Your mind and your energy are the tools of your trade. Now more than ever, taking care of them is part of doing your best work. Here are five quick tips to help you come back from your summer holiday refreshed and ready to inspire.
1. Phones off, please!
Too much screen time is just as bad for teachers as it is for students. Take a break from Facebook, Twitter and TikTok (if you can’t face going cold turkey, see if your phone settings allow you to set time limits on apps). You’ll probably find it easier to relax, refocus on your true priorities, and notice the positives in your world rather than comparing yourself unfavourably to others.
2. Reconnect
Don’t just disconnect from social media–reconnect with people who are important to you in real life. The emotional, intellectual and physical demands of teaching are intense and can leave us with little time and energy for our existing relationships, let alone developing new ones. Summer is a great time to redress the balance. Call a friend, arrange a date, or book a class you’ve always wanted to try.
3. Declutter
Clearing up your space can help you clear your mind and boost your wellbeing. Give the room you spend most time in at home a once-over, or give yourself a fresh start for the new school year by clearing your desk at work before you leave for summer. Look at everything you find and ask yourself if you’ve used it in the last few months. Is it useful? Does it bring you joy? If not, put it in a box for the charity shop or eBay.
4. Give yourself a break
You can go on holiday without leaving home. Carve out a week, a day, or just an afternoon to do the things you’d like to do on holiday, alone or with family. Prep your favourite food and drink the day before, pick out your holiday outfit, pack your favourite book, head to the local park, tourist attraction, or even your back garden, and get your holiday mood on.
5. Find the balance
The most important wellbeing tip is to find balance in your life. What are your priorities? Are rest and fun on your priority list? How are you dividing your time and energy between the people and things that matter to you? Use your summer break to reflect, refresh yourself, and redress the balance.
