Week 3 Review: 5 Ways to Minimize Teacher Stress
As a college student, and someone who always wanted to be the best and do the most perfect job humanly possible, I understand stress inside and out. I have had family and friends tell me to "stop stressing" innumerable times. I have heard that I have also happened to choose one of the most stressful occupations there is (not to say other jobs aren't stressing also). I already care about my students and worry about them and I'm not even responsible for any of them yet! I know that I will definitely be one of those really caring, but stressed and slightly crazy (not in the good way) teachers if I'm not careful. This is why Mrs Beers's post on Minimizing Teacher Stress jumped out at me as something that I, and my peers would probably find use for in the future (or maybe even right now).
To avoid spending too much of our time pulling our hair out like this poor teacher, Mrs. Beer suggested some helpful tips and tricks. The first is to de-brief with your teammates or a close teacher friend as often as possible. Just like having close friends in school and your personal life, having close work friends and teammates can be a huge help to your stress. You can talk openly with them and discuss what went right and what went wrong that day and avoid pining over it for the rest of your day. She really stresses the importance of having a good teacher friend as her second suggestion is to exercise with one. The benefits of this are similar to the first one, plus your staying in shape with a good friend.
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Suggestion number three is to drive in silence or listen to music that can't possibly get any louder. This strategy is mostly about clearing your head. On your way home you have to find separation from the classroom and your home life. Do whichever helps you rejuvenate and prepare for being home and ready to be a good parent or spouse.
Her next suggestion might sound like a challenge but she suggest you walk out of the building paperwork, professional development, and school materials free. There are times that you need to take work home with you, but there are also times when you don't. It will still be there tomorrow and you can deal with it then. I can definitely agree with her final suggestion. If nothing else works, just got straight to Target! She says you don't have to buy anything, but once your there you are probably guaranteed to grab something that you just have! Target is just too great and when did a little retail therapy ever hurt? Stress may be unavoidable, but now we at least know some things to derail it and help tone it down when it gets bad.
I really enjoyed Mrs. Beers's post and will definitely be reading more of her blog. The voice she writes in is relatable and entertaining. |