#5—Find more than just one mentor. Talk with them everyday. Find mentors that have anything from 2 to 2 million years of teaching. Anyone is a mentor above one year of experience, lol.
#4—Don’t Overwork or Overload yourself. Do what you need to do and recognize if you are adding too many hours to your day and CUT THEM. You can do extra-curriculum activities but know what you are getting into. Examples the yearbook, clubs, tutoring, etc. take heed to jumping into it.
#3—Avoid Burnout with a life outside of the classroom. All teachers are a “247 Teacher”. It will be in your mind even without wanting–Hence Burnout for new teachers. According to the Department of Education, HALF of new teachers will leave within 5 years. That means go to the movies, call your parents, take a mini vacation, go shopping (Non School Related). Make a life outside the classroom to clear and keep you mental health like a joyful toddler.
#2—Positive Vibrations. Play music, dance, sing, journal or diary and keep the vibes positive. Most teachers completed a level of psychology courses and if you have, you know, your mental can swing and self-fulfill within a couple thoughts. Keep those thoughts Positive! 5 Positives to 1 Negative.
#1—Remember, YOU ARE A PRO! According to the Department of Education, the majority of your colleagues, students, admins, staff, parents view you as a professional with the same status prestige of any professional lawyer, doctor, admiral, engineer, or pilot. Back to the Positive Vibes, give yourself credit. It was a huge hurdle to make it to your 1st year and YOU WILL SURVIVE like all professionals survive their rookie year.
Final Thoughts and Summary: You are a pro, keep your mental positive, try not to cry too much, get some sleep, avoid bad habits to cope, have a life outside of school, call your mom, walk your dog, continue any hobbies, talk to your mentors, this will come to pass like everything else and the great news is, it’s only ONE YEAR! Please leave your comments below. Good Luck and God Bless, J. Harrod
