A teachers guide to Surviving June

I say this every year, but I swear I blink and the school year is done, actually…. how on earth is it already June!??! For some, the end of the school year brings excitement, but for many others, it brings major anxiety when the reality of all that needs to get done sinks in. The to do list seems never ending, it’s hot (unless you’re one of the lucky ones to teach in a school with AC), and the kids are squirly from staying up wayyyy past their bedtime because it gets dark so late. The combination of these things is enough to drive anyone a little crazy!

I have been thinking about this post for a while now, and the other day I reached out to you guys for some help. You guys are freaking awesome! I had so many people reach out with tips/advice and so many of you begging I share them! So, your wish is my command!

HOW TO SURVIVE JUNE:

1.) Make a list. Make sure you include all things big and small. I find adding things like walk the dog, or make the bed, and then crossing them out makes me feel so accomplished, lol! Sounds crazy I know, but trust me! Making a list will help you feel a little less scattered while trying to remember everything that needs to be completed. Yes, it will seem daunting at first, but once you start to see more and more things get crossed off it feels SO good.

2.) Set a timer. Maybe this is the teacher in me but sometimes having a visual timer helps me to stay focussed for that allotted time. I set the timer, put on some music or Netflix on and get at it. Once the timer goes off I allow myself a short “brain break” – get up, do a stretch, go for a walk, check my phone, do some online shopping. Anything to give myself time to clear my mind and refocus. *Careful not to get carried away with these… I am guilty of this!

3.) Work space. This one is so important for me. For the most part I don’t like to take my school work home with me, but I make an exception during report card season. I find working in my “happy space” makes it so much more enjoyable. For me, this is in bed. I know this is weird, and you’re not supposed to work in the space where you sleep, but I am most comfortable there. I like to have fresh flowers on my nightstand, a cup of coffee (or sparkling water), a candle lit, and Netflix going for background noise. Maybe for you it’s your patio, home office, or even your classroom. Find the space that works best for you and stick to it. When you’re comfortable it will make the work so much more enjoyable.

4.) Snacks!! Need I say more? I prefer a buffet of gummy candies and sparkling water.

5.) Get an early start. This is one I am slowly getting better at. I typically work best under pressure. I was that girl who stayed up all night in collage working on a project or finishing a paper. But as of lately I have turned over a new leaf and it feels SO good. I feel way less overwhelmed… perhaps now that I’m 30 I’m really growing up… that or I am old and need sleep, lol! #adulting

5.) Self Care. Without a doubt this is the most important thing for me and for most of you as well. Whether that means walking the dog, reading a book, working out, going for a coffee with friends, or heading to the lake with family to rejuvenate. If you’re not taking care of yourself you’re not going to perform to the best of your ability. It has taken me a while to really understand the importance of this. Be kind and patient with yourself. Again, getting an early start on your to do list will allow you to maintain the kind of self care you will need to survive the madness of June.