Teaching isn’t easy! And there is always something that needs to be done. So one of my ways of dealing with the stress is to do little things that make me happy. I find if I do, I am in a better mood and able to cope with the hard aspects of being a teacher.
One of my biggest things I do is around organization. I am happy when I can find everything I need, when I need it. It looks pleasing to me too. This year, one thing I have started doing is leaving everyday with all my areas cleaned up. I find when I do it daily – there isn’t that much to clean up and it gives me a great sense of satisfaction when I know it will be neat the next morning. I have also started cleaning drawers and cabinet shelves. I clean one a week and I find it not too daunting of task. I figure I will have every nook and cranny cleaned by spring.
Another thing I do is write lists. I love to write down what I need to do and then checking it off. I feel a sense of accomplishment when I do this. Not to mention, I get things done. I created my own Book of Lists to motivate me to create them.
I also like creating things on the computer. One of my colleagues was amazed at some of things I created and how I had the time. I just told her, I actually find it relaxing to create charts and other things. Here is an example of a chart I made for parents so they would know where their child should be each month on the computer programs we use for math.
Finally, when I have a sub, I like to have everything laid out and in order. I want the sub to be able to find and follow everything with ease. I probably take too much time to prepare, but it brings me joy to label everything and have it neatly laid out.
Find out what little things make you happy. If you do them daily or weekly, you will find it makes the other tasks as a teacher more bearable. I wish I had know this earlier in my teaching career.
Thanks for stopping in and reading my posts. Hope you all have a fantastic week ahead and make sure to do some little things to make yourself happy!
Karen
