contribute to their community. A sense of security is felt in our schools when the educators have steadfast hearts and minds.
Finding perfect peace is more than just an instantaneous decision—it's a daily journey of learning, practicing, and growing to be more and more like our Creator. A steadfast mind isn't stubbornly rigid, nor is it untethered in the tempest of opinion.
Forgiveness and grace contribute much to perfect peace, as do humility and prayer. Elevating our inner capacity for peace is a transforming process of spiritual growth and habits that reveal a mindset and resilience beyond what is possible otherwise.
Make time this week to raise your inner game, my friend, faithfully practicing the habits that bring peace to your heart, mind, and soul.