Your Journey to a meaningful life starts here
Thomas Groome writes in his book Educating for Life, “To be an educator is to stand on holy ground—people’s lives."
As educators, we take your lives seriously. You have come into this space with a history, full of stories and experiences, that have shaped your thoughts, questions, fears, doubts, and also your desires to learn and be present this journey. And all of it, all of who you are, is welcome here.
In the hustle and bustle of our daily lives, it's all too easy to get caught up in the routine, to-do lists, and the pursuit of success and material possessions. But have you ever paused to ask yourself a fundamental question: What truly makes life worth living?
This question lies at the heart of our human experience, transcending borders, cultures, and backgrounds. It's a question that philosophers, poets, scientists, and seekers of wisdom have contemplated for centuries. It's a question that touches on the very essence of our existence and the pursuit of a meaningful and fulfilling life.
At its core, the quest for a life worth living is a deeply personal journey.
Your Journey to a meaningful life starts here
Thomas Groome writes in his book Educating for Life, “To be an educator is to stand on holy ground—people’s lives."
As educators, we take your lives seriously. You have come into this space with a history, full of stories and experiences, that have shaped your thoughts, questions, fears, doubts, and also your desires to learn and be present this journey. And all of it, all of who you are, is welcome here.
In the hustle and bustle of our daily lives, it's all too easy to get caught up in the routine, to-do lists, and the pursuit of success and material possessions. But have you ever paused to ask yourself a fundamental question: What truly makes life worth living?
This question lies at the heart of our human experience, transcending borders, cultures, and backgrounds. It's a question that philosophers, poets, scientists, and seekers of wisdom have contemplated for centuries. It's a question that touches on the very essence of our existence and the pursuit of a meaningful and fulfilling life.
At its core, the quest for a life worth living is a deeply personal journey.
Life Worth Living: Caring for our Educators & Principals
Life Worth Living: Caring for our Educators and Principals (LIFE) is a personal development experience that is different from anything you have done before because it is rooted in the belief that there is no professional development without personal development. We invite you to join this journey.
During LIFE we invite you to become part of a cohort of teachers and principals who will be given a moment to pause, consider fundamental questions of life, to share and to listen with others, to gather your thoughts, so that you are empowered to know more clearly what matters in your life. Life Worth Living is a journey in which you will excavate/uncover and clarify the sense of meaning and purpose in your life through self-reflection, engagement and critical self-questioning.
Your Journey to a meaningful life starts here
Thomas Groome writes in his book Educating for Life, “To be an educator is to stand on holy ground—people’s lives."
As educators, we take your lives seriously. You have come into this space with a history, full of stories and experiences, that have shaped your thoughts, questions, fears, doubts, and also your desires to learn and be present this journey. And all of it, all of who you are, is welcome here.
In the hustle and bustle of our daily lives, it's all too easy to get caught up in the routine, to-do lists, and the pursuit of success and material possessions. But have you ever paused to ask yourself a fundamental question: What truly makes life worth living?
This question lies at the heart of our human experience, transcending borders, cultures, and backgrounds. It's a question that philosophers, poets, scientists, and seekers of wisdom have contemplated for centuries. It's a question that touches on the very essence of our existence and the pursuit of a meaningful and fulfilling life.
At its core, the quest for a life worth living is a deeply personal journey.
Objectives
Objectives
LIFE aims to
increase the well-being of educators and principals by increasing their sense of meaning in life. For far too long the weight of changing societal needs has been on the shoulders of schools, specifically educators and school leaders. This was true before the COVID 19 pandemic and became glaringly obvious during the pandemic, when it was demanded of schools to transform themselves overnight amidst global fear and uncertainty. Educators rose to the challenge across the world as they learned new technologies and worked hard to manage their own anxieties and families while continuing to provide calm and stability for all of their students. Now as the pandemic continues to recede, the weight on educators has only increased. Faced with the aftermath of the effects of COVID, schools and educators are observing students with high levels of anxiety, depression and ongoing absenteeism. There are calls from all nations for schools and educators to care for the mental well-being of the students who are suffering. While the situation for students is serious, the lack of care and focus for the wellbeing of the adults in schools, who are called upon to support the students, is glaring. As bell hooks has argued, educators cannot facilitate holistic student transformation if they themselves are not whole.
LIFE Methodology
Participation in the LIFE program is based on an application process and the ability to fully commit to the entirety of the project. Participation in the learning course is free of charge and accommodation and subsistence are provided during the retreats; please see country specific details in the call. The cost of participation in international retreat is also borne by the organizers.
Readings
Based on readings and research involves synthesizing existing knowledge and insights into a structured framework for evaluating and enhancing the quality of life. This methodology aims to provide a structured and evidence-based approach to assessing and enhancing the quality of life. It recognizes that a life worth living is a complex and multifaceted concept that requires a holistic and adaptable approach to measurement and improvement.
Retreats
National retreats for teachers and principals offer a rejuvenating experience, combining personal growth, cultural exploration, and meaningful connections with fellow educators worldwide. These retreats inspire a renewed passion for teaching and a deeper appreciation for life's fulfillment, creating resilient and inspired educators who, in turn, enrich their classrooms and communities.
Platform
LIFE hub not only offers a wealth of tools, insights, and inspiration for personal and professional growth but also fosters a global community of educators. Here, educators from every corner of the world connect, collaborate, and empower one another to create fulfilling lives and enhance their impact in the field of education. It's a virtual haven where personal and professional development.
Key Aspects of LIFE Journey
When you say yes to LIFE: Caring for our Educators and Principals you are saying yes to a journey and a process. It is a full commitment to being part of a national cohort which will come together in retreats to learn together, listen to one another and support each participant’s exploration and articulation of their vision of a flourishing life.
LIFE will offer 12 educators and principals in five countries the opportunity to take part in this experience.
Each country will bring together a life-giving learning community of educators and principals who will learning together in two in person 2-day retreats and continue their learning in two online learning modules and virtual meetings. These retreats will take place in each participating country and will be conducted in that country’s language.
Meaning & Purpose
Many philosophers and thinkers, such as Albert Camus and Jean-Paul Sartre, have explored the idea of finding meaning and purpose in life. A Life Worth Living often involves having a sense of purpose and pursuing goals or values that matter to you.
Happiness & Well-Being
Some people equate a Life Worth Living with happiness and well-being. It involves experiencing joy, contentment, and overall life satisfaction. Positive psychology has explored the factors that contribute to happiness and well-being.
Personal Growth
A Life Worth Living often involves continuous personal growth and self-improvement. This can include learning, self-discovery, and the pursuit of one's potential.
Relationships & Connection
Meaningful relationships and social connections are often considered essential for a Life Worth Living. These connections can provide support, love, and a sense of belonging.
Experiences & Adventure
Some people prioritize a life filled with experiences, adventures, and exploration. Travel, trying new things, and stepping out of one's comfort zone can be central to this perspective.
Balance & Well-Roundedness
Achieving balance in different areas of life, such as work, family, health, and leisure, is important for some in their pursuit of a Life Worth Living. Avoiding excessive focus on one area to the detriment of others is often seen as wise.
Values & Ethics
Many individuals find that aligning their life with their values and ethical principles is crucial for a Life Worth Living. Living in accordance with one's beliefs can lead to a sense of authenticity and fulfillment.
Resilience
Life is full of challenges and setbacks. Being able to adapt, bounce back from adversity, and cultivate resilience is considered important by many in their pursuit of a Life Worth Living.
Cultural Variations
It's important to note that what constitutes a Life Worth Living can vary greatly from one culture and individual to another. It is a highly personal and subjective concept.