S1:B2 Returning Refreshed and Rejuvenated after the Holidays

S1:B2
Returning Refreshed and Rejuvenated after the Holidays

As we enter the 2019 year, here are 9 tips for returning back to school more relaxed and rejuvenated than you left in December. Happy (almost) New Year!

Tip One: Let Work Stay at Work

Don't bring work home with you over the break, if possible. If you do need to get some work done, designate a day or two to do it.

Tip Two: Tell Yourself You Can Do It

Before returning to school, I often find myself cranky or nervous. Even after many years of teaching! Remind yourself that you know how to do this and that everything doesn't need to be tackled immediately or all at once. Focus on the first 30 minutes of your day when you return.

Tip Three: Plan Ahead

Before you leave for break, think about what you need when you return and try to do those things before leaving. Examples: Making copies, create files for your Smartboard, clean your desk.

Tip Four: Celebrate the New Year With Your Students in a Fun Way

- Buy New Year Glasses for students to pose and take fun pictures
- Set goals together
- Design a Happiness Project for you class

Check out Gretchen Rubin's blog post and podcast "Happier with Gretchen Rubin" Episode 198 about her Happiness Project idea.

Tip Five: Reset Expectations

Review what you expect in your classroom - set-up, how to enter/exit, transitions. Take time to start the year off the way you want it to continue.

Tip Six: Ease Back In

Give yourself and your students time to readjust again. Review familiar material. Make joyful music together. Don't jump immediately into reviewing material that was just learned before break.

Tip Seven: Spend Time Doing Something That Rejuvenates You Over Break

Rest in the way that you want. This will look different for all of us! Take a nap, go to a party, spend time with family, go shopping, read a book.

Tip Eight: Give Yourself Something to Look Forward to on the First Day Back

Wear your favorite outfit. Leave on time. Change into pjs as soon as you're home. Order dinner out or go out. Plan to watch a Netflix show.

Tip Nine: Expect it to be a Great Year

Look at the remainder of the year in a positive way. Expect it to be good. Then work towards making it good.

Articles mentioned on the podcast

How to Avoid Ruining Your Christmas Break by Carey Nieuwhof

Teachers Who Relax During Christmas Avoid Burnout by Sarah Marsh

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