Practical Self-Kindness for Chronically Tired Teachers

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Show Notes:

Over the past two weeks, we’ve explored the importance of kindness. Specifically, how to teach it to kids and model it as educators. But while teachers are experts at showing kindness to others, we often struggle to extend that same compassion to ourselves.

When we neglect self-kindness, it can lead to chronic fatigue and even impact our longevity in the profession. However, by intentionally practicing self-kindness and self-love, we can better care for ourselves despite the demanding nature of teaching. In today’s episode, I’m sharing practical, research-backed strategies to help chronically tired teachers embrace self-kindness in meaningful ways.

Some of these ideas may challenge the way you think about energy, emotional rest, and where you invest your time. But the truth is, reclaiming your time and energy isn’t selfish—it’s necessary. Self-kindness allows you to cultivate restorative joy, and in this episode, we’ll discuss how to build that into your daily routine.

Being kind to yourself doesn’t erase the challenges of teaching, but it does help you navigate them with more strength, grace, and joy. When you prioritize your well-being, you’re not only filling your own cup, you’re ensuring you have the energy to support your students and those around you.

Inside this week's show, you'll learn:

• How self-kindness can help reduce chronic fatigue and teaching burnout.
• Two strategies that reclaim your time and energy that are practical and simple.
• The importance of protecting your emotional energy and simple ways to accomplish this in your daily routine.
• Ways to allow yourself to cultivate restorative joy with advice from fellow teachers who have made it a priority.

These studies reinforce the importance of maintaining a positive focus in educational settings to enhance student outcomes:

1. Boundary Setting and Teacher Well-being:

• How to Set Boundaries as an Overworked Educator – This article discusses how establishing clear boundaries can reduce stress and improve overall well-being for educators. 

Greater Good

2. Expressive Writing and Stress Reduction:

• Writing About Past Failures Attenuates Cortisol Responses – This study explores how expressive writing can lower cortisol levels, the hormone associated with stress. 

Frontiers

3. Teacher Stress and Coping Mechanisms:

• A Study of Work Stress and Coping Among Primary School Teachers in New Zealand – This research examines the sources of stress for teachers and the coping strategies they employ. 

ERIC

4. Barriers to and Facilitators for Teachers’ Well-being:

• This article delves into the factors that hinder or promote well-being among teachers, emphasizing the importance of self-care practices. 

Frontiers

5. Interventions to Reduce Stress and Burnout Among Teachers:

• This scoping review analyzes various psychological interventions aimed at addressing stress and burnout in the teaching profession. 

MDPI

6. The Power of Expressive Writing: Unlocking Therapeutic Benefits:

• This piece highlights how expressive writing can serve as a therapeutic tool to manage stress and improve mental health. 

Mid Cities Psychiatry

7. Maintaining Work-Life Balance for Educators: Establishing Clear Boundaries:

• This article offers insights into how teachers can set boundaries to maintain a healthy work-life balance and prevent burnout. 

Nicole Educator

8. Setting Boundaries for Teachers’ Well-being:

• This resource discusses the significance of boundary-setting in enhancing teachers' well-being and preventing burnout. 

Times Higher Education (THE)

9. The Science Behind Journaling: How It Affects the Brain and Emotional Well-being:

• This article explores the neurological and emotional benefits of journaling, including stress reduction and improved emotional regulation. 

Actually Useful Journaling

10. Writing Therapy:

• This comprehensive overview covers the therapeutic benefits of writing, including its impact on emotional health and stress levels. 

Wikipedia

Links & resources mentioned inside this episode: 

• Free Masterclass - Your 5-Step Classroom Management Reset
• Grab a copy of my book, Dear New Teacher, Here's Exactly What to Do: Your 5-Step R.E.A.D.Y. for School Roadmap for Elementary Classrooms
• Lung Cancer Free: One Couple’s Journey Through a “Lungs in a Box” Double Lung Transplant.
• Follow Dr. Lori on Instagram
• Follow Dr. Lori on Facebook
• Follow Beginning Teacher Talk on TikTok

I hope this information is helpful as you prepare for your first, second, or third year of teaching. Until next time, remember, just because you're a beginning elementary teacher, there's no need for you to struggle like one.

💛 Lori

Dr. Lori Friesen | Beginning Teacher Mentor

Creator of the R.E.A.D.Y. for School Academy and The Classroom Management Club, Dr. Lori Friesen has mentored thousands of beginning teachers across the country through her workshops and courses. Host of the popular podcast Beginning Teacher Talk and author of Dear New Teacher, Here's Exactly What to Do, Dr. Lori is dedicated to serving educators and inspiring learners. Learn more at drlorifriesen.com.

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Related episodes you might enjoy:

• How Elementary Teachers Can Show Kindness & Compassion to Their Students
• 10 Fun and Easy Ways to Teach Kids Kindness: Practical Ideas You’ll Love!
• How Gratitude Positively Impacts Learning: 7 Thanksgiving Activities that Teach Gratitude
• 10 Research-Backed Ways to Find the Positive in Your Students
• All Behavior is Communication: 12 Easy Ways to Build Connections with Your Students

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