How These Vibrant Little Green Babies Inspire and Encourage me to Bend and not Break as an ESL Teacher

My first purchased set

In all honesty, joining this platform gave me a lot of hesitation. Writing an article isn't my strong suit; however, when I'm already here, I've just discovered that I slowly enjoy writing (not to brag with this second post), although it's a struggle. Yes, I am an ESL teacher, but I'm not self-assured about article writing. The thing is, there's a big difference when you're writing and when you're not; I can't have a lot on my plate and handles them well, however I was challenged and said to myself why not give it a try? only to found out lately that this platform might be a big help for me. I'm a bit plain but not too reserved-- staying at home all day or even all the time is happiness for me, bringing the kids to their favorite places to eat and unwind is enough reason that they won't mutter about me having no time for them at all, cooking my close friends foods when they visit me at home, and so forth. You can guess how shallow I am. I have high hopes that I can linger on this platform and make myself grow similar to my succulents and cacti.
Additionally, I also expect that you will find time to read my random posts in the future too, and you will not be bored.

My colorful Echeverias

To move on, today in my following post I want to talk about my beautiful little green babies and how relevant they are in my profession. To start with, I can say that teaching English as a second language can be both rewarding and challenging. It fully entails your patience, adaptability, and commitment to guarantee that students understand new concepts and enhance their confidence in their language skills. As teachers, we are more focused on our students' progress than we tend to forget to take care of ourselves as well. Eventually, out of the blue, I discovered an efficient way to find balance--succulents and cacti.

My second purchased set

At first, I was attracted to their distinctive shapes and colors, however, I soon realized that the plants offered more than their aesthetic charm they possess. Their ability to recover quickly, minimal care requirements, and their slow but stable growth turned into an expressive journey I experience with my students. I found a new appreciation for patience, a sense of calm in the middle of a busy teaching schedule, and even fresh ways to make my lessons encouraging and engaging through nurturing them.
T'was the beginning of considering them as the perfect plants for busy teachers. One of the biggest challenges that I endured from this industry is managing time (let alone I'm a mom and have kids too). Between lesson planning, students' assessments, and professional development, I find no room for hobbies that demand constant attention---this is where succulents and cacti came in the picture. They flourish with minimal supervision and care, needing only occasional watering and sufficient sunlight. Unlike other houseplants that are sensitive and may wither without delay maintenance, these plants are flexible and forgiving, thus making them the perfect buddy for ESL teachers with busy schedules.
Their ability to thrive in tough circumstances serves as a daily reminder that progress is gradual, and it takes time. Just as students' language development does not happen overnight, succulents and cacti grow slowly, presenting the strength of determination and small but consistent efforts. This bond has deepened my appreciation for the process of learning, helping me maintain my patience and positivity in my teaching method.
Teaching can be overwhelming, especially in balancing many students with wide-ranging skills. There are days when students' progress seems slow and lesson planning feels endless. Having the plants in my workplace provides a small but meaningful way to de-stress. Like caring for dogs or any animals that can be pet, the plants can lower anxiety, depression, increase focus, and improve overall well-being. My simple ways of watering them, watching them grow, and reorganizing them in my expressive ways help me be calm and mindful. This connection truly enhances my teaching space as well. For me, a touch of greenery for a home office creates a more inviting and relaxing environment.
Here are some of those little green babies I have ( I hope I got the correct names for them). They aren't rare, but they are equally special to me.






These plants have become more than just plants to me---they are a source of relaxation, a teaching tool, and a reminder of the slow but rewarding journey of learning.

To my fellow teachers, if you are looking for a simple way to bring more joy and balance, I strongly recommend starting your own succulents and cacti collection. I assure you that they will not only brighten your space but they will bring fresh perspective of growth, learning, and perseverance.

And that's it--- Life is like a succulent and a cactus--slow growth, but tough with their strong roots. Fingers crossed for more random written articles. Thank you so much for passing by, dears!😘

Notes: Photo collages are credited to Canva
Photo edits are credited to the Snapseed App