Being down with pneumonia last week made me think about the need for self-care! It's that time of year when many of us are battling germs, exhaustion, long list of to do's, etc. I know some of you have also been dealing with some heavy issues with students and/or extra challenging student situations.
Winter break is very welcomed right now!
In my opinion, our work is some of the most important on the planet. It can be exhausting and draining work, though. So, how do we keep ourselves refreshed and ready to do our work?
I was reading a blog post on Cult of Pedagogy, and the author lists 4 steps:
Winter break is very welcomed right now!
In my opinion, our work is some of the most important on the planet. It can be exhausting and draining work, though. So, how do we keep ourselves refreshed and ready to do our work?
I was reading a blog post on Cult of Pedagogy, and the author lists 4 steps:
"Work hard. Play hard." This is the saying I've been using the last few years. I'm all about working hard, but, after reading these 4 steps, I wonder if my approach should be, "Play hard so that I'm able to work hard." Time to start playing! :) I think there are some good points, though. We need rest, and rest helps us to do our work well. Our students need us to be ready to do our work well. We need to get better at streamlining our tasks to be better managers of our time. This can be challenging, but it's possible.
Here are some other suggestions for self-care:
As I write this, I know I have a long list of things to do inside my planner, but I also know that I'll be planning some good rest this winter break. As you head off, remember to take time for yourself. Enjoy this time away - you've worked hard for it!
Here are some other suggestions for self-care:
- Set aside the technology. As much as I love technology, I know it can be a time sucker. I have to purposefully tell myself to not check emails, etc. when I'm at my son's sporting events. Be present and enjoy the rest.
- Take up a new hobby or activity that allows you to step away from the work. My new ones this year - walking our new dog and learning to crochet. (Any crocheters out there that can help me?) This isn't meant to add another thing that you have to do, but rather be something that you look forward to doing.
- Build rest into your schedule.
- Find what rejuvenates and regulates you. For some people, it's time spent with people. For others, they need time away from people. We each have our own things that help us.
- Get some fresh air!
- Choose a fun quote for the week. If you need some - I have a few fun books in my office, including "The Book of Calm".
- Prioritize.
- Laugh.
As I write this, I know I have a long list of things to do inside my planner, but I also know that I'll be planning some good rest this winter break. As you head off, remember to take time for yourself. Enjoy this time away - you've worked hard for it!
A few extra readings if you're interested: