Social and psychology researchers have found that we can improve student behavior and achievement as well as reduce student and teacher stress by focusing on improving our self-stories and beliefs, confidence, self-care, and practicing mindfulness and self-compassion. Psychologist Abraham Maslow proposed in his "Hierarchy of Needs" that self-esteem (the need to feel loved and accepted by yourself and others) was essential for self-actualization -- or becoming the best you can be. However, Maslow believed self-esteem wasn't enough. Self-actualization also requires getting outside oneself, transcending the ego, and experiencing love of self and others, awe, and curiosity. This conference will show you how changing students' self-stories, concepts, and identity can improve their behavior and help them overcome trauma and self-doubt; why promoting mindfulness and self-compassion can reduce stress and boost achievement and self-actualization; how confidence, self-awareness, and curiosity increase learning; and ways practicing authenticity and self-care as educators can improve student engagement.

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