It’s no secret that Back to School season is the busiest time of the year for educators. We’ve sat down with our Vice President of Operations, Megan Murphy, to discuss her best strategies for keeping calm amongst the chaos.
Is it just me or does it feel like the 2022-2023 school year just ended? The days of long summer breaks are far behind us as our educators, school administrators, and teams of school staff who support summer programs have to immediately jump into planning for the fall. Back to School season comes with a whirlwind of responsibilities and challenges. So, how do we maintain our sanity and prioritize our own mental health so we can be present and positive role models for our students?
Collaborate and Delegate
I truly believe that teamwork makes the dream work! We should not feel burdened to take on every task alone. Foster a culture of collaboration by working together with colleagues and delegating responsibilities when appropriate.Teamwork helps distribute the workload and brings fresh perspectives, reducing stress levels for everyone involved.
Effective Time Management
Give Yourself Some Grace
We are all human! It’s natural to make mistakes or encounter challenges during the Back to School period. Embrace self-compassion, and avoid being too hard on yourself. Acknowledge that you may need time to adjust, and remember that setbacks are opportunities for growth and improvement.
Open Communication is Key
Transparent and open communication is essential during this time. Encourage staff to express their concerns and anxieties, and create channels for them to voice their opinions and ideas. Lead by example, while being approachable and receptive to feedback from your team members.
Foster a Supportive Work Environment
A positive work environment is crucial for maintaining sanity and overall well-being. Leaders can promote a supportive atmosphere by recognizing and celebrating achievements, offering professional development opportunities, and providing resources to help others thrive in their roles.
Set Boundaries
In the midst of the Back to School rush, it’s easy to lose track of personal time. Establish clear boundaries between work and personal life. Ensure that you prioritize self-care and time with family and friends. Creating this balance will lead to increased productivity and a happier mindset.
Engage in Stress-Relief Activities
Stress-relief activities can do wonders on your ability to focus and foster a sense of calm amidst the hustle and bustle. Prioritize meditation and exercise to help reduce stress. We also like keeping our Mindful Moments close by in a pinch.
Maintaining sanity during the back-to-school period is essential to provide the best possible support for our students. Together, we can create a positive and nurturing school environment that benefits the growth and wellbeing of our students.
