Are Distractions Leading to Burnout?

Distracted. That seems to be the word that I've used A LOT lately. I'm distracted by this crazy raccoon that's currently wrestling with the dog at the foot of my bed. I'm distracted by my phone- constantly picking it up to check for red notifications. Even when there are?no red dots screaming for my attention, I still unconsciously (or perhaps very consciously) pick up the phone and click on the things that I habitually check. There's nothing new there. Just distractions.

I know these are all distractions. They are distractions that don't really bring me much fulfillment. But I almost invite the meaningless, fruitless?distractions. I might even go as far as to say that they are life-sucking distractions (okay, except the raccoon, which is precious). Why? Why do I and so many others do this? Is it because the reality is harder or because the distractions are easier? I'm certain it's a little of both, but what's interesting is that the former- the more challenging reality- is what actually has the potential to bring us great fulfillment and joy.

I think this happens in our schools, too. We are often distracted by the things that end up not amounting to very much and don't actually make a significant impact.? Those distractions lead to burnout, a lack of fulfillment, and the same problems being solved again and again which depletes educator capacity.

So, I'm curious:? Do you see these things as distractions?

• that "all-inclusive" scripted curriculum that teachers can turn page by page that "covers all the standards"
• the new technology program that will intervene and provide students "exactly what they need" based on their current level of understand
• the TPT worksheets that are just so darn cute you almost don't want kids to write on them
• the lesson planning meetings and PLCs where people completed a week's worth of plans but haven't talked about instruction at all
• the videos upon videos of books being read aloud by someone the students don't even know

Heres' the reality check:? What are these things distracting us from and why are we choosing to allow them to distract us?

The thing we absolutely should be doing as instructional leaders is unveiling what lies beneath the distractions.? If we're noticing that the distractions are covering an empty foundation (aka a lack of common pedagogy and practices),?then it could be helpful to create an instructional playbook as a team or campus.? I've created a Padlet to help get you and your team started.? It includes helpful resources from Steve Ventura , lead4ward , Marzano Resources , and GOLD Edu. Never underestimate the power of a strong pedagogical foundation upon which your whole campus can stand (regardless of all those distractions listed above)! You can see this article and these resources in my recent newsletter!