Self-care Plan
We've all heard of teacher burnout. As a young teacher one of my central goals is to foster sustainable ways of being an educator. Below are some of my own strategies for keeping the candle burning evenly--even if it sometimes burns at both ends!
Tried and tested strategies for sustainable teaching:
PHYSICAL SELF-CARE STRATEGIES
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Outdoor walks during the day
Give the butt a break and breathe without a mask for a little while.
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Normalize testing blood sugars in public
Do not be ashamed of managing Type I Diabetes!
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Normalize breaks to eat
Teachers often work through lunch--students will understand the odd snack break.
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Invest time in preparing healthy meals
Ten minutes spent the night before are well worth the quick and nutritious meal at school.
MENTAL SELF-CARE STRATEGIES
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Foster collegial relationships
Share the teaching experience with others--know you are not alone.
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Be in nature
Make a change of scenery, take a break from thinking of lessons, students, etc.
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Take moments to be mindful
Take a breath, slow down, do a body scan--do what you can to check in on your thoughts and feelings.
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Walk the dog
Take advantage of the unconditional love on offer.
PROFESSIONAL SELF-CARE STRATEGIES
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Time for lesson reflections
Seek time to reflect on what goes well and what can be improved in lessons.
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Reading and research
Pedagogy evolves; be sure to keep up-to-date with current understandings of education.
- Identify mentors
Foster positive relationships with experienced colleagues and ask for help.
SPIRITUAL SELF-CARE STRATEGIES
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Gratitude journals/reflections
Take a moment to shift the focus from what should get better to what there is to be thankful for. Find the joy.
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Celebrate accomplishments
Foster a supporting community by applauding the successes of students, teachers, and yourself.
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Practise vulnerability
Have a friend who will listen on the hard days.
Some strategies taken from:
"Teaching exceptional children," Vol 52, No. 6, pp. 367-369.
Reach Out Australia (reachout.com).
Alberta Teachers' Association Magazine, Winter 2021.