By Shantel Patt: August 27, 2025

Remember why you started teaching in the first place? That spark — the hope, the passion, the desire to make a difference?

Sometimes, the noise of day-to-day demands makes that spark hard to hear. But reconnecting with your personal purpose can be a powerful way to reignite joy and motivation.

How to reconnect

• Reflect on your “why.” Write down what brought you to teaching and what you hope to give your students.
• Visualize your ideal classroom. Imagine what success looks like—not in test scores, but in growth, relationships, and learning.
• Seek stories of impact. Recall or collect moments when you made a difference, big or small.
• Set purpose-driven goals. Choose small, meaningful goals that align with your core reasons for teaching.

Keep the purpose alive

Purpose isn’t a destination — it’s a compass. Checking in regularly can help you navigate tough days and celebrate the good ones.