Here's how you can build resilience to manage a heavy workload and long hours as a teacher.

As teachers, admittedly, we do have lot on our plate as it is. It can be stressful and overwhelming having to figure things out all at once. I find it best that you right down all your tasks first and then put them in order of urgency. Only the will you be able to plan your schedule around those tasks and tick them off one by one.

Every so often, with the amount of workload that we have, we do more often than not, tend to bring home our work home. Hoping and praying that we get it done soonest! But unfortunately, your work may be completed but it takes away from your breaks/ days off (which is very much needed). So boundaries are so crucial so that you take time for yourself to relax, unwind and come back fresher the next day. Set time limits for each tasks, put them in your Google Calendar, share that calendar with others, and let them know to respect your time and space.

More often than not, our job does get too overwhelming for us and deadlines are reaching us sooner than we think. This is when we have admit that we can't do everything and will need help from other. Discuss with your teacher colleagues, ask them for help, and find ways so that we can all support each other.

Incorporating physical activity into my morning routine has become a non-negotiable priority. This commitment requires discipline and early mornings, but it provides a valuable boost of dopamine to start the day. By challenging myself physically and mentally first thing in the morning, I feel confident in my ability to handle whatever the day brings, knowing that I am well-prepared, capable, and resilient.

The same old story about "you can't pour from an empty cup" is still relevant. To me, at least. As teachers, it's only natural that we give and give and give. So always take the time to give ourselves a much needed break; physically, mentally, spiritually, so that we can continue to give and give and give.

As a teacher, I've learned that flexibility and adaptability are crucial in the ever-changing landscape of education. Unexpected events, like a lesson plan not going as intended or sudden changes in school policies, require a resilient mindset. I've found that having a plan B and being open to new approaches is essential. This flexibility not only helps manage my workload but also models adaptability for my students, teaching them how to navigate challenges effectively.

Just like our lesson plans, admittedly, not all of them go as planned. But the show must go on. Having a plan is a must so that you come prepared but also expect the unexpected and embrace it. As long as your lesson objective is being met, or as long as the students learn something from it, consider it win. Come back tomorrow with a different plan and see how that goes. Teaching is a learning process too.

As a teacher, I've found that regular reflection on my teaching practice significantly enhances my resilience. Each week, I take time to reflect on what went well and what could be improved. Celebrating successes, no matter how small, and learning from setbacks helps me grow both professionally and personally. This reflective practice has made me more adept at handling future challenges and continually improving my teaching methods.

Building resilience takes time and practice. Be patient with yourself and be open to adjusting your strategies as needed. By taking care of yourself and implementing these strategies, you can better manage a heavy workload and long hours as a teacher. 1. Prioritize Self-Care 2. Set Realistic Expectations 3. Practice Time Management 4. Establish Boundaries 5. Seek Support 6. Practice Mindfulness and Stress Reduction Techniques 7. Celebrate Small Wins

As a teacher, I've learned that building resilience is crucial for managing a heavy workload and long hours. Here’s how you can do it: 1. **Prioritize Self-Care**: Engage in regular exercise, eat well, and ensure you get enough rest. Taking care of yourself provides the energy needed to tackle each day. 2. **Set Realistic Goals**: Break tasks into manageable chunks and set achievable goals to avoid feeling overwhelmed. Using these strategies, I’ve maintained balance and effectiveness in my teaching career.