I think these are difficult to do with any sort of consistency, but see if you can give just one a try
{These are things that I’m applying so much more now that I’m out of the classroom for this year.}
- Know your limits and stick to them--know how much time you will commit in a day/a week/ a month/ a year to the tasks you need to do--planning/grading/cleaning/set up/ extra stuff.
- Be realistic and stick to it. For example: I have 30 minutes to grade, and that is all today.
- Close out distractions from your personal work time--no internet, friends, kids, coworkers, etc. The time moves fast, and you know what you have to do. Carve out that quiet work time and keep it sacred.
- Say NO! politely but firmly. Some ways to say it are: “I wish I could, but I’m not able to add anything extra right now.” “That sounds like a good idea, but it doesn’t line up with my goals right now.” “I wish you well, but I am not able to participate at this time.”
- Do something that brings you joy every single day--cook, walk around your block, knit, play with your kids, clean your house, listen to music, whatever it is for you. It might be very simple like smile as you walk down the street. You are only able to give from the overflow of your joy, so keep your joy well filled and overflowing!
- Honor your humanity. You are not a teaching machine or robot. You are a human being. When you recognize and accept this in your self it will be much easier to recognize and accept in other people--especially your students.