Wellbeing for tired teachers Eight tips to becoming a less tired teacher I have been teaching for 25+ years, and I know any teacher would agree with me when I say that there is no tiredness like teacher-tired. For many of us, the challenges we have had to face – from the technological to the emotional to the physical – during this pandemic have taken this exhaustion to a new level. But fortunately, there are several ways to combat this tiredness so that we can continue to support our students and be the best teachers we can be. Try these tips to feel more well-rested and motivated:
1. Adopt a growth mindset This is such a powerful tool and something that I not only reiterate with my students, but also try hard to incorporate into my own life on a daily basis. The three simple growthmindset concepts from psychologist and author, Carol Dweck are: Your brain is a muscle, so exercise it. As teachers in these strange times, we need to stay stimulated. This, for me, is vitally important to keep stamina up. So yes, do your school work, ensure that your students have the best resources – even if it means showing your creative side and writing your own reading stories, doing some research, and taking a course to upskill yourself. This is good for the soul. Why not try to pick up a book once in a while or even build a puzzle? Keep your brain in shape. It is okay to make mistakes. We tell this to our pupils all the time. Now it is time to tell yourself. My goodness, we have gone into a whole new era of learning in a matter of weeks! It is okay to make mistakes! The trick, however, is not to give up. Go make a cup of tea and think of a different way to approach the task! Now try again! You’ve got this! The power of YET. I think this is my favourite. I don’t know how many times over the last few months, I have made a statement like: I can’t do this. This makes no sense. I don’t understand. Let us rather rephrase those statements to say: I can’t do this YET. This makes no sense YET. I do not understand YET. The word YET is very powerful, especially when you look at it in this context. Give it a go – it works. Teacha! Magazine | 25
