Ideas for us BUSY TEACHERS!!

So, apparently, I start every sentence with So.  I actually have to delete it and start over.  Not this time.

I've been reading all these posts of Currently in September and I've notice many of you have a common theme, you need more ME time.  I am going to give you some suggestions that I use to help me have my ME and FAMILY time.

1.  Meal planning: There are several services for low fees that will create a meal plan for you for the week.  They'll include the grocery list, the daily meal, and the recipe.  I've used eMeals but now I use Simple Clean Meals.  I like it better because each meal is on a sheet instead of all the recipes squeezed in on one sheet like eMeals.  It is also "clean" meaning the recipes use unprocessed food.  There a couple canned ingredients like tomatoes or beans but it is no big deal.  I don't use all the recipes, but I'll pick the ones I like.

2.  To Do Lists: about 15 minutes before I leave for the day I make a list of what I need to do the next day.  I prioritize what has to be done that day, that week, and what can be pushed back to the back burner.  I designate a small notebook for all my to do lists.  I don't like post-its because they lose their stickiness and they are all over the place.  So, I take that list, make a pile of what I have to do (copy, file, make) and leave my list on top or put it in my box (which is right next to the copier).

3.  Designated Space for everything!  Organization is what keeps me sane.  If I am not organized my ME and FAMILY time go out the window.  If there comes to be an item that doesn't have a place, I find a place for it.

4.  Take an hour for yourself, hopefully more.  Book a pedicure, go shopping, nap, watch TV, go see a movie by yourself. But it is important!

5.  I know this is hard for people, but don't mingle too much with your colleagues.  I will only speak with my colleagues for about 10 minutes after the kids leave because work is to be done.  I am friends with many but I will socialize after I am done.  Many will stay a long time talking in the halls and classrooms and stay into the late afternoon.  Not I.  I will set up HH or dinner with them but then that turns into my ME and FAMILY and now FRIENDS time.

6.  GO HOME!  Enjoy your family and friends, and your time!  I know it is easy to stay late or take it home because you justify that you can get it done when you have a moment.  Especially those that don't have children yet, it is easy to just always work.  I have a colleague that would stay til 8 or later every day.  It was a chore to get her out the door.  This year, she is determined to have a balanced life.

Your balanced life is important.  We all love teaching and we wouldn't do it if we didn't love it.  You need to love yourself first, and then you'll be your best for your students!

Here is my currently...

 I love my daughter too, but that is a given!  I also can't wait til next week, but I can't tell you why right now!!  I will tell you when I can...