Hi, I’m Bekka Seer, a school social worker for Meridian Public Schools and a member of the Midland Area Wellbeing Coalition. Today, I want to share Life Hack #5, Turn and Face.
I use this life hack both at work and at home. Professionally, it helps me build strong relationships with my high school students by giving them my full attention, even if it’s just stopping in the hall to say good morning. This small act of turning towards them and acknowledging their presence really strengthens our connection and enhances the culture of our school.
In my office, if a student comes in while I’m busy, I make a point to turn, face them, and let them know I’ll be with them shortly. This helps them feel seen and reassured, which is crucial, especially for high schoolers.
At home, with two kids under three, I use this life hack when I’m in the middle of something, I tell them what I’m doing and that I’ll play with them once I’m finished. This way, they feel heard and often don’t feel the need to keep asking for my attention. It makes me feel like a more attentive mom, and it sets clear expectations for them.
I’ve learned that it’s also important to give myself grace when using this life hack. It’s okay to protect my time at work and at home. Balancing tasks and attention helps me support both my students and my children while also taking care of my responsibilities.
If you’re trying this life hack for the first time, start with someone who can understand the reasoning behind it, like a coworker or an adult. It can also help you to notice how it feels when others use this life hack in conversation with you. Noticing how others are already using this life hack can give you some good ideas to how to bring it into your work life, your home life, or anywhere.
