Why am I writing this? Who am I to have any authority in a field I left? Idk, I can't tell you. All I can tell you is I still care. I still feel deeply for students, my students, teachers, admin and support staff. I still cringe when I see policies that aren't teacher or student friendly. I cry at legislation or decisions that aren't making it easier for you to do what you do. All I can say is I couldn't not get this out of my mouth. Even though imposter syndrome almost won.
So, on the eve of the first day with students in the district I worked in, screeching in at the last minute, I offer you this list. Hope you enjoy.
I love you.
1. Get a uniform.
Let's start on the surface. At the end of my teaching career, I hated getting dressed. I wasn't comfy. My coach Mei Ratz was like hey that is your body telling you something is wrong. Getting dressed was another decision that I felt "icky" about bc it wasn't easy and it took time. And I mostly stopped caring about my appearance bc I was burnt out. So, if I ever return to education, I will be going with a uniform. I'm talking 3-5 of the same tops and bottoms that make me feel fresh and confident. Or jumpsuits. But mostly just overalls, let's be real. Or if you still love clothes like I do, maybe pick 10 outfits and just rotate and tell anyone who notices to get bent. #normalizewearingthingsmultipletimesbeforewashing
Get a power outfit. Then get 5 of them. You're welcome.
2. Schedule something to look forward to every month. AT LEAST.
Doesn't have to cost money. Meet a friend for walk, no matter the weather. Schedule a "do nothing" day where you sit on the couch and don't feel bad for just couching it. Get a massage- physical touch is my love language and esp important if you are single or your person works away for long times. There are so many things to list. If you need help with ideas, hit me up.
3. Read books on burn out or how to leave work at work.
Teachers don't leave work at work. Insert so many other professions here but seriously. Ever hung out with a group of teachers? Teacher talk is real and all consuming. You are more than your teaching self. Try to find those parts of yourself when work is overwhelming. Here are some books:
Burn Out by Emily Nagoski
The Untethered Soul by Michael A. Singer
Kiss that Frog by Brian Tracy
The Four Agreements by Don Miguel Ruiz
When Things Fall Apart by Pema Chodron
Work Won't Love you Back by Sarah Jaffe
Tiny Beautiful Things by Cheryl Strayed
Atlas of the Heart by Brene Brown
4. Go to Therapy
Seriously. Sometimes we need help getting out of our own way. Sometimes we need someone to hear us other than our partner or best friend or parent. Bonus! This is something to look forward to. Therapy can count toward your deductible. And there is income based therapy. If you need help ask me. I will find an answer for you in this realm or find someone to help you find it.
5. Do less.
Just seriously. Say no to things that aren't a heart-racing hell yes. Go home and go to bed.
This is not a completed blog, but that's my offering at this time. Would love to hear your ideas.
I love you teachers. Thank you for doing the work you do.
3 comments
Teachers are the leaders of our world. Keep sane and loving.
I love you! I’m proud of you! I will forever support you!
Thank you. I love you.