burn out

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burn out
By Kristie

I have taught for seven years and I, too, experienced what you are talking about. In fact, I feel this way every single year before I start. I think one thing that may bother you, and I know it bothers me, is that the "honeymoon"
is over. Sleeping in late, going to bed when you want to, not spending your nights and weekends doing schoolwork, being able to go to the bathroom when you want to, not having to cope with problem kids and problem parents, not having to listen to your nagging principal, not gobbling down your lunch, leisurely moments on the shady porch drinking iced tea, exciting travel, trips

to the beach, and so forth. You are having to give up all of that now, and, of course, that is depressing. I went back to work on Friday, and I cried when I left my house. It's back to the grind now.

It was only a workday, but once I got together with my fellow teachers, I felt much better. I also went out and bought some fresh new things for my classroom and rearranged it to look differently. I took a final look at my room as I was leaving it at the end of the day and admired my fresh, new bulletin boards. I really DID feel much more enthusiastic once I got started, and I think you will, too.

Perhaps one reason you feel tired and unenthusiastic is that you aren't getting away from school. I wanted to work in the summertime, but I realized that I also had to clear my mind of school. I went to work for a temporary help agency which actually paid me pretty well and was enjoyable because it was different. Maybe you'd like to consider doing something like that next summer. Also, if you can afford it, try to get away from home, even if it's just for a weekend to the beach or mountains.

What you can do right now is browse through the teacher supply store and see the new and pretty stuff they have there. Call or e-mail a fellow teacher you enjoy being with. I did this, and I felt it helped me regain the being at school mindset.