Here we introduce what SEL is and why it is important for all teachers. We elaborate the need for the teacher to enhance her/his knowledge of self, especially his/her own social and emotional terrain. A guiding premise is that deeper teacher self-understanding facilitates and enhances deeper student relations and greater chances for the transformative possibilities for student and teacher. A related premise is that by examining our deeply held cherished beliefs and emotional responses to situations and texts, we create opportunities for further insights into why and the ways we teach.

Here we further elaborate the need for the teacher to enhance her/his knowledge of self, especially his/her emotional responses as well as deeply held beliefs.

The value of reflection on and examination of sadness, despair, and related emotions in teaching is seen as one example of an enhanced “granularity” offered to teachers through reflection on emotions.

The value of reflection on and examination of joy and passion, as well as other related emotions in teaching is seen as another example of an enhanced “granularity” that can be gained by teachers through a reflection on emotions.

By contrasting “grit” and “wholeness” in teaching and learning we explore further the value we as individuals place on these two orienting dispositions.