As a seasoned educator with over 20 years of experience, a Master’s in Education, and certification as a life coach, I’ve learned what it takes for me to thrive as a teacher while achieving work-life balance. My journey as an elementary school teacher and educational assistant in high schools taught me five essential principles that every educator could embrace. The following principles may help you avoid common pitfalls and thrive after the summer break.
1. Teaching is What You Do, Not Who You Are
Teaching is a significant part of your life but not your entire identity. Your gifts and talents are to empower others inside and outside the classroom. Connecting with the other roles you play—whether as a mother, daughter, partner, or friend— is crucial. These roles provide a support community that fuels your journey as a life- long learner and educator. The experiences you gain outside the classroom often inspire new ideas, allowing you to bring your authentic self into your teaching.
2. Create Boundaries to Prevent Burnout
As a mother and a teacher, I understand the weight of mother guilt and teacher guilt, which make you feel like you need to do more. In my 15th year of teaching, I realized that without clear boundaries, I was exhausting myself with a never-ending to-do list, constantly driven by the mantra to “do it for the kids.” To protect my energy, I consciously decided to limit the work I brought home and preserve my lunch hour for myself. By prioritizing self-care—taking walks and enjoying uninterrupted meals—I could return to the classroom with more patience, positivity, and readiness to teach.
3. Redefine What Makes an Excellent Teacher
As a life coach and workplace wellness expert, I’ve seen many teachers go above and beyond without intentionally choosing to do so. When asked what makes a good teacher, responses often include leading extracurricular activities, club organization, and maintaining an aesthetically pleasing classroom. However, in Get Unstuck, a wellness workshop curated for educators, I ask participants to take a moment to reflect on what they truly believe is an excellent educator, and they often redefine these qualities based on personal values and expectations. For me, a key part of being an excellent teacher is nurturing a love and respect for the environment. This awareness led me to incorporate outdoor education into my programming and take on the lead teacher role for our school’s Eco certification. Passion-driven work is always more fun!
4. Find a Teacher Bestie
Teaching is a unique profession; having someone who truly understands your experience is invaluable. A teacher bestie will hold you accountable and bring laughter into your workday, and together, you will foster a thriving learning community at your school. Be intentional in building these relationships—ask your colleagues about their lives outside work or walk together during lunch. These shared moments can create lasting friendships, making a significant difference in your work life.
5. Understand the Value of Less is More
You might be working harder than necessary if you still need to adjust your teaching strategies. Our students are different now, and it’s vital to prioritize quality over quantity in your lessons. A single assignment can yield valuable insights, and meeting learners where they are is key to rebuilding their self-esteem and resilience. Don’t let the unrealistic expectations of those outside your classroom dictate your work. Remember, less is more.
In summary, to thrive after the holidays, you need to remember that teaching is what you do, not who you are; create boundaries to prevent burnout; define what makes a good teacher based on your values; find a teacher bestie to support you; and embrace the principle that less is more. Applying these principles allows you to achieve work-life balance and brings calm to the new school season.
Let’s continue this journey together!
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Lyne Frank
Lyne Frank, MEd, OCT, is a seasoned educator, workplace wellness expert, and women’s empowerment speaker with over 20 years of experience. As a certified life coach and women’s circle facilitator, Lyne has dedicated her career to supporting educators and women in their personal and professional growth. She is the founder of Ignite in Community, a private group where over 1,300 women gather to share, learn and grow in sisterhood. She also created Ignite in Circle, a life-changing group coaching program for women. Lyne now travels across Ontario leading her impactful workplace wellness workshops, Get Unstuck curated for educators, and Lost & Found, rooted in women empowerment and Balancing Act for most organizations. Her work has been recognized in Niagara News and on the Global Sisterhood platform.
This article is featured in Canadian Teacher Magazine’s Fall 2024 issue.