Today we’re going to talk about 4 ways to deal with music teacher burnout. I recorded a podcast episode to go right along with this blog post that you can listen to here.
I saw a quote from the site Bored Teachers this week that says “Teachers in August…I’m organized and prepared for the next 4 weeks. Teachers in March…I have no idea what’s happening and I’m prepared for the next 4 minutes.”
How many of you feel like this is you? You feel like you’re like the little engine that could and you’re barely making it. Maybe this is your first year teaching, so you’ve never experienced a true Spring in the music room, so all of this is new to you. Or, maybe you’ve taught for years, but every year this time of year sneaks up on you and you feel like you’re just going through the motions. So, if this is something you’ve been battling, we’re going to talk about how it’s completely normal to feel this way and ways to deal with music teacher burnout..
Talk about your overwhelming feelings
The first thing to do when you’re battling teacher burnout and overwhelm is talk about it to other teachers, friends or family. Venting and just having others listen to what you’re going through is needed and so important.
It’s when you hold it all in, you feel like you’re so stressed out, and that causes a problem. Honestly sometimes what works for me is just writing down my feelings or praying about it. Something about just saying to someone or even yourself (yes sometimes I talk to myself ha) really helps release those feelings so you’re not hanging onto them anymore.
Recharge your batteries
Take time for yourself to recharge your batteries. Towards the end of the year (and before Spring break) everyone is tired and worn out. You’re all starting to not like each other some days. The students are arguing more and Spring fever is in full force. Sometimes even just taking a 5 minute breather somewhere quiet (yes even in the bathroom) can help a lot.
If you’re having a particularly rough day, during your plan time, take the first 10 minutes to just rest. Eat a candy bar, read a chapter from your favorite non educational book, or even just sit in silence for a second. Honestly, when you take the time to take care of yourself, you’ll feel like you can take a deep breath and continue through the rest of your day.
Change up your lesson plans
If your lesson plans aren’t working, it’s ok to try something else. Maybe things have been going well all year, but now you find your students are a little bit more squirrely. If this is the case, do LOTS more movement activities. The phrase “if you can’t beat them, join them” definitely applies to this time of the year.
Now, this does not mean all classroom management strategies like we discussed in this blog post go out the window. What it means though, is you’re flexible enough to know when something isn’t working and to adjust your plans accordingly. Maybe you plan some lessons outside. If it’s a nice day, have students create rhythms together, come up with movement activities, or bring music outside and let them dance. Sometimes, once you try the same lesson you tried the week before that didn’t work again, it will go a lot smoother. It’s kind of like hitting the reset button.
Know that you’re not alone
Know that you aren’t the only teacher feeling overwhelmed and burnt out, especially this time of year. I know it feels like you are and you’re afraid if you mention the fact that you just didn’t feel like coming to work today, you feel like you’re going to be judged and misunderstood. But, that’s not the case at all. If a teacher tells you that they never feel this way, they’re lying 100%. The feelings you’re feeling are completely normal.
You’re battling Spring fever with your students, summer is inching closer, your upper elementary kiddos are not cooperating as much as they used to. Also, there’s about 578 end of the year things already being scheduled. It’s all very overwhelming.
So feel those feelings music teacher, and then just keep going on full speed ahead. Remember to take a breather when needed, or go home and really relax. It’s so hard to stop thinking about everything that needs to get done, but when you’re home, really try to be home and give yourself the break you need.
Are you feeling burnt out as a music teacher? What is something you can do today to take the time to relax? I’d love to hear all about it in the comments below or share your thoughts on social media as you share this post.
Also, I’d love for you to share this post or any of the resources on my website with a friend or colleague who you know NEEDS to see it.
P.S. Are you feeling frustrated or stuck as an elementary music teacher? Check out these free resources to help you teach elementary music with confidence!
Also…I wrote a book called “Make A Note: What You Really Need To Know About Teaching Elementary Music” to help music teachers move forward in your teaching career. You can get your copy here.
