“Being a teacher is no-doubt a fulfilling career however it can also be exhausting, mentally and physically.”
Preventing work burnout is crucial for teachers to maintain their well-being and provide the best education to their students. When you first returned from the summer break you were probably set to implement new routines which helped set boundaries and get a better work / life balance but a few weeks in, are you able to keep them up?
Being a teacher is no-doubt a fulfilling career however it can also be exhausting, mentally and physically.
In research shared by Education Support, it was revealed that 8% of teachers described themselves as ‘stressed’ in the 2020 Teacher Wellbeing Index, 51% have considered leaving teaching in the last two years and 68% said ‘workload’ was their main reason for considering leaving.
Bearing that in mind, we’re sharing some bitesize techniques that may help you avoid burnout.
Remember: preventing burnout is an ongoing journey that requires continuous effort.
Each teacher’s experience is unique, so it’s important to tailor these strategies to your own needs and circumstances. Regularly assess how you’re feeling and make adjustments as needed to maintain a healthy work-life balance.
Set Boundaries: Establish clear boundaries between work and personal life. Avoid checking work emails or grading papers during your off-hours. Give yourself time to relax and recharge.
Practice Stress Management: Learn and practice stress management techniques like deep breathing, mindfulness, meditation, or yoga. These techniques can help you stay grounded and manage stress effectively.
Manage Workload: Break tasks into manageable chunks and set realistic expectations for yourself. Avoid overloading your schedule and delegate tasks when possible.
Seek Support: Don’t be afraid to ask for help or discuss your concerns with colleagues, mentors, or friends. Sharing your challenges can provide perspective and offer potential solutions.
Variety in Teaching Methods: Experiment with different teaching methods and activities to keep your classroom dynamic and engaging. This can help prevent monotony and keep both you and your students excited about learning.
Flexible Lesson Planning: Create flexible lesson plans that can adapt to unexpected changes. This will reduce stress when unforeseen circumstances arise.
Take Breaks: Incorporate short breaks throughout the day to relax and recharge. Even a few minutes of stretching or deep breathing can make a significant difference.
Set Realistic Goals: Avoid setting unrealistic expectations for yourself and your students. Break larger goals into smaller, achievable milestones.
Embrace Imperfection: Remember that perfection isn’t attainable. It’s okay to make mistakes and learn from them. Embrace a growth mindset and focus on continuous improvement.
Clear Communication: Establish open and transparent communication with students, parents, and colleagues. Clearly communicate your expectations, goals, and any changes in the curriculum to avoid misunderstandings and reduce stress.
Supportive Network: Build a support network of fellow educators who understand the challenges you face. Sharing experiences and advice with colleagues can offer valuable insights and a sense of camaraderie.
Learn to Say ‘No’: While it’s important to contribute to the school community, learn to say no when your plate is already full. Overcommitting can lead to burnout, so prioritize your existing responsibilities.
Physical Wellness: Pay attention to your physical health. Get adequate sleep, maintain a balanced diet, and engage in regular exercise. Physical well-being is closely connected to mental well-being.
Engage in Passion Projects: Dedicate some time to pursue your own educational interests or projects. This can reignite your passion for teaching and provide a sense of fulfilment.
Mindful Transitions: Create mindful transitions between activities in your classroom. Incorporate moments of relaxation, deep breathing, or brief stretches to help both you and your students reset.
Seek Professional Help: If you’re feeling overwhelmed or experiencing prolonged stress, consider seeking support from a counsellor, therapist, or other mental health professional.
