I realized as I started this project that this list could become counter productive. Many teachers feel so overwhelmed that a big list of ways to to improve, even SMALL ways, can seem like an impossible task. Never fear though, I have written several steps to help keep you in a growth mindset. And if you’re having a week where you are really struggling it’s okay not to add anything at all! Just jump back in when you’re ready. Remembering that your students’ growth is not ruined in one week, or month, or even school year is a healthy mindset. Keep moving forward.
What It Does For You
- Helps keep you focused on the next do-able step.
- Allows forgiveness.
- Gives yourself space to improve.
- Provides a positive mindset to keep working even if things are not perfect.
How To Do It
When you’re feeling so overwhelmed that you cannot get your regular workload finished, follow these steps:
- Get off your phone. Unless you are reading something about reducing stress or venting to a friend, turn it off. All you’ll accomplish is to compare yourself, waste your time, and become more frustrated.
- Make a small list (mentally or physically) about what you need to get done for the next day of work.
- Prioritize those tasks. Do them quickly and just passable. This doesn’t need to be your best work.
- Then stop working and pick one activity to reduce stress.
- You are worth missing whatever “X,Y, and Z” you had planned in order to relax.
Once you’re feeling more positive and in control, THEN add one extra teaching practice a week. You can’t add everything at once. Pick something that seems doable and then reward yourself for completing it.
Wrapping It Up
Here’s the thing, you’re worth it. You are important person, teacher, parent, friend, sister, brother, coworker, etc. You are a part of a lot of people’s lives. Keeping yourself sane, stable, and reliable will help everyone. So help yourself out, takes things one step at a time!