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Lead with Love

“Would things change if I set about to make love the one rule for the way I encounter all other people?” (Fr Jim Mockler) 

The way we see ourselves, each other, and the world around us can shape how we understand the situations and people in our life. Sometimes this is good, but sometimes we can get stuck in a “thinking trap” of unhelpful or unrealistic thoughts. This can influence how we think and feel about everyone, including ourselves.  Replacing unhelpful negative thoughts with calmer more realistic thoughts can lead to better ways of managing challenges.  

One way that we can do this to look at situations from a perspective of love. When we lead with love, we learn to respond to ourselves and others with kindness and compassion. We practise appreciating and sharing the unique gifts we’ve been given from God while recognizing and celebrating the unique gifts of those around us. The more we practise leading with love, the more our brain learns to use love as the default path.  

In today’s Wellness Wednesday, we practise a strategy to lead with love. 

 

Try this: 

As a class, group, or family:  

  • Try practising affirmations. Affirmations are simple phrases or statements that challenge negative or unhelpful thoughts. These phrases remind us of our value and help us to think more realistically or positively about ourselves or a situation. When we use affirmations, we reinforce the loving path in our brains.  Giving affirmations to ourselves and others helps us to notice the good qualities and reinforce kindness so that everyone feels valued and important.  
  • Start with a four finger affirmation to yourself (https://smho-smso.ca/fw/positive-motivation-and-perseverance/reframing/four-finger-affirmation/). Write or think of a four-word affirmation. Each word you choose will match a finger in your hand. As you say your affirmation, match each finger with your thumb; one finger per word. Examples include “I can do this” “God is with me” “I am loved today” “My heart is good” “I believe in me” “I can be awesome”.  
  • Take a minute to write or think of a few ideas, then invite people to share with the group.  
  • Now that you have extended love to yourself, create a ripple effect and extend love to others in your life. (i.e., family, colleagues, peers, teachers, school staff, coaches, etc.).  By noticing good qualities in others and reinforcing love and kindness, those around us also feel valued.  
  • Together, think of ways to “pay it forward”( https://smho-smso.ca/fw/healthy-relationship-skills/empathy/pay-it-forward/).   
  • Here are some more affirmations you could offer others: 
  • To a friend: “You are so patient. Thanks for helping me understand my homework.” 
  • To an educator: “Class was fun today. I appreciate the amazing job you’re doing.” 
  • To a peer: “I hope you have a great day today!” 
  • To a parent: “You do a lot to support me. Thank you.” 

 

 

Ask yourself, there is no wrong answer: 

Is there a specific situation or relationship that could change if I affirmed myself or someone else?  

How can I practice leading with love today?  

 

Connecting to our faith: 

“Let all that you do be done in love.” (1 Corinthians 16:14) 

The readings on Palm Sunday help us to reflect on God’s love for us and the Pascal Mystery. By loving ourselves and appreciating the unique gifts we have been given, we live in the image of Jesus, who showed us the true meaning of love and the nature of God.  Loving oneself is part of being fully alive.  

Seeing the good in others is one way to move closer to God. This allows us to become more accepting of others, thereby strengthening our relationships and growing compassionate communities. 

“Jesus, the Risen Lord, loves us without limits and is there at every moment of our lives.” (Pope Francis) 

 

Further Learning: 

 

 

Employees of LDCSB check out WorkLifeHealth from EAP Provider Morneau Sheppell.  

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