You get a ridiculous amount of stuff done, and work as if you are in a time warp. How do I know? I used to be one of you. And now that I've been away from traditional teaching for about two and a half years, I work at a slower more normal pace. It honestly seems slow. Everything feels like it takes to long to finish--cooking, making art, creating new programs and courses, online marketing--all of it. I don't feel productive enough, but I do feel so much calmer.
Most of the world has no idea how much an average elementary school teacher actually does in a day. And if they haven't stood in your shoes, how would they?
I know it's the time of year that lots of Brave Teachers are holding on by their fingernails, and just trying to make it to Winter Break. I also know that lots of you feel guilt because of that. Can you do me a favor? Let go of the guilt! Let it go. You are doing so very much, and it doesn't feel like it will be enough. Tonight when you head hits the pillow, take some deep breaths, and as you exhale, let your guilt float away.
Even on your least productive days you do a ridiculous amount of stuff. Never forget that!
P.S. I've gearing up to offer some in person workshops for educators in the Spring. I want the opportunity to remind you how fabulous you are! More on this soon!