As someone who has been teaching for almost 20 years, I have to admit that I have always been the kind of teacher that really looks forward to the breaks. On long and stressful days, especially when I was a new teacher, I would immediately try to find relief in exploring plans and checking flight costs for March break or a summer vacation.
Just looking at a photo of the next destination or googling possible recreational activities could immediately calm my nerves and put a smile on my face. The time in between holidays and weekends became, at least in my mind, the time to just accept the “daily grind.”
As a much more experienced teacher, I will also admit that this activity still does help me on some days! Though I’ve also found that a better way to manage stress is to find something joyful or calming in the present – even in a hectic work environment.
Connecting with Colleagues
From the start of my career, I think having great colleagues and friends for conversation and connection makes the work day easier. As teachers, it is easy to prioritize efficiency and productivity to a point where you are constantly assessing, planning, and finding resources for the next lesson.
Taking time to stop, close the laptop or smartphone, and simply chat with colleagues during lunch or planning breaks can turn an overwhelming day into a calm one.
Taking a Walk
Getting out of your teaching or work environment can do wonders for your physical and mental health. I have had moments in my roles as a classroom teacher and a support teacher where a walk outdoors at lunch or simply around the building on a planning time can provide enough of a break to help me get some clarity and figure out my next steps.
The movement will also raise your spirits and help you to feel good too – especially if you turn on a favourite song as you walk!
Get a Good Laugh in
A good laugh will do wonders for any stressful situation. Thankfully, the internet and social media platforms have made it easy to find great comedy in a pinch. Whether it is memes, comedy routines, or satire, taking a quick peek at comedy accounts during your break can help you face the day with optimism and humour.
Focus on One Thing at a Time
When it feels like you have too much going on, it can make a big difference to rethink the way you do things. As a habitual multi-tasker, I find it can feel truly liberating to resist all the different factors vying for your attention and promise yourself to do one thing at a time. This way, you can get things done mindfully and thoroughly instead of doing it all at the same time.
Yes, multi-tasking is a skill that can make you feel highly productive and efficient. But “mono-tasking” has its own rewards, such as steering yourself to the present, becoming more self-aware, and ironically more productive than multi-tasking.
While this may not be a”joyful” activity, it can certainly feel good to refocus your attention and pay attention to what makes sense to focus on in the moment.
Final Thoughts
Finding joy and calm in day to day life is not always easy as a teacher. Some days, it can feel impossible! However, finding small and simple ways to find calm and engage in self-care can make the day much more enjoyable and less like a “grind”.
