Take time for you
Even if it's two minutes, I find a quiet corner to take a few deep breaths or stretch. Usually when I'm alone in the elevator, or in a quiet corridor. It helps tremendously.
it is very important to take care of yourself,this helps cope with all the stress that can be around us.
Yes, it is so true that when you put yourself first that all other priorities seem to fall in their proper place. It is so important to remember who you are and why you are a teacher. Take the time to enjoy the rewards of teaching and also remember to continue to do things that you enjoy such as hobbies and sporting activities.
Tiffany, Taking a step back is so important. The staircase method that you talk about is an interesting one. It does sound quiet in there. Sometimes, we just have to use the environment we have.
Dr. Melissa Read
I have found that I can step into our staircase and take 5 minutes and have peace and quiet to regroup and gather my thoughts. This will help when you have to come back into the mix to be fresh and ready to go again
Monica, What a wonderful technique. Sometimes it's important to remind ourselves of what really matters in life. It can help give us a healthy perspective on things when times get tough.
Dr. Melissa Read
I find that when i am so stressed out, that i start to get a headache, I call my son & he seems to remind me about the good things in life. I soon think about him & his beautiful smile and I seem to get back on track.
Judy, So true. For some instructors, this is easier said than done. Sometimes it feels like we don't have one minute or even a second to spare. But if we force this time into our schedules, it can really help us become more effective and relaxed the rest of the time.
Dr. Melissa Read
I feel a person must take time out during the day, even if it's just a few minutes to relax and rest the mind. A walk out side, fresh air, or just sit quietly in their office. At home, one should excercise...go for a long walk, listen to music...enjoy family time.
Taking time for one's self, will certainly prove to be very valuable in the long run.
Maryalice, What a great way to take time for you. Sometimes we can be really effective when we shut down everything and just focus on us. If you are able to do this for an hour a day, you are very lucky.
Dr. Melissa Read
I agree with the two minutes or with what ever opportunity presents it self doing your work day breathing,stretching, anything that may relieve your stress while on duty. Then there is that first hour after work for "me time" that I look forward to. No telephone no verbal communication, just relax clear my head and I'm good for the remaining of the day. I put this into practice very early in my work career. And it works for me.
I agree that its really important. Lot of time, in the flow of life/work, we forget that we need time to take care of ourselves both physically and mentally. I work on 6th floor and at least twice in a day, I go down to ist floor and take a short walk around the parking lot. It helps me decrease my work stress and spend rest of the day in a more pleasant manner.
Angela, So glad to hear you are taking this approach. You can't imagine how much more effective you will be with a little rest and a little you time!
Dr. Melissa Read
Renee thanks for the advice. I often times get to wrapped up into my career and personal life, I forget to take time out for me. I will try my best to take a few minutes out of my day for me.
Warren, I love the idea of mental health days and I've watched other instructors effectively use this technique. You are right. It's important to take time to take a step back every now and again - healthy too.
Dr. Melissa Read
I will plan days off sometimes for no other reason than a mental health day. You get to know after a while when you need to take a break. Everything goes easier after a short break to stand back, relax and then continue. You are the best judge of when you need a break, so don't wait for someone else to suggest it. Usually if someone else has noticed you're overdue.
Joan, So happy to hear you take time for you. Sounds like you engage in activities that you genuinely enjoy too. Movies and relaxing around the house can be a great retreat - and low cost!
Dr. Melissa Read
CJ, This is a wonderful approach and I wish more instructors followed your lead. We really need to take the time each day to power off and return to life. While it's important to check for fires, you've got to take some time each day for you.
Dr. Melissa Read
I turn my cell ringer off at night and when I get up, I peek to see if there is a fire, but don't turn the ringer on until I'm ready to take calls.
This is generally after coffee and pet time and maybe a 30 minute session with my DVR before I start my day.
I agree, I take one day on the weekend that I eat what I enjoy, watch movies and just relax around the house, I love it. It gets me ready for the new work week.
