Teacher burnout is a real and emotionally taxing mental state. Unfortunately, many teachers across this nation suffer from the effects that lead to teacher burnout, like intense stress, unrealistic expectations from administration, and a lack of respect.
Here are a few simple tips to help you conquer burnout.
Stay focused.
When you start feeling worn out, your mind becomes scattered with all the stress and extra work placed on your shoulders. This is the time to stay focused. Don’t become distracted by all the little things that pile up into a mountain. Instead, focus on one little thing at a time.
Make a countdown.
Whether you are reaching the end of the year or nearing a holiday break, make yourself a personal countdown in your planner or on your calendar. Something this simple can really help you stay focused on taking things one day at a time.
Finish on a high note.
Although end-of-year stress can become overwhelming, it is important to remember that the end of the school year is almost always stressful for every person in the world of education.
Take a big breath and remind yourself to finish on a high note. Repeat positive mantras to yourself or read positive affirmations daily to help you squeeze through to the finish line.
Stay organized.
Organization can be key to maintaining your sanity at the end of a school year. Staying organized will help you feel on top of things, even when you are bombarded with additional paperwork.
Create a task list.
Let your task list be your guide. Prioritize then tackle your list with a vengeance. Something as simple as a task list can really help you determine what is most important and then help you focus on getting those things done.
Prep ahead.
If you are not new to teaching, you know there are repetitive tasks that come year after year. Instead of scrambling to keep up with end-of-year checklists, prepare ahead by making your own checklist of things you know will have to be completed before closing out the year. This early prep will help ease a lot of your stress later.
Stay healthy.
Teachers are most notorious for neglecting self-care. Be aware and make conscious decisions that will benefit your health, not destroy it.
- Stay hydrated with water.
- Take frequent walks to clear your mind.
- Eat plenty of veggies and fruit.
Stay happy.
Above all, teachers can become so bogged down with worries and stress from school that we forget to step back, breathe, and enjoy the simpler things that bring us joy. Maybe it’s time to take a break or do something fun that makes you happy.