Discernment invites us to pause before responding. It helps us notice our nervous system signals, such as tight shoulders, a rising tone, and a clenched jaw, and ask: What’s driving this moment? The student’s behavior, or my need to win? Discernment shifts us from reactivity to intentional leadership. From “What just happened?” to “What’s actually happening here, and why?”

Discernment is clarity under pressure. It’s the ability to slow down, observe what’s really going on (in the student and yourself), and choose a response that aligns with your values. Discernment says:

“I can notice without judging.”

“I don’t need to win this moment, I need to understand it.”

“I can hold boundaries without losing my peace.”

It’s not about avoiding hard things. It’s about meeting them with wisdom instead of reactivity.