Teachers with Boundaries Podcast: Recent Episodes
Gemma Drinkall
The Teachers with Boundaries Podcast is for classroom teachers, middle leaders and senior leaders who know they want to avoid burnout and enjoy a sustainable career in education. You're ready to take back control and enjoy teaching again - through creating boundaries, reducing teacher guilt and stress, and achieving a happier work-life blend. This podcast is hosted by Gemma Drinkall. A former secondary school teacher and middle leader, Gemma is now an educational wellbeing coach, helping teachers to create clear boundaries so that they can love teaching again. She'll share what works, what doesn't work and how you can learn from her experiences of teacher burnout. This show is the one to listen to if you want to switch off from teaching, reduce the overwhelm and guilt, and increase your time, energy and happiness. This podcast is the one to listen to if you're ready to thrive and not just survive.
gemmadrinkall.substack.com
Despite going into teaching to “teach”, it turns out a large amount of your job is responding to emails. This can leave you feeling switched “on” beyond your time each day in the classroom. This makes it difficult to escape teaching when you are seeking a happy work-life balance.
What you will learn in this episode:
- The negative impact multitasking can have on your productivity
- The habit loops that form when you have email notifications switched on
- The positive impact reducing your contactability can have on your stress levels
By reducing the time you spend on your teacher emails, you’ll discover more free time, energy and focus for yourself. Take time out this week to review your notification settings so that you can feel in control of your focus again.
Resources:
- FREE 5 tips to switch off from teaching and switch on to your life: https://www.subscribepage.com/switchoffteaching
- Join our friendly Facebook Community: www.facebook.com/groups/teacherswithboundaries
- Find me on Instagram: www.instagram.com/gemmadrinkall_headsphere/
- Facebook: www.facebook.com/GemmaDrinkallHeadSphere
- LinkedIn: www.linkedin.com/in/gemma-drinkall-10a9861a0/
- Twitter: www.twitter.com/Gemma_Drinkall
- Linktree: www.linktr.ee/GemmaDrinkall
- “How Long It Takes to Get Back on Track After a Distraction” https://lifehacker.com/how-long-it-takes-to-get-back-on-track-after-a-distract-1720708353
With the never ending workload, pressure and scrutiny that teachers face, the job can feel like it has taken over your life. However, some teachers manage to develop a positive work-life balance that empowers them to treat teaching like the job it is whilst enjoying life outside of the classroom. This episode explores some of their secrets.
What you will learn in this episode:
- How some teachers manage to have a happy work-life balance
- The importance of acknowledging that teaching is an impossible job
- Tips that will help you to create your own work-life balance
Take time out this week to reflect on what small steps you could take this week to begin creating the work-life balance you deserve. Also check out the Teacher B.O.U.N.D.A.R.I.E.S. Course below, which gives you every step you need to create clear boundaries in teaching.
Resources:
- Teacher B.O.U.N.D.A.R.I.E.S.: The Course https://buy.stripe.com/3cs3dN4SEcTYceY28j
- Join our friendly Facebook Community: www.facebook.com/groups/teacherswithboundaries
- FREE 5 tips to switch off from teaching and switch on to your life: https://www.subscribepage.com/switchoffteaching
- Find me on Instagram: www.instagram.com/gemmadrinkall_headsphere/
- Facebook: www.facebook.com/GemmaDrinkallHeadSphere
- LinkedIn: www.linkedin.com/in/gemma-drinkall-10a9861a0/
- Twitter: www.twitter.com/Gemma_Drinkall • Linktree: www.linktr.ee/GemmaDrinkall
- 5 Second Rule by Mel Robbins
It is often said in teaching that the only ways to get a work-life balance is to go part time (and work on your days off) or quit. The statistics appear to support this view as 1 in 3 teachers are leaving in their first five years. However, there is another way: boundaries.
What you will learn in this episode:
- Why teachers may quit or go part time
- The importance of having a work-life balance in teaching
- Steps you can take to create a work-life balance
Accelerate your progress by signing up for the FREE 3 Steps to a Happy Teacher Work-Life Balance Masterclass taking place on Tuesday 31st January at 8pm GMT. Here’s the link to sign up: https://www.subscribepage.com/3stepstoteacherworklifebalance
Resources:
- Sign up for the FREE 3 Steps to a Happy Teacher Work-Life Balance Masterclass: https://www.subscribepage.com/3stepstoteacherworklifebalance
- Join our friendly Facebook Community: www.facebook.com/groups/teacherswithboundaries
- Find me on Instagram: www.instagram.com/gemmadrinkall_headsphere/
- Facebook: www.facebook.com/GemmaDrinkallHeadSphere
- LinkedIn: www.linkedin.com/in/gemma-drinkall-10a9861a0/
- Twitter: www.twitter.com/Gemma_Drinkall
- Linktree: www.linktr.ee/GemmaDrinkall
Sometimes saying no in teaching just feels wrong. It feels wrong to disappoint someone. It feels like you are saying no to the students and that is the worst thing a teacher can do. Yet, when you keep saying yes to school, you risk saying no to your own needs, which can ultimately impact the quality of your teaching and work-life balance.
What you will learn in this episode:
- How saying no to yourself may be impacting you
- The value of saying no in teaching
- How saying no can improve the quality of your teaching
Accelerate your progress by signing up for the FREE 3 Steps to a Happy Teacher Work-Life Balance Masterclass taking place on Tuesday 31st January at 8pm GMT. Here’s the link to sign up: https://www.subscribepage.com/3stepstoteacherworklifebalance
Resources:
- Sign up for the FREE 3 Steps to a Happy Teacher Work-Life Balance Masterclass: https://www.subscribepage.com/3stepstoteacherworklifebalance
- Join our friendly Facebook Community: www.facebook.com/groups/teacherswithboundaries
- Find me on Instagram: www.instagram.com/gemmadrinkall_headsphere/
- Facebook: www.facebook.com/GemmaDrinkallHeadSphere
- LinkedIn: www.linkedin.com/in/gemma-drinkall-10a9861a0/
- Twitter: www.twitter.com/Gemma_Drinkall
- Linktree: www.linktr.ee/GemmaDrinkall
Finding a happy work-life balance in teaching is tricky. It feels like the job is a never ending onslaught of tasks, emails and paperwork. And that’s before you get into the classroom! There may be things in your way that are preventing you from creating the work-life balance you crave. This episode explores some of these and the small steps you could take to make valuable changes.
What you will learn in this episode:
- How you may be standing in the way of your ideal work-life balance
- The power of saying no
- Ways you can reduce your workload
Boundaries are the main tool you can use to unblock your work-life balance and begin to thrive in teaching again. When you have boundaries, you feel happier, stronger and more resilient. This will help your work-life balance every day of the week.
Accelerate your progress by signing up for the FREE 3 Steps to a Happy Teacher Work-Life Balance Masterclass taking place on Tuesday 31st January at 8pm GMT. Here’s the link to sign up: https://www.subscribepage.com/3stepstoteacherworklifebalance
Resources:
- Sign up for the FREE 3 Steps to a Happy Teacher Work-Life Balance Masterclass: https://www.subscribepage.com/3stepstoteacherworklifebalance
- Join our friendly Facebook Community: www.facebook.com/groups/teacherswithboundaries
- Find me on Instagram: www.instagram.com/gemmadrinkall_headsphere/
- Facebook: www.facebook.com/GemmaDrinkallHeadSphere
- LinkedIn: www.linkedin.com/in/gemma-drinkall-10a9861a0/
- Twitter: www.twitter.com/Gemma_Drinkall
- Linktree: www.linktr.ee/GemmaDrinkall
- Department of Education School Workload Reduction Toolkit: https://www.gov.uk/guidance/school-workload-reduction-toolkit
- TES: More teachers buying pupils clothes and food: https://www.tes.com/magazine/news/general/teacher-recruitment-retention-more-teachers-step-buy-pupils-clothes-and-food
Christmas and New Year begin to feel like a distant memory this week. The enjoyment of the festive season pales as the new school term takes hold. It is important to take stock and explore how you can create a work-life balance that enables you to enjoy teaching and life during the new term.
What you will learn in this episode:
- How physical boundaries can help you create a happy work-life balance
- Why having boundaries benefits your students
- How a change of perspective can help you enjoy teaching again
The New Year brings an opportunity for a fresh start where you can create the boundaries you need to protect your wellbeing and enjoy a happy work-life balance. Accelerate your progress by signing up for the FREE Teacher Boundaries Challenge starting on 15/1/23. Here’s the link to sign up: https://www.subscribepage.com/teacherboundarieschallenge
Resources:
- Sign up for the FREE Teacher Boundaries Challenge https://www.subscribepage.com/teacherboundarieschallenge
- Join our friendly Facebook Community: www.facebook.com/groups/teacherswithboundaries
- Find me on Instagram: www.instagram.com/gemmadrinkall_headsphere/
- Facebook: www.facebook.com/GemmaDrinkallHeadSphere
- LinkedIn: www.linkedin.com/in/gemma-drinkall-10a9861a0/
- Twitter: twitter.com/Gemma_Drinkall
- Linktree: linktr.ee/GemmaDrinkall
The New Year can fill you with optimism, hope and excitement. And you may begin the New Year with high expectations for yourself. Sometimes though this can result in disappointment. Yet, there is a fine balance to be had that will help you to thrive in teaching as you begin 2023.
What you will learn in this episode:
• How to make time for yourself
• The importance of setting boundaries in the new school term
• How to thrive in teaching in the New Year
As you return to school this week, prioritise your boundaries and start the year as you wish to go on: thriving in teaching.
Resources:
• FREE 5 tips to switch off from teaching and switch on to your life: https://www.subscribepage.com/switchoffteaching
• James Clear, Atomic Habits: https://www.bookdepository.com/Atomic-Habits-James-Clear/9781847941831
• Join our friendly Facebook Community: www.facebook.com/groups/teacherswithboundaries
• Find me on Instagram: www.instagram.com/gemmadrinkall_headsphere/
• Facebook: www.facebook.com/GemmaDrinkallHeadSphere
• LinkedIn: www.linkedin.com/in/gemma-drinkall-10a9861a0/
• Twitter: twitter.com/Gemma_Drinkall
• Linktree: linktr.ee/GemmaDrinkall
Christmas is a festive blur. You spend the run up to Christmas frantically buying presents for family and friends, buying and decorating a tree and buying enough food for everyone. Then before you know it, the New Year is in and you’re back at school having hardly taken a moment of pause for yourself. In truth, Christmas is just plain exhausting for most of us. It can be challenging to find space for ourselves during this time.
What you will learn in this episode:
• How to find time for yourself over Christmas
• The benefits of finding moments to pause
• How this will benefit your return to school
Christmas is a wonderful time of year. Make sure that you make the most of it by giving yourself the time and space that you need. Wishing you a wonderful end to 2022 and a Happy New Year!
Resources:
• Join our friendly Facebook Community and buy Teacher B.O.U.N.D.A.R.I.E.S: The Course: www.facebook.com/groups/teacherswithboundaries
• FREE 5 tips to switch off from teaching and switch on to your life: https://www.subscribepage.com/switchoffteaching
• Find me on Instagram: www.instagram.com/gemmadrinkall_headsphere/
• Facebook: www.facebook.com/GemmaDrinkallHeadSphere
• LinkedIn: www.linkedin.com/in/gemma-drinkall-10a9861a0/
• Twitter: twitter.com/Gemma_Drinkall
• Linktree: linktr.ee/GemmaDrinkall
No matter how much you look forward to Christmas, teacher guilt can follow you into the festive season. You feel guilty for having left some items on your to-do list. You feel guilty that there is a bag of marking in the corner vying for your attention. Let’s face it, teaching can put a dampener on the festive season!
What you will learn in this episode:
• How to switch off from teaching guilt free over Christmas
• The importance of being organised during Christmas
• That you deserve to have time off from school
Whether you are a Christmas elf or a scrooge, Christmas is a great time for slowing down, enjoying time with family and friends and drawing the year to a close. Make sure that you give yourself the best opportunity to switch off from teaching using the tips in this episode.
Resources:
• Join our friendly Facebook Community and buy Teacher B.O.U.N.D.A.R.I.E.S: The Course: www.facebook.com/groups/teacherswithboundaries
• FREE 5 tips to switch off from teaching and switch on to your life: https://www.subscribepage.com/switchoffteaching
• Find me on Instagram: www.instagram.com/gemmadrinkall_headsphere/
• Facebook: www.facebook.com/GemmaDrinkallHeadSphere
• LinkedIn: www.linkedin.com/in/gemma-drinkall-10a9861a0/
• Twitter: twitter.com/Gemma_Drinkall
• Linktree: linktr.ee/GemmaDrinkall
The B.O.U.N.D.A.R.I.E.S. Framework has been created to empower you to thrive in teaching. It aims to help you to create a work-life blend that works for you, switch off from teaching and switch on in your life and also reduce your workload.
What you will learn in this episode:
• How the Framework helps you to create clear boundaries
• How the Framework benefits schools
• What you can do to put the B.O.U.N.D.A.R.I.E.S. Framework into action today
The Framework starts from the premise that when you pour from a full cup, both you and your students thrive.
Take advantage of Teacher BO.U.N.D.A.R.I.E.S.: The Course today by joining the Teachers with Boundaries Facebook group and get the course for only £24.99. The link is below.
Resources:
• Join our friendly Facebook Community and buy Teacher B.O.U.N.D.A.R.I.E.S: The Course: www.facebook.com/groups/teacherswithboundaries
• FREE 5 tips to switch off from teaching and switch on to your life: https://www.subscribepage.com/switchoffteaching
• Find me on Instagram: www.instagram.com/gemmadrinkall_headsphere/
• Facebook: www.facebook.com/GemmaDrinkallHeadSphere
• LinkedIn: www.linkedin.com/in/gemma-drinkall-10a9861a0/
• Twitter: twitter.com/Gemma_Drinkall
• Linktree: linktr.ee/GemmaDrinkall
• School workload reduction toolkit: https://www.gov.uk/guidance/school-workload-reduction-toolkit
• “The impact of teacher wellbeing and mental health on pupil progress in primary schools” https://www.leedsbeckett.ac.uk/carnegie-school-of-education/research/carnegie-centre-of-excellence-for-mental-health-in-schools/school-mental-health-network/-/media/253bcf64213a4a8582a2a0a2be6b1d49.ashx
Whether you are a Christmas Elf or a Scrooge, there is no denying that the festive season is finally upon us! It is now completely legitimate to stick on Wham!, deck the halls and begin wishing anyone and everyone a Merry Christmas. (Is it obvious yet that I am, in fact, a Christmas Elf?) Yet, the time of Advent can give us some valuable reflections when it comes to teacher wellbeing.
What you will learn in this episode:
• How Advent can lead us to appreciate the small things
• The importance of treating yourself everyday
• How to focus on what really matters to you in your life
Whether this is your favourite time of the year or not, there are opportunities to discover that will help you to create clear boundaries so that you can thrive in teaching. Have a go at the suggestions in this episode and see how you get on.
Resources:
• FREE 4 types of boundaries you need to thrive in teaching and 4 steps you can take to create them: https://www.subscribepage.com/typesofboundaries
• Join our friendly Facebook Community: www.facebook.com/groups/teacherswithboundaries
• Find me on Instagram: www.instagram.com/gemmadrinkall_headsphere/
• Facebook: www.facebook.com/GemmaDrinkallHeadSphere
• LinkedIn: www.linkedin.com/in/gemma-drinkall-10a9861a0/
• Twitter: twitter.com/Gemma_Drinkall
• Linktree: linktr.ee/GemmaDrinkall
Teacher presenteeism is rife. Education Support report that 46% of teachers always go into work when unwell. Although this may seem admirable, it is actually having a negative impact on your teacher wellbeing and that of your colleagues. In order to thrive in teaching, you must put your needs first.
What you will learn in this episode:
• The pressures to go into school when you are unwell
• How going in when you are unwell is not in your students’ best interests
• The importance of putting your needs first
Teacher presenteeism is a pandemic within itself and is weakening education as teachers wear themselves into the ground. Yet, it doesn’t have to be like this. As a teacher, you should always prioritise your own needs first. What you need are boundaries. Check out my free resource below for top tips and advice.
Resources:
• FREE 4 types of boundaries you need to thrive in teaching and 4 steps you can take to create them: https://www.subscribepage.com/typesofboundaries
• Join our friendly Facebook Community: www.facebook.com/groups/teacherswithboundaries
• Find me on Instagram: www.instagram.com/gemmadrinkall_headsphere/
• Facebook: www.facebook.com/GemmaDrinkallHeadSphere
• LinkedIn: www.linkedin.com/in/gemma-drinkall-10a9861a0/
• Twitter: twitter.com/Gemma_Drinkall
• Linktree: linktr.ee/GemmaDrinkall
Despite schools being full to the brim of human beings, the sector is guilty of not always treating its occupants in the most compassionate and humane manner. Data-driven, results-based, progression-centred: the education sector has lost its heart. Although schools are dedicated to the needs and wellbeing of their students, it’s not always so easy to see this care being given to staff. In order to retain staff and help them to thrive, schools can become more human-centric.
What you will learn in this episode:
• What the human-centric model is
• How it will help schools to support teacher wellbeing
• Steps schools can take to put this model into practice
Despite education being a human-filled sector, more can be done to support the humans within the sector. Schools cannot run without teachers. Therefore, it is imperative that teacher-wellbeing is put in the centre of all schools. Ultimately, everyone will benefit.
Resources:
• FREE 4 types of boundaries you need to thrive in teaching and 4 steps you can take to create them: https://www.subscribepage.com/typesofboundaries
• Human-centred design: https://www.shopify.com/ca/partners/blog/human-centered-design
• Join our friendly Facebook Community: www.facebook.com/groups/teacherswithboundaries
• Find me on Instagram: www.instagram.com/gemmadrinkall_headsphere/
• Facebook: www.facebook.com/GemmaDrinkallHeadSphere
• LinkedIn: www.linkedin.com/in/gemma-drinkall-10a9861a0/
• Twitter: twitter.com/Gemma_Drinkall • Linktree: linktr.ee/GemmaDrinkall
Teaching can often feel like a never-ending to-do list. More seems to be added at the top with not enough things being ticked off at the bottom. It can feel like an endless cycle. If you feel like this, you’re not alone. According to TES, 37% of teachers reported that they work more than 51 hours a week and a total of 68% say the volume of workload was a “major reason” for considering leaving the profession. When this is the case, a work-life blend can feel like a pipe dream.
What you will learn in this episode:
• The difference between a work-life balance and a work-life blend
• Some of the barriers that stand in the way of teachers’ work-life blend
• Steps you can take to give yourself a work-life blend
There are things that you as an individual teacher can do to bring about your own ideal work-life blend. Try out the suggestions in this episode and see how you get on.
Resources:
• FREE 5 tips to switch off from teaching and switch on to your life: https://www.subscribepage.com/switchoffteaching
• Join our friendly Facebook Community: www.facebook.com/groups/teacherswithboundaries
• Find me on Instagram: www.instagram.com/gemmadrinkall_headsphere/
• Facebook: www.facebook.com/GemmaDrinkallHeadSphere
• LinkedIn: www.linkedin.com/in/gemma-drinkall-10a9861a0/
• Twitter: twitter.com/Gemma_Drinkall
• Linktree: linktr.ee/GemmaDrinkall
Despite the attractions of teaching, the education sector has a retention crisis on its hands. The government is trying to make teaching appealing to graduates with the increased pay for NQTs and the EC. Yet, 1 in 6 teachers are still leaving the sector in their first year. Although there are no easy fixes or short-term wins that will immediately alleviate the crisis, teacher boundaries will help to reform teaching and empower teachers to find a way to thrive in teaching by protecting their wellbeing.
What you will learn in this episode:
• The steps that the DfE are currently taking to alleviate the teacher retention crisis
• How teacher boundaries can be part of the solution
• Quick wins you can introduce to promote your teacher wellbeing
There will be a period of time where the effects of the teacher retention crisis will felt intensely by all involved in the education sector. However, the department of education, schools and individual teachers can take steps now that will help to turn the tide in education for all.
Resources:
• Maslow’ Hierarchy of Needs: https://www.simplypsychology.org/maslow.html
• FREE 5 tips to switch off from teaching and switch on to your life: https://www.subscribepage.com/switchoffteaching
• Join our friendly Facebook Community: www.facebook.com/groups/teacherswithboundaries
• Find me on Instagram: www.instagram.com/gemmadrinkall_headsphere/
• Facebook: www.facebook.com/GemmaDrinkallHeadSphere
• LinkedIn: www.linkedin.com/in/gemma-drinkall-10a9861a0/
• Twitter: twitter.com/Gemma_Drinkall
• Linktree: linktr.ee/GemmaDrinkall
In teaching, it is easy to fall prey to saying yes to everything: saying yes to SLT requests and demands, saying yes to opportunities that may bring you your next promotion or saying yes to students. Yet, there are consequences to saying yes all the time: too many plates to keep spinning, overwhelm or a never ending to-do list! Saying no is tough in teaching but it is vital for creating clear boundaries.
What you will learn in this episode:
• How saying no can avoid disappointment
• How you can say no in a safe and positive manner
• How saying no can empower your students and colleagues
The key thing to remember is that you don’t have to be a people pleaser in school. It is possible and acceptable for you to say no. Give it a try this week.
Resources:
• FREE 5 tips to switch off from teaching and switch on to your life: https://www.subscribepage.com/switchoffteaching
• Join our friendly Facebook Community: www.facebook.com/groups/teacherswithboundaries
• Find me on Instagram: www.instagram.com/gemmadrinkall_headsphere/
• Facebook: www.facebook.com/GemmaDrinkallHeadSphere
• LinkedIn: www.linkedin.com/in/gemma-drinkall-10a9861a0/
• Twitter: twitter.com/Gemma_Drinkall
• Linktree: linktr.ee/GemmaDrinkall
When you are trying to create clear boundaries for yourself in teaching, it can often feel like you are coming up against a system that does not support teachers having boundaries and work-life blends. 1 in 3 teachers are leaving in their first five years of being in the classroom. The education sector currently struggles to recruit enough teachers. Teacher wellbeing is at a low with 77% experiencing symptoms of poor mental health due to their work. No wonder many teachers resolve to leave the profession. It can feel like an uphill struggle with little support from schools themselves to make positive changes. Yet, schools can make minor changes that can empower you to create clear boundaries and love teaching again.
What you will learn in this episode:
• How role modelling boundaries can encourage other members of staff to grow their own
• The impact school culture can have on wellbeing
• The positive impact of teacher wellbeing on student attainment
Take time out this week to consider small changes that could be made in your school to improve teacher boundaries. Take it one step further and chat to your colleagues about what could be done.
Resources:
• FREE 5 tips to switch off from teaching and switch on to your life: https://www.subscribepage.com/switchoffteaching
• Join our friendly Facebook Community: www.facebook.com/groups/teacherswithboundaries
• Find me on Instagram: www.instagram.com/gemmadrinkall_headsphere/
• Facebook: www.facebook.com/GemmaDrinkallHeadSphere
• LinkedIn: www.linkedin.com/in/gemma-drinkall-10a9861a0/
• Twitter: twitter.com/Gemma_Drinkall
• Linktree: linktr.ee/GemmaDrinkall
Teaching is an incredibly fulfilling career but it has a tendency to take over your life if you let it. Learning to switch off is vital because it empowers you to thrive in teaching and enjoy a long, fulfilling career.
What you will learn in this episode:
• What may be stopping you from switching off
• To remember that you are enough and are worthy of switching off
• 3 steps you can take today to help yourself switch off from teaching
To help you switch off more effectively, check out episodes 16 and 28 for tips on how to say no safely and positively. You can also download a FREE 5 tips to switch off from teaching and switch on to your life resource below.
Resources:
• FREE 5 tips to switch off from teaching and switch on to your life: https://www.subscribepage.com/switchoffteaching
• Join our friendly Facebook Community: www.facebook.com/groups/teacherswithboundaries
• Find me on Instagram: www.instagram.com/gemmadrinkall_headsphere/
• Facebook: www.facebook.com/GemmaDrinkallHeadSphere
• LinkedIn: www.linkedin.com/in/gemma-drinkall-10a9861a0/
• Twitter: twitter.com/Gemma_Drinkall
• Linktree: linktr.ee/GemmaDrinkall
Work-life balance can feel like a pipe dream for many teachers. Teaching can often seep into all areas of your life simply because it is a valuable element of your life and can be all consuming at the same time. So, how do you create a work-life balance that works for you?
What you will learn in this episode:
• How you can create a work-life blend that works for you
• The power of choice that you have
• Steps you can take today to create a happy work-life blend with teaching
The word of this episode is CHOICE. You have the choice of how much time and energy you apply to teaching. It’s a case of being brave and taking that active step towards choosing a work-life blend that works for you.
Resources:
• FREE 5 tips to switch off from teaching and switch on to your life: https://www.subscribepage.com/switchoffteaching
• Join our friendly Facebook Community: www.facebook.com/groups/teacherswithboundaries
• Find me on Instagram: www.instagram.com/gemmadrinkall_headsphere/
• Facebook: www.facebook.com/GemmaDrinkallHeadSphere
• LinkedIn: www.linkedin.com/in/gemma-drinkall-10a9861a0/
• Twitter: twitter.com/Gemma_Drinkall
• Linktree: linktr.ee/GemmaDrinkall
Having clear teacher boundaries is hugely beneficial. Not only do you feel better about school and get to have a life outside of school, but studies have shown that your students also benefit when you have better wellbeing.
What you will learn in this episode:
• How you can benefit from having clear teacher boundaries
• The positive impact it can have on your students and colleagues
• The extensive benefits boundaries can have for schools too
If this episode has left you feeling inspired to create your own clear boundaries in teaching, check out my FREE resource that will help you to switch off from teaching, which is available in the links below.
Resources:
• FREE 5 tips to switch off from teaching and switch on to your life: https://www.subscribepage.com/switchoffteaching
• “The impact of teacher wellbeing and mental health on pupil progress in primary schools” https://www.leedsbeckett.ac.uk/carnegie-school-of-education/research/carnegie-centre-of-excellence-for-mental-health-in-schools/school-mental-health-network/-/media/253bcf64213a4a8582a2a0a2be6b1d49.ashx
• Join our friendly Facebook Community: www.facebook.com/groups/teacherswithboundaries
• Find me on Instagram: www.instagram.com/gemmadrinkall_headsphere/
• Facebook: www.facebook.com/GemmaDrinkallHeadSphere
• LinkedIn: www.linkedin.com/in/gemma-drinkall-10a9861a0/
• Twitter: twitter.com/Gemma_Drinkall
• Linktree: linktr.ee/GemmaDrinkall
Why do teachers struggle to create a work-life blend? Sometimes the answer seems to be, “it’s just the way teaching is at the moment.” There are barriers in the way of teachers creating clear boundaries. There are problems within the education sector. This episode explores some of the reasons why the sector struggles to support teachers’ work-life blends.
What you will learn in this episode:
• Some common reasons why boundaries in teaching are challenging
• The toxicity of calling teaching a vocation
• What is in your power to change
It is important to remember that you as an individual teacher can make a difference. This week, start with the small things like making yourself a nourishing lunch and giving yourself time to enjoy it. Also, check out my resource that will help you to switch off from teaching, which is available in the links below.
Resources:
• FREE 5 tips to switch off from teaching and switch on to your life: https://www.subscribepage.com/switchoffteaching
• Join our friendly Facebook Community: www.facebook.com/groups/teacherswithboundaries
• Find me on Instagram: www.instagram.com/gemmadrinkall_headsphere/
• Facebook: www.facebook.com/GemmaDrinkallHeadSphere
• LinkedIn: www.linkedin.com/in/gemma-drinkall-10a9861a0/
• Twitter: twitter.com/Gemma_Drinkall
• Linktree: linktr.ee/GemmaDrinkall
Now that the new school year is in flow, it is important to be aware and maintain your teacher boundaries. There will be common signs that suggest that your teacher boundaries need support so that you can keep thriving in teaching. When you have clear boundaries, you are able to work more efficiently, saving yourself time in school and earning you time and energy outside of teaching.
What you will learn in this episode:
• How you can tell if you need to work on your teacher boundaries
• The impact emails can have on your teacher boundaries
• Quick wins you can do today to create clear boundaries
Boundaries do help you to be more organised, efficient and create time and space for yourself outside of school. Yet, they do more than that; they remind you that you are enough and that you are worthy of having good health and wellbeing. Try out some of the activities in this episode and see the difference it can make to your life.
Resources:
• FREE 5 tips to switch off from teaching and switch on to your life: https://www.subscribepage.com/switchoffteaching
• “How Long It Takes to Get Back on Track After a Distraction” https://lifehacker.com/how-long-it-takes-to-get-back-on-track-after-a-distract-1720708353
• Join our friendly Facebook Community: www.facebook.com/groups/teacherswithboundaries
• Find me on Instagram: www.instagram.com/gemmadrinkall_headsphere/
• Facebook: www.facebook.com/GemmaDrinkallHeadSphere
• LinkedIn: www.linkedin.com/in/gemma-drinkall-10a9861a0/
• Twitter: twitter.com/Gemma_Drinkall
• Linktree: linktr.ee/GemmaDrinkall
When you have teacher boundaries, you give yourself the opportunity to thrive in teaching. Boundaries are the red tape that you put around yourself to protect and promote your teacher wellbeing. They are not a nice-to-have; they are a necessity.
What you will learn in this episode:
• What the four types of boundaries are that you need in teaching
• How the different types of boundaries support one another
• What steps you can begin to take to put these boundaries in place
Boundaries involve creating new habits that empower you to prioritise your wellbeing. By doing so, not only will you find teaching more enjoyable but your students will also make better progress too because they are benefitting from the best version of you. Take time to notice your own boundaries during this week and begin to make small shifts that will make a positive impact.
Resources:
• FREE 5 tips to switch off from teaching and switch on to your life: https://www.subscribepage.com/switchoffteaching
• Join our friendly Facebook Community: www.facebook.com/groups/teacherswithboundaries
• Find me on Instagram: www.instagram.com/gemmadrinkall_headsphere/
• Facebook: www.facebook.com/GemmaDrinkallHeadSphere
• LinkedIn: www.linkedin.com/in/gemma-drinkall-10a9861a0/
• Twitter: twitter.com/Gemma_Drinkall
• Linktree: linktr.ee/GemmaDrinkall
September is officially here! And the summer holidays will soon feel like a distant memory. To counteract this, this week’s episode celebrates both the summer holiday and the new school year by turning the podcast over to you, the listener! Join us to hear your summer highlights and celebrations as well as some amazing top tips for beginning the new school year on a high! Thanks go to our contributors!
Resources:
• FREE 5 tips to switch off from teaching and switch on to your life: https://www.subscribepage.com/switchoffteaching
• Join our friendly Facebook Community: www.facebook.com/groups/teacherswithboundaries
• Find me on Instagram: www.instagram.com/gemmadrinkall_headsphere/
• Facebook: www.facebook.com/GemmaDrinkallHeadSphere
• LinkedIn: www.linkedin.com/in/gemma-drinkall-10a9861a0/
• Twitter: twitter.com/Gemma_Drinkall
• Linktree: linktr.ee/GemmaDrinkall
Welcome to Part 5 of a mini sessions that will help you to make the most of your summer holidays! September is almost upon us and the back to school adrenaline is pumping! Before you dive in, make sure that you have created clear boundaries for yourself that enable you to manage your work-life blend. Take a moment to pause, grab a cuppa and give this episode a listen so that you are sure to start September well.
What you will learn in this episode:
• What boundaries are and how you can take to put them in place
• How to say no without causing offense
• How to effectively manage your school emails
By creating clear boundaries, you are putting yourself first. By putting yourself first, you are better serving your students and school community. This makes you a more effective (and happier!) teacher. If you would like more help with creating clear boundaries, book into my diary. Here’s the link: calendly.com/headsphere/bookacallwithgemma
Resources:
• FREE 5 tips to switch off from teaching and switch on to your life: https://www.subscribepage.com/switchoffteaching
• Join our friendly Facebook Community: www.facebook.com/groups/teacherswithboundaries
• Find me on Instagram: www.instagram.com/gemmadrinkall_headsphere/
• Facebook: www.facebook.com/GemmaDrinkallHeadSphere
• LinkedIn: www.linkedin.com/in/gemma-drinkall-10a9861a0/
• Twitter: twitter.com/Gemma_Drinkall
• Linktree: linktr.ee/GemmaDrinkall
Welcome to Part 4 of a mini sessions that will help you to make the most of your summer holidays! Returning to school can feel like the Sunday evening dread amplified by 10. You may begin to feel the anxiety fluttering in your stomach or your mind may be whirring with new school year worries. Now is the time to prepare for the kind of September that you want. This episode will give you some tools for how.
What you will learn in this episode:
• The steps you can take to prepare for September now
• How to reduce back to school stress
• Practical tips to smooth our your return to school
To learn more about how to have a great start to September at school, sign up for the “Back to School Calm” Masterclass taking place on Wednesday 24th August 2022 at 8pm. Discover how to remove new term anxiety, overwhelm and resentment and instead return to school calm, confident and energised. The sign up link is below.
Resources:
• Back to School Calm Masterclass: https://www.subscribepage.com/backtoschoolcalmmasterclass
• FREE 5 tips to switch off from teaching and switch on to your life: https://www.subscribepage.com/switchoffteaching
• Join our friendly Facebook Community: www.facebook.com/groups/teacherswithboundaries
• Find me on Instagram: www.instagram.com/gemmadrinkall_headsphere/
• Facebook: www.facebook.com/GemmaDrinkallHeadSphere
• LinkedIn: www.linkedin.com/in/gemma-drinkall-10a9861a0/
• Twitter: twitter.com/Gemma_Drinkall
• Linktree: linktr.ee/GemmaDrinkall
Welcome to Part 3 of a mini sessions that will help you to make the most of your summer holidays! It is now mid-August and the new school year anxiety is beginning to creep in, slowly but surely. You’re experiencing a conflict: a desire to be ready for September but also to hold on to the holiday feeling for a bit longer. Ultimately, it is a decision that only you can make: you need to decide how much preparation you want to do for school compared to how much you want to relax in holiday mode.
What you will learn in this episode:
• Tools that will help you manage your workload during the summer holidays
• How you can prioritise your school work
• How reframing your school work can empower you to feel in control and confident
There is a balance to be struck between holiday mode and school mode. Use the tools discussed in this episode to help you find the work-life balance that works for you. Remember to also sign up for the “Back to School Calm” Masterclass taking place on Wednesday 24th August 2022 at 8pm to learn how to remove new term anxiety, overwhelm and resentment and instead return to school calm, confident and energised. The sign up link is below.
Resources:
• Back to School Calm Masterclass: https://www.subscribepage.com/backtoschoolcalmmasterclass
• FREE 5 tips to switch off from teaching and switch on to your life: https://www.subscribepage.com/switchoffteaching
• Join our friendly Facebook Community: www.facebook.com/groups/teacherswithboundaries
• Find me on Instagram: www.instagram.com/gemmadrinkall_headsphere/
• Facebook: www.facebook.com/GemmaDrinkallHeadSphere
• LinkedIn: www.linkedin.com/in/gemma-drinkall-10a9861a0/
• Twitter: twitter.com/Gemma_Drinkall
• Linktree: linktr.ee/GemmaDrinkall
Welcome to Part 2 of a mini sessions that will help you to make the most of your summer holidays!
At the beginning of the summer holidays, the weeks stretch ahead of you, full of hope and possibility. And because of this, you may apply pressure on yourself to make the most of the time. This pressure can then detract from your enjoyment and prevent you from not making the most of your time.
What you will learn in this episode:
• The impact your expectations can have on your summer holiday enjoyment
• How 1st September can positively shape your summer holiday experience
• How reflecting on your values can help you have a great summer holiday
How you choose to spend your summer holidays is completely up to you. Avoid the pressure and create a bucket list that will help you plot out your best summer yet.
Resources:
• FREE 5 tips to switch off from teaching and switch on to your life: https://www.subscribepage.com/switchoffteaching
• Join our friendly Facebook Community: www.facebook.com/groups/teacherswithboundaries
• Find me on Instagram: www.instagram.com/gemmadrinkall_headsphere/
• Facebook: www.facebook.com/GemmaDrinkallHeadSphere
• LinkedIn: www.linkedin.com/in/gemma-drinkall-10a9861a0/
• Twitter: twitter.com/Gemma_Drinkall
• Linktree: linktr.ee/GemmaDrinkall
Welcome to Part 1 of a mini sessions that will help you to make the most of your summer holidays!
The beginning of the summer holidays is both a blessing and a curse. School is finally over and you no longer are expected to work all hours to keep up with the to-do list. However, how do you switch off and box off ideas of school so that you can make the most of your valuable holiday time? If this is a question you are pondering, you are not alone.
What you will learn in this episode:
• How your environment can be used to help you switch off
• The importance of giving yourself permission to box off thoughts of school
• Tips that empower you to box off school and enjoy your summer holiday
Ultimately, there is no one way to box off thoughts of school in the summer holidays. They will inevitably crop up and that’s okay. What is important is how you choose to respond to those thoughts when they crop up.
Resources:
• FREE 5 tips to switch off from teaching and switch on to your life: https://www.subscribepage.com/switchoffteaching
• Join our friendly Facebook Community: www.facebook.com/groups/teacherswithboundaries
• Find me on Instagram: www.instagram.com/gemmadrinkall_headsphere/
• Facebook: www.facebook.com/GemmaDrinkallHeadSphere
• LinkedIn: www.linkedin.com/in/gemma-drinkall-10a9861a0/
• Twitter: twitter.com/Gemma_Drinkall
• Linktree: linktr.ee/GemmaDrinkall
When you train to become a teacher, you become accustomed to the intense workload and hours. Once you qualify, those habits that helped you to survive your teacher training can remain with you although they no longer serve you. You may find yourself overworking, overcompensating and spending all of your time and energy in teaching. It can feel like a never ending treadmill.
What you will learn in this episode:
• How you came to be on the teacher treadmill in the first place
• The risks to you by staying on the teacher treadmill
• How you can find your own pause button
Although teaching is intense, there are ways that you can make changes that will enable you to step off the teacher treadmill and make time for yourself. Boundaries will be your friend here. Step back this week and explore where you may be able to reduce your input without affecting your output.
Resources:
• Join our friendly Facebook Community: www.facebook.com/groups/teacherswithboundaries
• Find me on Instagram: www.instagram.com/gemmadrinkall_headsphere/
• Facebook: www.facebook.com/GemmaDrinkallHeadSphere
• LinkedIn: www.linkedin.com/in/gemma-drinkall-10a9861a0/
• Twitter: twitter.com/Gemma_Drinkall
• Linktree: linktr.ee/GemmaDrinkall
Your gut instinct right now may be telling you to run for the hills at the end of term and forget about school for the summer holidays but actually, the summer holidays are the perfect time to slowly but surely get yourself ready for September. But this episode won’t be telling you how to get your resources and planning in order for the new school term. Instead, you will learn about the processes that you can take that will get you ready for September without sacrificing your much deserved summer holiday.
What you will learn in this episode:
• Why it is important to know how to switch off from school well
• Why the summer holidays is the time to practise new skills for the new school year
• How you can return to school in September feeling refreshed, prepped and confident
To help you to achieve this, I have created a brand new 9 step toolkit called the Start September Smiling Toolkit. Designed to drip feed bitesized chunks of learning to you throughout the summer holidays, it will be your companion to get you switched off, fully rested and then raring to go in September.
Resources:
• Sign up for the Start September Smiling Toolkit here: https://www.subscribepage.com/startseptsmilingtoolkit
• Join our friendly Facebook Community: www.facebook.com/groups/teacherswithboundaries
• Find me on Instagram: www.instagram.com/gemmadrinkall_headsphere/
• Facebook: www.facebook.com/GemmaDrinkallHeadSphere
• LinkedIn: www.linkedin.com/in/gemma-drinkall-10a9861a0/
• Twitter: twitter.com/Gemma_Drinkall
• Linktree: linktr.ee/GemmaDrinkall
Does this sound familiar to you? “You work too much, you should just go on strike” or “You should just do the minimum work and then they’ll have to hire another teacher”. These are good intentioned but unhelpful bits of advice that our friends and family may give to us about teaching! They mean well but ultimately, they don’t get teaching because they themselves are not a teacher.
What you will learn in this episode:
• Why friends and family may give you poor advice
• How you can make use of that advice
• What changes you can make to help you in teaching
Often in teaching, you can feel helpless, like a small cog in the giant wheel of the education sector. Yet, there are incremental changes you can do to make your life in teaching easier. Dedicate some time this week to exploring what ways you can make your life easier and happier.
Resources:
• Join our friendly Facebook Community: www.facebook.com/groups/teacherswithboundaries
• Find me on Instagram: www.instagram.com/gemmadrinkall_headsphere/
• Facebook: www.facebook.com/GemmaDrinkallHeadSphere
• LinkedIn: www.linkedin.com/in/gemma-drinkall-10a9861a0/
• Twitter: twitter.com/Gemma_Drinkall
• Linktree: linktr.ee/GemmaDrinkall
It’s nearly the end of the school year and you are so close to the finishing line! School is getting a little bit quieter but you have a niggly feeling in your gut that you should be using this time to get ready for September. Yet, the school year has taken its toll on you and you feel exhausted. It is tempting to ride out the school year and think about September during the summer holidays. However, by taking steps to prep for September now, you are putting yourself in the best position to enjoy both September and your summer holidays.
What you will learn in this episode:
• Why now is the best time of the school year to prep for September
• The impact prepping for September now can have on you
• How you can make this summer and September your best yet
Why don’t you join my FREE 3 day Start Summer (and September!) Smiling Challenge between Tuesday 12th and Thursday 14th July 2022. It will help you to take steps to be ready for September and empower you to switch off and enjoy your summer holidays too. The link is below.
Resources:
• 3 day challenge: https://www.subscribepage.com/startsummersmiling
• Join our friendly Facebook Community: www.facebook.com/groups/teacherswithboundaries
• Find me on Instagram: www.instagram.com/gemmadrinkall_headsphere/
• Facebook: www.facebook.com/GemmaDrinkallHeadSphere
• LinkedIn: www.linkedin.com/in/gemma-drinkall-10a9861a0/
• Twitter: twitter.com/Gemma_Drinkall
• Linktree: linktr.ee/GemmaDrinkall
Teaching is a great job but it can take over your life, physically, mentally and emotionally. When this happens, you can feel overwhelmed and wrung out. Boundaries are a great way to help you achieve balance in your life where teaching can be a valuable part of your life but not the whole thing.
What you will learn in this episode:
• The different types of boundaries
• Why boundaries are important
• Steps you can take to protect your boundaries
Boundaries are hard because as teachers, we are not taught how to manage them. However, it is crucial that you learn to manage your boundaries if you are after a long and fulfilling career in teaching. This week, notice where your boundaries are being threatened and make an incremental change to protect them.
Resources:
• Join our friendly Facebook Community: www.facebook.com/groups/teacherswithboundaries
• Find me on Instagram: www.instagram.com/gemmadrinkall_headsphere/
• Facebook: www.facebook.com/GemmaDrinkallHeadSphere
• LinkedIn: www.linkedin.com/in/gemma-drinkall-10a9861a0/
• Twitter: twitter.com/Gemma_Drinkall
• Linktree: linktr.ee/GemmaDrinkall
When your mind is whirring with ideas, worries and school-related thoughts, it’s like having your very own snow globe in your head. Often, our minds have already done a full day of school thinking before we even arrive at school. This can leave you feeling overwhelmed, exhausted and stressed.
What you will learn in this episode:
• The impact that your teacher brain is having on your wellbeing
• Tips that will help you to switch off your teacher brain
• How your quality of thinking is your own responsibility
Make time this week to reflect on what is triggering your teacher brain to overthink and explore ways that you can give yourself permission to slow down your thoughts and be more present.
Resources:
• Join our friendly Facebook Community: www.facebook.com/groups/teacherswithboundaries
• One Moment Meditation App https://onemomentcompany.com/app/
• Find me on Instagram: www.instagram.com/gemmadrinkall_headsphere/
• Facebook: www.facebook.com/GemmaDrinkallHeadSphere
• LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/gemma-drinkall/
• Twitter: twitter.com/Gemma_Drinkall
• Linktree: linktr.ee/GemmaDrinkall
According to Ofsted, 98% of teachers enjoy teaching. However, 42% report having a low or medium life satisfaction. Sometimes in teaching, it can feel like an “either, or” situation. You are either engrossed in teaching or, it’s half term and you are more engrossed in your life outside of teaching. There doesn’t seem to be a midway point. However, there is another way. And it comes down to boundaries.
What you will learn in this episode:
• The importance of having clear boundaries
• How to make incremental changes that bring your life back into focus
• The positive impact boundaries can have on your teaching
Make time this week to reflect on where in your life you can make an incremental change that will make a positive difference to your life. Pop it in your diary and commit to giving it a go! Let me know how you get on!
Resources:
• Join our friendly Facebook Community: www.facebook.com/groups/teacherswithboundaries
• Teacher well-being at work in schools and further education providers report, 2019 https://assets.publishing.service.gov.uk/government/uploads/system/uploads/attachment_data/file/936253/Teacher_well-being_report_110719F.pdf
• Find me on Instagram: www.instagram.com/gemmadrinkall_headsphere/
• Facebook: www.facebook.com/GemmaDrinkallHeadSphere
• LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/gemma-drinkall/
• Twitter: twitter.com/Gemma_Drinkall
• Linktree: linktr.ee/GemmaDrinkall
No feels like a taboo word in teaching. It often feels wrong to say no, like we are being disrespectful, selfish or even disruptive. The “yes” culture of teaching can feel toxic and lead to teacher resentment, teacher burnout and the retention crisis that the education sector is currently experiencing.
What you will learn in this episode:
• The power of choice: you can say no
• What may be driving you to say yes when you want to say no
• Ways that you can learn to say no to others
Find small opportunities this week to practise saying no or that give you the opportunity to think about your options before you respond. Saying no is a new muscle to build; it takes time but it will help you to create those clear boundaries so that you can love teaching again.
Resources:
• Join our friendly Facebook Community: www.facebook.com/groups/teacherswithboundaries
• Find me on Instagram: www.instagram.com/gemmadrinkall_headsphere/
• Facebook: www.facebook.com/GemmaDrinkallHeadSphere
• LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/gemma-drinkall/
• Linktree: linktr.ee/GemmaDrinkall
As a teacher, it often feels like the to-do list is queen. It dictates your actions, how you feel about your work and your ability to switch off from teaching guilt free. However, is your to-do list working for you or are you working for it?
What you will learn in this episode:
• The difference between a brain dump and a to-do list
• How to make your to-do list work for you
• The benefits of batching similar tasks
Having a separate brain dump away from your to-do list keeps your head clear, reduces the likelihood of overwhelm and keeps you efficient. Try it out this week and see the difference it can make for you.
Resources:
• Video showing Brain Dump v To-Do List. Key moments: 5:57-6:44 and 9:30-10:15 https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=ZK5VUuxGYr0
• Article by John Hall: The Biggest Culprit Behind Your Lagging Productivity: You https://www.forbes.com/sites/johnhall/2020/05/03/the-biggest-culprit-behind-your-lagging-productivity-you/
• Join our friendly Facebook Community: www.facebook.com/groups/teacherswithboundaries
• Find me on Instagram: www.instagram.com/gemmadrinkall_headsphere/
• Facebook: www.facebook.com/GemmaDrinkallHeadSphere
• LinkedIn: www.linkedin.com/in/gemma-drinkall-10a9861a0/
• Twitter: twitter.com/Gemma_Drinkall
• Linktree: linktr.ee/GemmaDrinkall
The best thing about teaching is that you can make it your own. There are so many ways to teach and many of them involve you working less! This week’s episode is jam-packed with practical tips and advice that will get you achieving more, whilst working less.
What you will learn in this episode:
• How you can reduce your marking and achieve effective feedback
• How you can make your lesson planning work for you
• How you can work smarter, not harder
This week, be brave and try something new. With all new things, it may take a bit of time to implement or train your students into a new habit but it will be worth it in the end to help you work smarter, not harder.
Resources:
• 10 Effective Marking and Feedback Techniques to Try https://www.twinkl.co.uk/blog/10-effective-marking-and-feedback-techniques-to-try
• 5 Minute Lesson Plan https://www.teachertoolkit.co.uk/5minplan/
• Episode 04: What time management strategies are you missing out on?
• Episode 12: How can you reduce the amount of time you spend doing school work?
• Join our friendly Facebook Community: www.facebook.com/groups/teacherswithboundaries
• Find me on Instagram: www.instagram.com/gemmadrinkall_headsphere/
• Facebook: www.facebook.com/GemmaDrinkallHeadSphere
• LinkedIn: www.linkedin.com/in/gemma-drinkall-10a9861a0/
• Twitter: twitter.com/Gemma_Drinkall
• Linktree: linktr.ee/GemmaDrinkall
Teacher overwhelm is that feeling you have when you cannot take any more on. You feel like a saturated sponge, unable to take in more information, make decisions or even walk away. It’s a common feature of teaching and you are not alone in how you may feel. However, there is another way.
What you will learn in this episode:
• What decision fatigue is
• Things to do when you feel overwhelmed
• Things to avoid when you feel overwhelmed
This week, take time to notice what may be triggering teacher overwhelm for you, what notifications you may receive from your body and how may it be impacting your mood.
Resources:
• Free ‘6 Tips to Overcome Overwhelm' video and workbook https://www.subscribepage.com/overcome-teacher-overwhelm
• Join our friendly Facebook Community: www.facebook.com/groups/teacherswithboundaries
• Find me on Instagram: www.instagram.com/gemmadrinkall_headsphere/
• Facebook: www.facebook.com/GemmaDrinkallHeadSphere
• LinkedIn: www.linkedin.com/in/gemma-drinkall-10a9861a0/
• Twitter: twitter.com/Gemma_Drinkall
• Linktree: linktr.ee/GemmaDrinkall
When you are a teacher, it often feels like the to-do list expands to fit the time you have available. Unfortunately, that time is usually your free time! This episode is all about how you as a teacher can create more time (and energy!) for yourself using Parkinson’s Law.
What you will learn in this episode:
• What Parkinson’s Law is
• How you can use time blocking to improve your efficiency
• How you can use Parkinson’s Law to create time for yourself
This week, give time blocking a go. Schedule in a break out block for yourself as well as time blocks to get your school work. Let me know how you get on!
Resources:
• Join our friendly Facebook Community: www.facebook.com/groups/teacherswithboundaries
• Find me on Instagram: www.instagram.com/gemmadrinkall_headsphere/
• Facebook: www.facebook.com/GemmaDrinkallHeadSphere
• LinkedIn: www.linkedin.com/in/gemma-drinkall-10a9861a0/
• Twitter: twitter.com/Gemma_Drinkall
• Linktree: linktr.ee/GemmaDrinkall
You may be aware of the safety guidance that says in a plane crash, you need to put your oxygen mask on first. The same applies in teaching. It is perfectly professional to be selfish and put your needs first. By doing so, you are being an even more awesome teacher for your students and team.
What you will learn in this episode:
• Ways that you can be professionally selfish
• The benefits of filling your cup first
• Why it is your responsibility to protect your teacher wellbeing
Unfortunately, no one will do this for you. You are the one to take action. Take time out this week to explore incremental changes that you could make to begin putting your oxygen mask on first.
Resources:
• Join our friendly Facebook Community: www.facebook.com/groups/teacherswithboundaries
• Find me on Instagram: www.instagram.com/gemmadrinkall_headsphere/
• Facebook: www.facebook.com/GemmaDrinkallHeadSphere
• LinkedIn: www.linkedin.com/in/gemma-drinkall-10a9861a0/
• Twitter: twitter.com/Gemma_Drinkall
• Linktree: linktr.ee/GemmaDrinkall
When you are a teacher, you may be a glutton for perfectionism. High expectations of yourself in teaching comes from a desire to be, have and do the best for our students. It’s an honourable cause but it may not be benefitting you and your students as much as you might think.
What you will learn in this episode:
• The different ways perfectionism can manifest itself in teaching
• How perfectionism can get in the way of your enjoyment of teaching
• How reducing your work input may not negatively impact the outcome of your work
Take time out this week to reflect on what may be the impact of reducing by 10% the standards you set for yourself. You may be surprised by how much more time and energy you gain for little cost.
Resources:
• Join our friendly Facebook Community: www.facebook.com/groups/teacherswithboundaries
• Find me on Instagram: www.instagram.com/gemmadrinkall_headsphere/
• Facebook: www.facebook.com/GemmaDrinkallHeadSphere
• LinkedIn: www.linkedin.com/in/gemma-drinkall-10a9861a0/
• Twitter: twitter.com/Gemma_Drinkall
• Linktree: linktr.ee/GemmaDrinkall
• Start Now. Get Perfect Later by Rob Moore
For many teachers, half term is what they live for. For one or two weeks, you are free to go to the toilet when you wish, make a cuppa and drink it hot and catch up on the school workload. However, treating half term break as an extended free period may impact your ability to begin the new term fully rested and restored.
What you will learn in this episode:
• Different ways you can spend your half term break.
• How long term stress is impacting your half term break.
• Ways that you can make the most out of your break.
Half term is an opportunity to observe your teacher boundaries at their clearest. It’s also an opportunity to establish clear boundaries for the new term too. Take time out this week to reflect on your school term and how you want the next term to go.
Resources:
• Join our friendly Facebook Community: www.facebook.com/groups/teacherswithboundaries
• Find me on Instagram: www.instagram.com/gemmadrinkall_headsphere/
• Facebook: www.facebook.com/GemmaDrinkallHeadSphere
• LinkedIn: www.linkedin.com/in/gemma-drinkall-10a9861a0/
• Twitter: twitter.com/Gemma_Drinkall
• Linktree: linktr.ee/GemmaDrinkall
It may feel like the education sector is broken. It’s poorly funded, teacher retention is at an all-time low and students often disrespect you. It can feel like an uphill battle with little reward at the end. If that’s the case, what control do you possibly have? Despite the challenges, there are steps that you can take.
What you will learn in this episode:
• The impact that the state of the education sector may have on you.
• What responsibility you may have for your own wellbeing.
• How a change of perspective can transform your experiences.
How we look at situations impacts how we feel. Take time out this week to consider which lenses you are wearing at school and how a different perspective may change how you feel.
Resources:
• Join our friendly Facebook Community: www.facebook.com/groups/teacherswithboundaries
• Find me on Instagram: www.instagram.com/gemmadrinkall_headsphere/
• Facebook: www.facebook.com/GemmaDrinkallHeadSphere
• LinkedIn: www.linkedin.com/in/gemma-drinkall-10a9861a0/
• Twitter: twitter.com/Gemma_Drinkall
• Linktree: linktr.ee/GemmaDrinkall
Sometimes, you just want to quit teaching. The workload is too much. The students don’t listen to you. You don’t feel appreciated. This stops you enjoying being in the classroom and can drain you of the will to carry on. You’re not alone. 1 in 6 teachers leave within their first year; 1 in 3 leave within five years of qualifying. What you will learn in this episode:
• How to discover if it may be time for you to leave teaching.
• Why it is ok to leave teaching.
• Small changes you can make that will help you to enjoy teaching again.
When you refocus your mind on the positives and take time out for yourself, you may rediscover your love for teaching. Take time out this week to reflect on what you love about teaching and what value it is bringing to your life. After all, you only live once.
Resources:
• Join our friendly Facebook Community: www.facebook.com/groups/teacherswithboundaries
• Find me on Instagram: www.instagram.com/gemmadrinkall_headsphere/
Facebook: www.facebook.com/GemmaDrinkallHeadSphere
• LinkedIn: www.linkedin.com/in/gemma-drinkall-10a9861a0/
• Twitter: twitter.com/Gemma_Drinkall
• Linktree: linktr.ee/GemmaDrinkall
Stress among teachers is high. It can sometimes feel like stress is such an inherent part of being a teacher that if you were to google image ‘stressed out teacher’ you may find yourself in the results. In today’s episode, I shall be discussing the impact stress can have on your health and teaching. What you will learn in this episode:
· What long term stress is
· How it can impact you
· What changes you can make to prevent long term stress It can be challenging to break the mould and work to reduce teacher stress.
Take some time out this week to reflect on your pinch points, what may spike your stress levels and what will help to relieve your teacher stress.
Resources:
· Join our friendly Facebook Community: www.facebook.com/groups/teacherswithboundaries
· Find me on Instagram: www.instagram.com/gemmadrinkall_headsphere/
· Facebook: www.facebook.com/GemmaDrinkallHeadSphere
· LinkedIn: www.linkedin.com/in/gemma-drinkall-10a9861a0/
· Twitter: twitter.com/Gemma_Drinkall
· Linktree: linktr.ee/GemmaDrinkall
· Education Support Wellbeing Index 2021 https://www.educationsupport.org.uk/resources/for-organisations/research/teacher-wellbeing-index/
Creating work life harmony as a teacher can feel incredibly challenging, especially when your boundaries have been corroded. Is it possible to achieve work life blending? Yes but it may not look like your generic work life balance but instead looks more like "intentional imbalance". What you will learn in this episode: · Why the idea of ‘work-life balance’ is a myth
· Why striving for ‘intentional imbalance’ may work better for you
· How you can be intentional with how you choose to manage your time and energy
Take time out this week to assess what areas of your life are important to you. How can you ‘turn the volume up’ on these areas? Which areas may you need to ‘turn down’?
Resources:
· Join our friendly Facebook Community: www.facebook.com/groups/teacherswithboundaries
· Find me on Instagram: www.instagram.com/gemmadrinkall_headsphere/
· Facebook: www.facebook.com/GemmaDrinkallHeadSphere
· LinkedIn: www.linkedin.com/in/gemma-drinkall-10a9861a0/
· Twitter: twitter.com/Gemma_Drinkall
· Linktree: linktr.ee/GemmaDrinkall
· The 12 Week Year by Brian P. Moran and Michael Lennington
When you’re a teacher, one of the most valuable commodities you have that you wish you had more of is time. You feel like you never have enough time. Yet, if you had more time, you’d be able to not only get everything done but also enjoy life outside of the classroom as well. Time is finite yet, it is possible to learn how to make better use of it. What you will learn in this episode:
Ways that you may be losing time
How you may get back some of that time
Time management techniques
The importance and benefits of time management for teachers cannot be underestimated. Take time out this week to plan and schedule your tasks so that you can feel in control of your time again.
Resources:
Join our friendly Facebook Community: www.facebook.com/groups/teacherswithboundaries
Find me on Instagram: www.instagram.com/gemmadrinkall_headsphere/
Facebook: www.facebook.com/GemmaDrinkallHeadSphere
LinkedIn: www.linkedin.com/in/gemma-drinkall-10a9861a0/
Twitter: twitter.com/Gemma_Drinkall
Linktree: linktr.ee/GemmaDrinkall
The 7 Habits of Highly Effectively People by Stephen Covey
Pomodoro Technique Timer: www.focustodo.cn/
As a teacher, you feel like you are ‘on’ all the time. Teacher emails are one way that you feel you can never switch off. You may always be contactable and so you are always being a teacher. This stops you enjoying your life outside of teaching, something you need in order to both enjoy teaching and reduce the stress of it. What you will learn in this episode: • The negative impact that being switched ‘on’ all the time can have.
• Ways that will reduce your contactability.
• How reducing your contactability will reduce your stress now.
When you reduce your time on your emails, you’ll discover more free time, energy and focus. Take time out this week to review your notification settings so that you can feel in control of your focus again.
Resources:
• Join our friendly Facebook Community: www.facebook.com/groups/teacherswithboundaries
• Find me on Instagram: www.instagram.com/gemmadrinkall_headsphere/
• Facebook: www.facebook.com/GemmaDrinkallHeadSphere
• LinkedIn: www.linkedin.com/in/gemma-drinkall-10a9861a0/
• Twitter: twitter.com/Gemma_Drinkall
• Linktree: linktr.ee/GemmaDrinkall
As a teacher, it can be really difficult to learn boundaries that protect your time, energy and focus. Non-negotiables are the first step to setting boundaries. By imagining yourself as a battery, you can get a clear idea of the people, activities and events that drain you, and the ones that rejuvenate you. These are your non-negotiables and will help you to protect your teacher wellbeing and thrive in teaching.
What you will learn in this episode:
What non-negotiables are
How little actions can make a big difference to your wellbeing
How to let teaching take a backseat
The positive impact non-negotiables can have on your teaching
You will want to take some time to make a list of what brings you joy and what may drain you of energy. Reflect on what small changes you can make to reduce the drain and increase the joy. When you do non-negotiables the right way, you get to enjoy both teaching and your life beyond the classroom too.
Resources:
Join our friendly Facebook Community: www.facebook.com/groups/teacherswithboundaries
Find me on Instagram: www.instagram.com/gemmadrinkall_headsphere/
Facebook: www.facebook.com/GemmaDrinkallHeadSphere
LinkedIn: www.linkedin.com/in/gemma-drinkall-10a9861a0/
Twitter: twitter.com/Gemma_Drinkall
Linktree: linktr.ee/GemmaDrinkall
As a teacher, it can be really difficult to learn boundaries that protect your time, energy and focus. Non-negotiables are the first step to setting boundaries. By imagining yourself as a battery, you can get a clear idea of the people, activities and events that drain you, and the ones that rejuvenate you. These are your non-negotiables and will help you to protect your teacher wellbeing and thrive in teaching.
What you will learn in this episode:
What non-negotiables are
How little actions can make a big difference to your wellbeing
How to let teaching take a backseat
The positive impact non-negotiables can have on your teaching
You will want to take some time to make a list of what brings you joy and what may drain you of energy. Reflect on what small changes you can make to reduce the drain and increase the joy. When you do non-negotiables the right way, you get to enjoy both teaching and your life beyond the classroom too.
Resources:
Join our friendly Facebook Community: www.facebook.com/groups/teacherswithboundaries
Find me on Instagram: www.instagram.com/gemmadrinkall_headsphere/
Facebook: www.facebook.com/GemmaDrinkallHeadSphere
LinkedIn: www.linkedin.com/in/gemma-drinkall-10a9861a0/
Twitter: twitter.com/Gemma_Drinkall
Linktree: linktr.ee/GemmaDrinkall
If you are a teacher in search of a better work-life balance, if you are tired of working all the time and having no time for yourself, your family, friends or your hobbies, then this is the podcast for you. I'm Gemma Drinkall, an educational wellbeing coach, former secondary school middle leader and host of the podcast. In this podcast, I'll be sharing insights into how you can create clear boundaries that put you back in the driving seat of your life and help you to love teaching again. I'll also be giving hints and tips that will help you to reduce feelings of overwhelm and how to avoid teacher burnout. What you'll learn on the Teachers with Boundaries Podcast:
· How to switch off your teacher brain.
· How to reduce feelings of overwhelm and guilt.
· How you can plan your time more effectively.
· What steps you can take to increase your time, energy and happiness.
Join me on this amazing journey as I help you to create clear boundaries so that you can thrive in teaching, and not just survive.
Resources:
· Join our friendly Facebook Community: www.facebook.com/groups/teacherswithboundaries
· Find me on Instagram: www.instagram.com/gemmadrinkall_headsphere/
· Facebook: www.facebook.com/GemmaDrinkallHeadSphere
· LinkedIn: www.linkedin.com/in/gemma-drinkall-10a9861a0/
· Twitter: twitter.com/Gemma_Drinkall
· Linktree: linktr.ee/GemmaDrinkall