The One-Word Boundary

Wellness Quick tips for Teachers
Written By Cynthia Skyers-Gordon

Educators are often asked to give more—more time, more patience, more flexibility.
Without boundaries, even meaningful work can become overwhelming.

The One-Word Boundary is a wellness practice that helps educators protect their energy without long explanations or guilt.

How to Use This Activity

  • At the start of the week, choose one word that represents how you want to protect your energy.
    Examples: steady, gentle, protect, pause, honor

  • Write the word on a sticky note or in your planner.

  • Let this word guide your decisions throughout the week.

  • When faced with a request, silently ask:
    Does this align with my word?

Why This Matters

Boundaries don’t need to be complicated.
This activity builds clarity, self-trust, and emotional regulation—essential tools for sustainable leadership.

Closing Reflection

Boundaries are not walls.
They are pathways that help you lead with intention.

Cynthia Skyers-Gordon

Dr. Cynthia Skyers-Gordon, Ed.D. is the founder of SILWELL-C (Staff-Inspired Leadership for Wellness and Calm), a wellness initiative created to empower educators, leaders, and teams to thrive from within. With more than 33 years of experience in early childhood education, from assistant teacher to director to Education Coordinator, Dr. Skyers-Gordon understands the challenges and opportunities staff face each day.

SILWELL-C was born from her belief that true wellness in schools starts with the staff themselves. By providing calm leadership strategies, practical tools, affirmations, and inspiration, SILWELL-C equips educators and leaders to create supportive, balanced environments where both staff and children can flourish.

Through workshops, consultations, and creative resources, Dr. Skyers-Gordon combines her in-depth expertise with a passion for cultivating resilience, connection, and calm in every space. Whether it’s through her upcoming Wellness Toolkit, the JamBel Storybook, or the Free Wellness Hub, she continues to design practical ways for educators and leaders to sustain their own wellness while inspiring others.

At its core, SILWELL-C is more than a program; it’s a movement: a reminder that when staff lead with wellness, schools grow with strength, calm, and confidence.

https://www.silwellc.com
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