If you’ve ever asked an educator, “How are you doing?” you’ve probably heard some familiar responses. If this were Family Feud, the top answers would likely be “Tired,” “Fine,” and “Okay.” These default answers speak to the challenges of teaching—but they also miss something deeper.
During a recent keynote, I shared a story about an educator I spoke with. When I asked them how they were doing, they initially said “tired” out of habit. Then they paused, reflected for a moment, and added, “Wait. I actually got a lot of rest this weekend. Things are busy, but I’m doing really well.” That small moment was a reminder of how often we operate on autopilot, defaulting to what’s familiar instead of reflecting on what’s true. And when it comes to our happiness, sometimes it’s about recognizing the moments of happiness that you experience—even as other things, like busyness or disappointment, are happening too.
As educators, our work is rarely one-dimensional. We can feel stretched thin by lesson planning yet fulfilled when we see our students grow. We can be overwhelmed by changes in curriculum yet proud of the content and pedagogical knowledge we're building. These mixed emotions are normal, but often, it’s the negative ones that rise to the surface first.
That’s because our brains are wired to focus on what’s wrong—it’s a survival mechanism. But here’s the good news: Gratitude gives us a way to interrupt that negativity bias and uncover the happiness already present in our lives.
Gratitude doesn’t have to be time-consuming or complicated. It starts with one simple question: What’s one thing I’m grateful for right now?
Right now, think about something small that made you smile today—maybe it was a student’s comment. (I jumped on the bandwagon of asking children to finish old sayings and asked a student to finish the phrase "All good things must..." and they said, "go to the fortunate." Their answer made me smile!) Or maybe it was the help or encouragement of a supportive colleague. And don't overlook the little things- that first of second cup of coffee totally counts too! By naming and noticing something good, you’re shifting your mindset. You’re reminding yourself that joy can coexist with everything else you’re feeling. Also psychological studies have found that a single act of thoughtful gratitude produces an immediate 10% increase in happiness, and a 35% reduction in depressive symptoms.
Here’s a challenge: The next time someone asks, “How are you?” pause before responding. Reflect for just a moment and share something you’re grateful for. Notice how it changes how you feel—and even how others respond.
As teachers, cultivating gratitude is more than a personal habit; it’s a way to show up for our students, colleagues, and ourselves with renewed energy. When your cup is full, you can pour into others, creating a ripple effect of positivity that transforms not only your classroom but the entire school community.
Happiness isn’t a destination—it’s something we uncover every day, one moment of gratitude at a time.
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