ITAG 2017 Conference

We all want to be seen, to heard, to be understood. When we do not have sense of belonging, we are unheard, invisible, when we feel like we do not count, we feel “less than”, inadequate and “not enough” no matter what we do. This is a common feeling for our talented and gifted students, but for us as teachers, parents and administrators too. In teaching, where one’s competence is constantly under scrutiny, the basic motivation to overcome may turn into constant questioning of one’s abilities and competence. Sometimes we trick ourselves by believing that we have to be better to be good enough, this belief starts a never ending downward spiral. It freezes us with feelings of inadequacy and insufficiency. The purpose of this session is to learn some self-care practices, to understand the psychology behind feelings of not being enough and develop strategies to nurture ourselves. Participants will learn and practice self-compassion, self-encouragement, unconditional self-acceptance, self-nurturing and as a result will develop the courage to be imperfect. You will be seen, heard and nurtured as you learn to see, hear and nurture yourself.