Shane’s Story - Teaching Others
My journey with gratitude began during a particularly challenging phase of my academic career when the pressures of developing new courses and maintaining research momentum felt overwhelming. I was a tenure-track professor deeply immersed in integrating AI into educational practices and fostering mindfulness in entrepreneurial education. This period, dense with responsibilities, was intellectually fulfilling yet personally draining.
The shift towards gratitude started subtly. It was during a conference on educational innovations where a fellow speaker discussed the transformative power of gratitude in personal and professional realms. Inspired, I decided to integrate small gratitude practices into my daily routine. Each morning, before diving into emails or planning lectures, I took a few minutes to jot down three things I was grateful for. This simple act, though small, gradually changed my perspective.
One experience stands out vividly. I was working late on a grant proposal, feeling stressed about the impending deadline and uncertain about the outcome. Just then, I received an email from a former student thanking me for the mentorship and how a course I taught had significantly impacted their career trajectory. This message was a beacon of light, reminding me of the real impact of my work beyond papers and proposals. It was a moment of profound gratitude—not just for the kind words but for the opportunity to influence and contribute positively to someone's life.
This practice of gratitude didn't just enhance my emotional resilience; it improved my relationships with colleagues and students. Acknowledging their efforts and expressing genuine appreciation fostered a more collaborative and supportive environment. Gratitude became a lens through which I viewed my work and interactions, enriching my professional engagements and deepening personal connections.
Challenges, of course, persist. There are days when finding things to be grateful for seemed almost impossible, especially when facing bureaucratic hurdles or project setbacks. During these times, I am starting to lean more heavily on Gratitude Plus, an app that prompts me to find gratitude in small everyday moments and provided a platform to reflect on positive aspects, even on daunting days.
Practicing gratitude has fundamentally altered my approach to life and work. It has taught me to value the present, cherish achievements, and embrace challenges as opportunities for growth. As I continue on this path, I see gratitude not just as a practice but as a guiding principle for future endeavors, ensuring that no matter what lies ahead, I can navigate it with a thankful heart and a hopeful spirit.
Check out Shane’s LinkedIn to learn more about what he is working on!
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