EHP FYI

The ability to understand and recognize your own thoughts, emotions and behaviors is referred to as "self-awareness." It means knowing your strengths and weaknesses, your beliefs and values, your personality traits, and how you feel in different situations. Self-awareness is a valuable skill for personal and professional development because it allows you to make better decisions, form stronger relationships and improve your overall well-being.

While I was a member of a local nonprofit, I recall a specific leader meeting. I didn't agree with the direction they were proposing as the leader was speaking. You noticed that "I" did not agree; you can see where this is going. Fast forward a few minutes, and I'm in full-fledged adult pout mode—so much so that one of the people I respected tried to get my attention by telling me to fix my face. They pointed at my face, but I wasn't paying attention to the rest of my posture. I was slouched in my chair, had my legs and arms crossed and fists clenched.

Still in my ego, I became irritated that "I" had let this stupid meeting get to me. I was just trying to get out of there, knowing this was a big fail, but not before the leader could say something to me. They took me aside and basically gave me the most gentle feedback I'd ever received; I was expecting an Army version with a couple of expletives. But it was all about making me aware of how I was affecting the environment. It was about being someone who adds value rather than being a detractor.

Pay attention, because I'm about to impart some serious wisdom to you. Being self-aware is almost like a life cheat code. You can manage your emotions like a pro and make good decisions for yourself. Isn't it bizarre?

Here are several ways to cultivate your own self-awareness:

• Be reflective: Take some time every day to reflect on your thoughts and feelings. Consider what caused certain emotions or reactions and how you can respond in a more constructive manner.

• Practice mindfulness: Practice being in the moment and paying attention to your thoughts and emotions without passing judgment. This can help you become more aware of your automatic responses and behavioral patterns.

• Seek feedback: Seek feedback from others, including friends, family and co-workers. This can help you see your strengths and weaknesses from a different angle and find places where you can improve.

Self-awareness can also boost your self-confidence, which is similar to having a personal cheer squad cheering you on at all times. Don't even get me started on how it can help you with relationships.

But here are a few more tips!

• Utilize self-assessment tools: Use self-assessment tools like personality tests, strengths assessments and emotional intelligence tests. These can assist you in gaining insight into your own strengths and weaknesses, as well as how to use them to achieve your goals.

• Seek therapy or coaching: You might want to work with a therapist or coach to help you figure out how to grow and develop as a person by exploring your thoughts and feelings and coming up with plans for doing so. These are two different types of professional support, so do your homework and choose what's right for you.

By becoming more self-aware, you can improve your ability to communicate, handle your emotions and make decisions that are better for you. This can lead to greater self-confidence, better relationships and a more fulfilling life. So what are you waiting for? Get on that self-awareness train and ride it all the way to the land of awesome. Trust me, you won't regret it.

-April 2023 written for Forbes by Lawrence Henderson

The world is constantly changing – for better or for worse – and it can be overwhelming to deal with everything going on around you. While society is getting more comfortable discussing mental health, it can still be hard to know “Where to Start” when it comes to taking care of your own well-being.

This May, Mental Health America will help you:

• LEARN how modern life affects mental health with new resources to navigate our changing world.
• ACT by building your coping toolbox so you can manage stress, difficult emotions, and challenging situations.
• ADVOCATE to improve mental health for yourself, your friends and family, and your community.

For anyone struggling with the pressure of today's world, feeling alone, or wondering if they can feel better, this is Where to Start.

Employee Health Promotions is made possible through a partnership with South Central Service Coop. This work, which focuses on the health and wellness of all Mankato Area Public Schools employees, provides opportunities for you to take action:

Read This: Medical Insurance Coverage Changes for MAPS Employees,

Health Insurance Deduction Schedule 2024-25

Medical Insurance Coverage FAQ

Visit This: Employee Benefits page for resource details

Bring your Staff ID and Attend: Water Aerobics and Lap Swim at East Pool

Mark Your Calendar: Employee Benefits Virtual Fair May 8 - 22

All you have to do is complete at least 15 challenge days on the Wellness Calendar, record your progress on this spreadsheet and you will be entered to win one of many state park passes. Winners will be randomly selected.

Mankato Area ABE works collaboratively with community partners to provide adult learners educational opportunities to acquire and improve the literacy skills necessary to become self-sufficient and to participate effectively as productive workers, family members, and citizens. The consortium serves 6 school districts in South Central Minnesota: MAPS (fiscal agent), New Ulm, Sleepy Eye, Maple River, Lake Crystal, St. Clair. Programming sites include: BEC Jail, Lincoln Community Center, South Central College, New Ulm Library. The team gathered recently for an evening potluck, stretch break and opportunity to connect, while reviewing their annual program data.

1 c. Hy-Vee Select frozen petite green peas

1. Place a steamer basket in a medium saucepan. Add enough water so water is just below basket. Bring water to a boil over medium-high heat. Place frozen peas in the basket; reduce heat to medium. Cover saucepan and steam for 3 to 5 minutes or until tender. Transfer peas to a bowl to cool.

2. Place peas and avocado in a food processor. Cover and process on high for 1 to 2 minutes or until desired consistency. Transfer to a bowl; stir in ¼ cup pico de gallo. If desired, cover and refrigerate up to 1 day.

3. To serve, garnish with additional pico de gallo, salt, pepper and cilantro, if desired. Serve with tortilla chips.