It always feels like there is something going on, doesn’t it?! Right when you start to feel like you’re getting caught up, another curve ball comes your way to manage.
I get it.
These last few years have been challenging and for me personally, it has taken all the skills and resources I have accumulated in order to successfully manage the ups and downs that life has thrown at me recently.
Today I’m sharing with you 9 bite-sized tips to help you feel joyfully balanced this school year…
And if you feel like you need extra support, please do reach out.
Book a complimentary session here.
I would love to support you in living your best life, in and our of the classroom. My “office hours” are after school hours and on weekends, to ensure we can connect at a time that works best for you.
1. Self-Support
As educators, we pour our energy into others all day, so don’t forget to refill your own cup. After a long day in the classroom, try taking a 10-minute walk, brewing your favorite tea, or setting aside 20 minutes to read a book unrelated to schoolwork.
Pro Tip: Spend 15 minutes in silence either before heading home or if you have a quiet space at home. This short pause helps transition from classroom to personal life.
Read this blog on the importance of refilling your own cup: https://balanceforeducators.com/you-cant-pour-from-an-empty-cup/
2. Find Moments of Joy
Even on tough days, find moments of joy. Maybe it’s a student finally understanding a challenging concept, a funny moment during recess or a lively conversation during lunch. What’s one small win you’ve had this week?
3. Practice Gratitude
Gratitude doesn’t just transform your personal life; it can transform your teaching too. Start class with one thing you’re grateful for today, whether it’s a supportive colleague or the progress of a student. Ask your students to participate and spread the joy. It can help shift the classroom energy, starting off the class period with a more positive outlook.
4. Integrate Wellness Practices into Your Everyday Life
Avoid teacher burnout by creating a balanced life, in and out of the classroom. One way to do that? Create your own personalized “Wellness” checklist. A few examples:
- Did you eat at least 3 meals today?
- Did you drink a sufficient amount of water?
- Did you move your body intentionally?
- Did you take moments to pause and breathe?
Have a tendency to forget to do the above? Set a reminder on your phone!
5. Ensure you have time away from schoolwork
The weekend isn’t for lesson planning.* Set aside time to disconnect from work—whether it’s going for a hike, watching a movie with friends, or going to your local farmers market. Remember, a refreshed mind leads to a more productive week.
*As much as possible, keep lesson planning and grading papers during school hours. If you’re unsure how to incorporate that into your day, reach out and let’s chat!
6. Set Boundaries
One of the hardest things we can do – but one of the most important – is learning how to set boundaries. This could mean not answering work emails after 3pm or dedicating your lunch to personal time to eat and pause instead of continuing school tasks. What is one boundary you need to set to honor your personal time this school year?
Have a hard time saying “NO?” Book a complimentary call and let’s figure out ways together that will help you set boundaries while honoring your relationships and commitments.
7. Work Smarter
Learn how to work smarter throughout the day, rather than harder. A few ways to be more productive:
- Batch similar tasks
- Set a timer – google “pomodoro technique” for an example
- Use templates for planning
- Repurpose what you know works
8. Find Micro-Moments Throughout Your Day
Take “micro” moments of mindfulness throughout the day. We think we need to meditate for a long time to see results. In reality, a “reset” can happen in less than a minute! Here are 3 ways:
- Try this simple breathing technique: inhale for 4 counts, hold for 4, exhale for 4 and hold for 4. Repeat this for just one minute to regain focus and balance during your busiest days.
- If that feels a little too challenging, just focus on your breath, without counting or watching a timer.
- Stretch at your desk – lift your arms up, over your head and gently move your torso from side to side.
- These subtle practices are quick and easy ways to create a shift in your energy levels.
9. Be Flexible
Appreciate a well-structured classroom while also allowing for flexibility. Let there be space for spontaneous discussions, creative projects, or fun moments that come up unexpectedly. While structure provides stability, some of the best learning happens when plans take an unexpected turn. Accepting these shifts not only improves learning but also models resilience for your students, teaching them how to manage changes and delays with ease.
