As an educator, it’s easy to get overwhelmed with all of the things we need to get done each day to support our students. Trying to get everything done and maintain boundaries can be tricky, but it's not impossible! Learn how to plan your time effectively.
Additional Context: Before we get started, remember that an unmanageable sense of urgency is a function of white supremacy, as defined by Tema Okun. We are in a demanding field that requires time-sensitive decision-making skills, but that should not cost us our personal well-being or ability to enjoy life outside of the classroom. The following strategies will allow you to integrate time to take of yourself while getting things done!
The Year Ahead
Over the course of the school year, there are times that are busier than others and/or may require more energy from you (i.e. beginning of the year, when grades are due, the October and March slump). Understanding and planning for these occurrences by reviewing your school's academic calendar against your personal calendar and responsibilities at least once a month will ensure nothing sneaks up on you. Don't forget to include school breaks, events, and how you may use your time off!
Month to Month
After scoping out your school year, looking at your month-to-month goals and priorities is essential. Each month you will need to make note of your school and personal responsibilities. Having a central location where everything lives, whether in a paper planner or digital calendar, will allow you to see what is taking up the majority of your time anywhere you need to schedule time to pour into yourself.
Week to Week
Ready to dive into your week? Preparation and flexibility are the keys to having a week that meets your needs. After glancing at your monthly priorities, you can ensure all of your responsibilities for the week are accounted for and notice which days will be busier than others and when you can move around commitments to balance out your week. We all have different days during the week where we have more or less energy. Be cognizant of that and schedule time to prep lessons, input grades, or analyze student data that align with when you will have more energy. Once all of your weekly priorities are listed make sure to list when you will do nothing but take care of yourself!
Day By Day
I have yet to see 2 school days that are exactly the same and understanding how you will adapt to meet the unexpected will allow you to reduce unneeded stress. Determine what is most important to you, including how you want to start and end your day, and plan accordingly! Ensure you are referring to your weekly responsibilities as you figure out what needs to be completed before you finish your day. Using a to-do list, digital calendar, or another method and referring to it throughout the day can help you stay focused on all the things you need to get done and how you can make space for your needs.
A Note on Planning Time:
Leveraging any planning time you have throughout the day will allow you to spend more time outside of school pouring into yourself. Create a plan for how you will spend your non-instructional time with specific tasks that you will start or complete. Balancing time to collaborate with colleagues, meet with families, and complete school required tasks should be the focus for this time.
Need some resources to plan your time! Grab my Planner Essentials for Educators by joining my smiling list using the form below!
