Stress Management Tips During the Holiday Season
Stress is something we all experience when we have a lot on our plate. The balance between professional and personal responsibilities can pile up, especially around the holiday season. To ensure your survival until the winter break, check out these guidelines to help you have a worry-free holiday season.
Break it Down
Projects, tasks, meetings, grades, paperwork, clean-up, emails, phone calls– the list can go on with all the tasks you need to complete before you turn off the lights in your classroom or office. Manage your to-do list by breaking down each item into smaller tasks. If you have a marathon to run, split each mile into a nibble-sized benchmark. The same can go for your to-do list!
Set an Intention Each Morning
Start your morning by thinking about your intention for the day. It can be as simple as eating healthy or knocking out some daily tasks before lunch. Whatever your intentions, you’ll feel more accomplished once you’ve completed them.
Let Loose, It’s the Holidays!
Students cannot wait for the last bell to signify the start of winter break. Don’t deny that you are just as distracted by the holiday season too! To help with holiday distractions, think of things that make teaching fun for you – and do them! Holidays are the perfect time to incorporate activities that make students excited about learning (and makes you excited to teach). Check out these fun
STEM Holiday Inspired Activities you can use in the classroom.
It’s Okay to Say No
Sometimes we get lassoed into projects or activities we don’t have time for, personally and professionally. It’s okay to politely refuse to not take on more projects. It’s important to devote your time to your current responsibilities and obligations before adding more to your workload.
Support Your Colleagues
At the end of the day, you are all in it together. Support your colleges by extending help when you can, sharing advice, and creating a positive atmosphere for one another. After all, it is the season for giving!
