Teaching is tough. No two days are the same, which is also what makes our job the best. But, for real, it. is. tough.
Legislation changes, new students in the middle of the year, a million and one meetings… the list goes on and on.
And I will be the first to admit that some mornings I struggle to get out of bed to do the one thing I love: teaching.
I truly love teaching, and I know that you do too. But if you’re like me, which I’m guessing you are, you struggle with feeling like you are not enough as a teacher. Or maybe you give 110% at school and go home and struggle with emotions of also being a mom, a wife, a sister, an aunt… a regular person who has a life outside of teaching.
As teachers, we often feel less than important, unsupported, and under-appreciated.
So when times get tough and you need a pick me up (that can’t be fixed with a quick candy stash visit), try and remember these affirmations:
I am not alone.
It is okay to feel the way I feel. I am not alone.
I believe in myself. I believe in my abilities as a teacher.
I am always doing the best that I can.
I am in the right place. I am meant to be a teacher.
I am a competent and capable teacher. I am confident in my abilities.
I am a valuable asset to my school, my district, and my community.
I have a powerful gift. I have something important to share.
I am a dedicated champion.
I make my classroom great. My students make my classroom great. Together we make magic happen.
I make a difference in my students’ lives.
I see each student as an individual. I see each student for who they are and what they can do and who they can be.
The work I do every single day matters.
It is okay to stray from the lesson plan. I am flexible. I am creative.
It is okay to have fun in school. It is okay for the kids to be kids.
I love my students. My students love me.
I am a better teacher because of my students. My students are better humans because of me.
I make a positive difference in my students’ lives.
I am important. And I matter.
I am amazing, and I am prepared to succeed.
I am proud to be a teacher.
