Being a teacher can be rewarding but it also an incredibly demanding job. It is important to take care of yourself, so you are happy and at your best as well as being the best teacher you can be for your students. In this blog post, we will explore six simple steps that you can take to increase your happiness as a teacher.
Six Steps to Being a Happier Teacher! 🤩
1. Limit your marking
One thing that can be overwhelming for teachers is the amount of marking they have to do. It is important to remember that you do not need to mark everything. Choose the most important assignments or assessments to focus on and let go of the rest. Your students will still learn and grow, even if you don’t mark every single assignment.
2. No working lunches
Remember that you are not paid for your lunchtime. Use this time to recharge and refocus for the rest of the day. Take a walk, chat with colleagues, or simply relax and enjoy your lunch.
3. Prioritise your sleep
It can be tempting to stay up late working, but getting enough sleep is essential for your well-being. Make sure you are getting at least seven to nine hours of sleep each night to ensure that you are well rested and ready to tackle the day ahead.
4. Build your community
Spending time with family, friends, and colleagues is important for maintaining a healthy work-life balance. Make time for these relationships, whether it’s through regular dinner parties, game nights, or simply going out for coffee. These connections will provide you with a supportive network and help you to feel happier and more fulfilled.
5. Move your body every day
It’s not just about walking around the classroom. Make sure you are getting regular exercise, whether it’s through a structured workout or simply going for a walk or jog. Exercise has been shown to have numerous benefits for mental health and can help you to feel happier and more energised.
6. Remember, it’s alright to say NO
As a teacher, it can be easy to feel like you have to say yes to everything. However, it is important to remember that it is okay to set boundaries and say no when you need to. Saying no to certain commitments or responsibilities can help you to feel more in control of your time and less overwhelmed.
By following these six steps, you can increase your happiness as a teacher and be better equipped to handle the demands of the job. Remember to take care of yourself and prioritise your well-being.
It will not only benefit you, but your students as well.
