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Teaching is stressful. There is probably not one teacher who
would tell you otherwise, and if they did, they are lying! So,
teaching is stressful, but you do it because it is your passion
to teach kids and build a better tomorrow. Take a look at some
ways you can avoid teacher burnout, and keep your momentum in
the right place.
Take "Me Time" Regularly
Your family undoubtedly feels the burden of your stress, as well
as you. It's hard to come home from a rough day and not want to
rant and rave about the things that are getting to you. It's natural.
One way to combat these feelings is to take some time for yourself
and pamper yourself. Perhaps a trip to the mall or a manicure
works for you. Other things you can do are to take a book to a
coffee house and just read and drink your favorite flavor of coffee.
There are thousands of ways you can take some time to yourself.
Your family will understand.
Join a Gym
Burn off some steam with a good workout routine. Why do you think
so many Curves and Lady Fitness gyms are popping up everywhere?
It is because working out is a proven stress reliever. Being in
shape helps you focus better and handle stressful situations a
little more calmly.
Have a Routine
Making sure that you have daily classroom routines will save
you lots of stress and worry. Being prepared also helps to reduce
stress. It takes some time in the beginning to set up your routines,
but it will be worth it in the long run.
Elicit Help Where You Can
There are parents and other volunteers who are ready and able
to help you out with your classroom duties. Try assigning certain
jobs to these individuals. They will feel so glad to be part of
the class, and you will have taken some burden off of yourself.
Everyone knows that a teacher leads a busy life both in and out
of the classroom, so asking for help is not something you should
hesitate to do.
Make Your Home a Home
This may take some practice, but don't play teacher at home.
When you enter your house, drop the teaching role and be a wife
and/or mom. Phrases like, "Let's think about this…" or "Why don't
we try…" are just annoying to your family. You have an inner personality
that is different than your teaching attitude, so use it to your
advantage.
Let the Small Stuff Go
Teachers have a way of being perfectionist. They want everything
to look and be just so. After all, what will the other teachers
say if your bulletin board border isn't even? There are things
that you can just not worry about, and it won't make any difference
on how well you teach your students. For example, buying the latest
and greatest gadgets for your classroom may look fancy, but if
you have to learn how to use them, aren't you just adding another
serving to your plate? Get back to the basics, and get on with
teaching your students what they need to know.
Don't Let Go of Why You Teach
Simply reminding yourself of why you are a teacher will help
relieve some of your stress. It may even actually bring a smile
to your face. Kids are our future. Without teachers like you to
teach them important skills and information, where would our country
be in 15 to 20 years? Scary though, eh? You are doing something
so vital, and you should feel proud of your accomplishments each
time a school year ends and another begins. Go ahead, pat yourself
on the back, and keep remembering that you are a TEACHER!
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