Helping
other people Matters
On the surface, helping others
might seem like a common goal, easily pushed aside by the busyness of life. But
for me, it's a core principle. When I consider how to spend my time, how to
make a real difference, helping others consistently top priority.
Helping other
people is never a Waste of Time
The doubt can hit hard sometimes,
especially in school counseling. You pour your heart into helping students, but
questioning the impact can be a real struggle. Did my strategies truly help
that student struggling with writing? Will they all become famous authors? It's easy to fall into the trap of measuring
success by a single, specific outcome.
But that's a short-sighted view. The
student who might not become a professional writer might gain invaluable
confidence in expressing themselves. They might learn valuable life skills
through the writing process. And that's a win. The same goes for students
facing other challenges. The focus in school counseling isn't just about
achieving specific goals or mastering skills. It's about the journey, the
growth mindset we cultivate, and the connection we build. It's about being a
steady, caring presence who shows students they're not alone. It's about
empowering them to navigate challenges and discover their full potential. That's
where the real impact lies – not in a quick fix, but in the journey we walk
together.
Everyone
could Benefit from some Company
At the core of my approach to
school counseling lies the belief in the power of presence. Students often
confide in their counselor, sharing deeply personal experiences, past traumas,
or confusing emotions. In these moments, I don't focus on finding solutions or
offering quick fixes. Instead, I prioritize creating a safe space where they
feel heard and acknowledged.
It's easy to feel overwhelmed by
another person's pain and withdraw. However, I believe in the importance of
being present, of truly seeing the student beyond their immediate struggles. It
is the shift from "fixing" to simply "being there." The
most powerful support comes from simply being a consistent, caring presence. By
acknowledging their challenges and showing genuine empathy, I empower students
to navigate difficult emotions and explore solutions on their own terms.