5 Ways to Finish the School Year Strong Without Burning Out
Image credit: https://www.facultyfocus.com/articles/faculty-development/regroup-and-refocus-strategies-to-avoid-professor-burn-out/
Now that summer is just around the corner, many teachers are finding themselves more exhausted than ever. Between wrapping up curriculum, preparing students for transitions, managing end-of-year events, and supporting students who may also be feeling restless, it can feel like the demands only increase as your energy decreases.
While it is completely normal to be feeling drained right now, it’s important to keep yourself from burning out. Here are some strategies that can actually help.
Set Boundaries
Instead of working until everything is done, decide when you are going to end your day, and don’t take your classroom stress home. It’s also important to start saying “no” more often. If you’re someone that is always willing to help out a friend or family member or take on extra projects (I am definitely guilty of this), don’t be afraid to protect your time a little more. It is okay to limit your commitments right now.
Get Creative
Find a creative outlet that relaxes you. Whether it’s baking, painting, gardening, or writing, it is important to have hobbies that help you unwind. Lately, I have been coloring to wind down at the end of the day. It’s just nice to be able to shut my mind off and enjoy a new little hobby.
Let Students Help
The end of the year is a great time for student-led projects, peer review, and classroom jobs. Having your class help out with everyday tasks builds independence and lightens your load. It’s a win-win! Edutopia has some great ideas for classroom jobs here:
https://www.edutopia.org/article/41-elementary-classroom-jobs-build-shared-responsibility-community/
Create a Morning Routine
Set aside at least a half hour each morning for yourself. Sit outside and enjoy your coffee, get in an early yoga routine, or watch an episode of your favorite TV show. It’s such a good way to start your day off on a happy note. I love this morning yoga routine by Boho Beautiful: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Y2RcO6TKO4s
Lean on Your Colleagues
Isolation can amplify burnout, but even just five minutes with a teacher friend can recalibrate your whole afternoon. Chances are, it will improve their day as well!
Image credit: https://lattesforteachers.com/blog/coffee-for-everyone/
If you’re exhausted right now, it’s probably because you’ve been giving so much for so long. So as you head into these final weeks, try this mindset shift:
You don’t have to sprint to the finish.
You’re allowed to walk, pause, and take care of yourself along the way.
Finishing the year well doesn’t mean finishing it perfectly. It means finishing it in a way that lets you come back next year as yourself, not completely burned out.
Have a wonderful summer vacation!