Managing the Duldrums
In my experience, this is the time of year (February) when teachers tend to feel a bit of lackluster energy and even some burnout. There are few holidays, if any, until spring break, curriculum requirements become stressful, it is still mid-winter, and our students too, are expressing their burnout in their own teenage ways! The question for each of us is what can we do to remain energetic, focused, professional and on top of our game?
While the question is stronger than the suggestions, we can use some, or all, of the following to help take the edge off until spring break.
1. Acknowledge It! Being aware of our lackluster energy and doldrums, can help us sidestep some of the impact as we anticipate them.
2. Take care of ourselves by getting plenty of sleep, exercise, and healthy food and water. Feeling healthy and rested can contribute to high energy and focus (chocolate and coffee is good but not long term!)
3. Make sure to read the right books, watch the right programs and check the websites which are positive, thought-provoking and elevating. Stay away from negative stimuli and negative people. Seek out good friends and mentors. One for me is to get out in nature, going for brisk walks on trails, or at the beach.
4. Try a new strategy or method that you have not used before. Be dedicated to keeping your skills sharp by expanding on the repertoire in your teaching toolbox.
5. There is perhaps no greater way to stay educated and sharp than by mentoring another teacher. Reach out to a colleague and share feedback, ideas and techniques.
6. Reflect and bask on prior successes that you have had with students in years past. Perhaps there were students with whom you had unusual success, or classes and lessons that went exceptionally well.
Using several of the above ideas can be worthy to pull us out of our mid-winter doldrums and keep us professionally on top of our game. Please share your own additional ideas!
