Mindfulness Dr. Joan Williams

I have worked in the field of education for over 38 years as a teacher, mentor, coach and supervisor. I strongly believe that as a learner and educator I must engage with and introduce learners to practices and tools which facilitate introspection, awaken and develop awareness of self relating with others in society and enhance one’s ability to befriend uncertainty. I have been influenced by the work of Michael Oakeshott and wish that as learners of life we perceive teachers as fellow learners walking ‘alongside us’, that we embrace education as an adventure into uncharted oceans of ideas filled with uncertainty without need or worry for a destination; converse with others, explore, ask questions and discover; take risks, make mistakes and move on. Mindfulness and mindful self-compassion are integral to all that I do.

I offer one to one developmental mentoring with mindful self-compassion for adults. Those who work with me are empowered to take responsibility for their own learning through creative activities and reflective dialogue. The creative and reflective processes enhance self-awareness and deep learning and boost confidence and well-being. I am a companion and guide within an enabling work relationship in a safe and empathetic environment.

I also offer the 8-week mindful self-compassion (MSC) course designed to cultivate the skill of self-compassion. ‘MSC teaches core principles and practices that enable participants to respond to difficult moments in their lives with kindness, care and understanding’ (Centre for Mindful self-compassion, January, 2019)

For me and those I work with the learning journey is without end.

May we all find a way to feel at home in the world where the only certainty is uncertainty and may we appreciate learning as an end in itself