Taking Care of You

In 17 years of teaching, one of the biggest challenges that I have seen in the classroom (and experienced myself because years of experience do not always alleviate this problem) is that teachers inadvertently allow their school work to take priority over their personal well being and their personal lives.  Yes, I am guilty. The demands are high, especially if you want to do a good job.  I could go on about that all day, with a list a mile long, but I won't!  We all know the answers.

This summer, however, I found running (or, rather, a new dedication to it) and have experienced the many positive effects of it.  My mind seems clearer, I have more energy, I am a happier person, I feel better about myself, and I enjoy feeling going outside and just running!  I am 51 and I just ran my first 5K this summer.  It was a very proud moment for me.  Whether you run, go to the gym, practice yoga, ride your bike, or do some other physical activity, please remember that it is important that you MAKE the time to do these things FOR YOU.  Don't take no for an answer.  Don't make excuses.  Don't try to work it into your schedule...work your schedule around your activity.

Another realization that I have come to is this:  not every activity that the kids complete needs to be graded by me, maybe I don't need to assess as often as I do, and not everything needs to be returned the next day. Entrance and exit tickets are a quick way to check understanding, students can check their own work and turn it in for you to get a feel for their mastery, and so on...so, I will do what I can while I am at school.  Last year, I was guilty of bringing at least two bags of work, as well as my work laptop, home every single day and every single weekend.  By the time that I had taken care of what needed to be done at home (and what I could not delegate to my sweet, neglected but understanding husband), I would find that it was 9 pm (or later) and I was about ready to hit the sack.  Too many nights, I stayed up working, fighting to keep my eyes open.

Friends, this is no life.  We cannot continue to do this and still have time to stop and smell the roses.  Everyone needs to develop a plan for ways to balance home and work.

Unfortunately, it is 17 years later, my son is a senior in high school, I have missed too much of his growing up, and I have let my own health fall to the side.  NO MORE.   Learn this from me and from your colleagues who have been there, done that.  Do it today.  Make that plan and STICK TO IT!