End of summer vibes
Well educators, we are nearing the end of summer. Can you believe it?!?! It always moves way too quickly for me. As an administrator, I continue working through the summer and I really don’t mind it. The school is quiet and I get a lot done.
I still take time off to have some fun.
This summer has been filled with adventure, family, learning, relaxation, goodbyes, and self-care.
This tends to be the time when many educators start feeling a bit of anxiety as we get closer to starting a new school year. You walk into a store and see the big “Back to School” sign with all the essentials for students to start another year and your body and mind might feel innate reactions.
This can cause a lot of excitement as well.
I can’t wait for the school to fill up with students, faculty, and staff. I truly miss everyone and look forward to seeing all those new outfits and backpacks as students nervously approach their teachers on the first day of school.
There is so much happiness and trepidation about starting something new. This is a necessary part of school; endings and beginnings. It keeps the cycle of possibility alive.
So the real question is, what can you do to ease your mind of the nervousness about a new school year. Here are five simple steps that you can do now to enjoy the remainder of summer without the worry of a new school year lingering over your shoulder.
Only do the schoolwork that brings you excitement. This might be creating fun lessons, deciding on a new theme for your classroom, or organization. The things you don’t really enjoy can be done during your professional development days prior to the start of the year.
Practice mindfulness by focusing on the here and now. Focus on observing your thoughts, without judgment, and allow them to process, then release anything negative. Rather than spending the remainder of your summer in a state of stress mentally engaging in something that is not here yet. That time will come, regardless if you stress about it or not, so why not enjoy the here and now.
Start to connect with others. Reach out to those trusted coworkers that will make you excited about what’s to come. You will remember that you really miss them and look forward to your days together. Avoid the negative people that suck the positive energy out of you.
Attend a professional development that is rejuvenating. There are courses you can find online, Ted Talks to watch, or in person conferences that leave you feeling good about the work you are doing.
Prioritize your self-care. Make sure you are taking care of your physical and mental health to be ready for the year to come. Now is the time to start these routines prior to starting the school year when the hustle takes over.
Eat a balanced diet
Get sufficient sleep
Move your body daily and do intentional exercise three times a week
Prioritize positive self talk
Most importantly, remember that your wellness is a priority. Put your needs first, so you can flow into your well being during the school year. You won’t regret it.
