We are in the thick of Back-to-School season, and the signs are everywhere!
Walk down the aisle of any major store, and you’ll see bright Crayola boxes, binders, and folders of many colors.
If you’re a classroom teacher or school administrator, you may be feeling a mix of emotions, and I’m here to tell you – that is ok!
1) Say yes wisely (don’t overcommit just because it’s August) 2) Build your little “village” inside your school for support 3) Give yourself 10-minute reset rituals between the chaos
1) Say yes wisely (don’t overcommit just because it’s August)
While you may feel refreshed and ready to face the new school year (yay!), resist the urge to sign up for everything you see. Just because you can, doesn’t mean do it, doesn’t mean you should add more to your plate.
The way I evaluated what to add to my schedule is by asking myself, “Does this give me energy, or drain it?“
For example, joining a staff walking club in your school may be the nudge you need to make time for movement several times a week. However, coaching a sports team, paid or not, may be another way you’re spending your energy. And though you may enjoy it, recognize that you’re already spending so much of your energy
2) Build your little “village” inside your school for support
Hear me clearly – you don’t need to be friends with everyone. But you should prioritize finding your people! According to a recent study, “close friendships at work have the greatest positive impact on mental health”.
And you need all of that positive support! Make time for a grading party together with a fellow teacher friend. Prepping a classroom transformation? Swap Pinterest boards with the teacher across the hallway. Find small ways to start building your tribe in your school!
3) Give yourself 10-minute reset rituals between the chaos
My favorite anti-burnout hack is to schedule in rest!
When you sit down and plan out your week, I challenge you to schedule three 10-minute breaks for each school day. Try to use the break for deep breathing (I love the free version of the Calm App for that!), a short walk around your campus, or even stretching at your desk.
Your body is keeping track whether or not you are. Take care of it every day.
These suggestions are just the tip of the iceberg for how to move from burnout to bliss!
I would love to help you build a better tribe. I serve educators and organizations that need to save time and make more impact and money, but don’t want to compromise making meaningful change. Email hello@vimbowatson.com for more information.
Let’s build a better tribe together.
Your Friend,
Vimbo
