Six tips for avoiding teaching burnout

In 2019, research conducted by SBS found that teachers are more susceptible to work-related stress and burnout than many other occupations.

Here are six hints to help you beat the burnout blues:

1. Seek support

“Teachers need to be more willing to look to peers for help when things get tough,” says Australian Institute for Teaching and School Leadership (AITSL) CEO Mark Grant. The AITSL “My Induction” app can help new teachers find help: www.aitsl.edu.au

2. “Me” time

It may be useful to seek enjoyment in things unrelated to your work. Connecting with friends, exercise, good nutrition and getting plenty of sleep form a good foundation. Making time to engage in hobbies or travel will nourish your mind and body as you recharge.

3. Get moving

In a recent survey of six industries by workforce analysis company WorkScore, teachers came last in the amount of physical activity performed. If your lunch breaks are packed with marking and admin, try setting one break a week aside for fitness – perhaps take a walk with a colleague.

4. Set boundaries

Former teacher and now consultant Elizabeth Daicos says boundary-setting can help keep burnout at bay. “Go home – don’t take work, don’t think about work, plan something else instead,” she says. Use that time to recharge.

5. Course material

Daicos advises that if the day in, day out grind is impacting your job, try to mix it up. “Change projects every year so there is something new for you as a teacher to look forward to and to challenge yourself,” she says.

6. Alternative paths

If after all attempts, you are still struggling to find the passion for your current role, it doesn’t mean you have to change careers completely. It could be a good opportunity to utilise your current skill set and take the next step in your career in education.

There are many benefits to working as a teacher, from working with subject matter you’re passionate about to shaping future generations. Sometimes all you need to fall in love with teaching again is a much needed break to recharge.

This is an edited version of an article that appeared in the November edition of ThinkBank. The full article can be found at: www.tmbank.com.au/thinkbank/lifestyle/tips-to-avoid-teaching-burnout