Thrive in ELT: Recent Episodes
ELT Resource Room
Are you ready to take the next step toward thriving in English language teaching? If you're an ESL/EFL instructor of adults, this show will help you do just that. Join Heather Johnston, an ESL instructor and administrator with 17 years of experience, as she walks with you on your ELT journey. Heather discusses the everyday issues related to planning, instruction, and reflection while also providing opportunities for you to grow as a professional. Go from feeling overwhelmed and frustrated to reinvigorated and encouraged so you can thrive on your journey!
Want a more organized teaching life without overcomplicating things?
Spoiler: The best tools are often the simplest.
In this episode, I'm sharing four tools that have become mainstays in my ELT life. They're simple, they work, and some I've been using for over a decade.
- A tiered file sorter for class materials
- A desk caddy for supplies
- Google Calendar for time-sensitive tasks
- Trello for organizing digital resources
The common thread: They keep me organized so I can focus on teaching.
Are any of these on your essential tools list too?
For full show notes of this episode, visit https://www.eltresourceroom.com/podcast/80-4-tools-i-continue-using-because-they-keep-me-organized
Stay up to date with the podcast and more:
Sign up for my newsletter to get more organizational tips like in today's episode that will help you build the thriving ELT life you're longing for >> https://eltresourceroom.ck.page/a29bcd1017
Connect with Heather:
Website
Every English language teacher has something worth sharing. Even you!
If you've ever thought your teaching insights weren't "publishable" (Yep, thought it myself.), the newest Thrive in ELT podcast episode will quickly change your mind.
Michele C. Guerrini, the Reviews Editor for TESOL SPAIN, walks you through the process involved in writing a journal review.
In this conversation, we explore:
▪️What types of ideas are worth sharing (Hint: There are more than you think!)
▪️ How to write your journal review
▪️ Why sharing your work benefits you as much as your peers
▪️ Practical tips for making time to write (even when you're busy)
Ready to see how you can contribute to the ELT community and grow professionally? Listen in and turn your ideas into action.
For full show notes of this episode, visit https://www.eltresourceroom.com/podcast/79-sharing-ideas-in-english-language-teaching-writing-journal-reviews
Connect with Michele:
Send Michele an email, proposing a review for TESOL SPAIN:
tesolspainreviews@gmail.com
Take a look at previous reviews in TESOL SPAIN:
https://www.tesol-spain.org/en/news/8/reviews.html (Choose a date and then click the orange Read the reviews here link underneath the image to access the issue.)
Stay up to date with the podcast and more:
Sign up for my newsletter to get organizational tips that will help you build the thriving ELT life you're longing for >> https://eltresourceroom.ck.page/a29bcd1017
Connect with Heather:
Website
Ever been inspired by a teacher who taught 100 years ago?
I have to say that it's a new one for me!
In this episode I'm reviewing "The Thread That Runs So True" by Jesse Stuart. Surprisingly, this 1949 autobiography of a Kentucky mountain school teacher impacted me more than I expected.
What struck me most:
- Stuart's experiences are extremely relatable. (Maybe you haven't been able to sleep at night either because you're trying to figure out how to help your beginner students?!)
- He valued people – his students, his teachers, the community in which he taught, and himself.
- He wanted his students to learn but not just facts and figures. Learning also included responsibility, respect, and relationship.
Despite the century between us, his struggles and joys as an educator feel very present.
And his story reminded me why I teach — not just to cover pronunciation rules and vocabulary but to build confidence, create meaningful connections, and help students express their true selves.
My biggest takeaway? I'm on the right path. And after 20+ years of teaching, that validation from across a century means a lot.
Listen in to hear about Stuart's leadership qualities, his surprising teaching philosophy, and why this book belongs on every English language teacher's reading list.
For full show notes of this episode, visit https://www.eltresourceroom.com/podcast/78-learning-from-a-teacher-who-taught-100-years-ago
Stay up to date with the podcast and more:
Sign up for my newsletter to get organizational tips that will help you build the thriving ELT life you're longing for >> https://eltresourceroom.ck.page/a29bcd1017
Connect with Heather:
Website
Ever feel like you're constantly jumping from task to task? Planning one class…
grading a few papers…
checking email…
then back to planning another class?
Thank goodness there's a better way!
Batching your work (grouping similar tasks together) helps you get and stay focused and get more done with less stress.
In this episode, I share how I batch three key areas of my teaching life: lesson planning, grading, and administrative tasks. You'll hear what works for me, like my Wednesday lesson planning routine, and get practical ideas for finding your own batching system.
If your schedule feels chaotic or you're tired of feeling scattered, this episode will help you think about how to get more done without adding to your workload.
Ready to discover how batching can make life easier for your ELT life?
For full show notes of this episode, visit https://www.eltresourceroom.com/podcast/77-batching-as-a-teacher-is-it-even-possible
Stay up to date with the podcast and more:
Sign up for my newsletter to get more organizational tips like in today's episode that will help you build the thriving ELT life you're longing for >> https://eltresourceroom.ck.page/a29bcd1017
Connect with Heather:
Website
Imagine that you're the testing coordinator at your school. It's the day before exams, and you've done everything on your checklist... except order the actual tests.
No imagination needed here. This is real life for me!
What happened next came as a surprise though.
After years of working on being kinder to myself, I finally realized something in my head and my heart.
It wasn't actually my fault.
Yes, I was the one responsible, but it was the way the system was set up that was the problem.
If you've ever beaten yourself up over a mistake of any size in your English language teaching life, then this episode is for you.
Listen in to learn why system failures aren't personal failures and get inspired for making your own system fixes.
For full show notes of this episode, visit https://www.eltresourceroom.com/podcast/76-what-it-really-means-when-your-system-fails
Develop your own Personalized PD Plan: (Available for purchase through Oct. 9. 2025)
Tired of setting your sights on professional development and not following through? Create a personalized PD plan with accountability and support to help you focus your efforts and aspirations on the right-for-you opportunities. Sign up to schedule your two 1:1 coaching sessions (Oct. 13-Nov. 22, 2025) >> https://eltresourceroom.kit.com/products/personal-pd-plan
Stay up to date with the podcast and more:
Sign up for my newsletter to get more organizational tips like in today’s episode that will help you build the thriving ELT life you’re longing for >> https://eltresourceroom.ck.page/a29bcd1017
Connect with Heather:
Website
Who doesn’t love a good checklist?!
Well, it depends.
Generally, I love them. But sometimes, they create more problems than not. (I talk about one experience I’ve had with that!)
The key is to use them wisely, which means they’re better when set up intentionally and sometimes when they’re not used at all.
Listen in for four things I’ve learned from using checklists as an English language teacher. I hope that what you hear will inspire, reassure, or encourage you.
For full show notes of this episode, visit https://www.eltresourceroom.com/podcast/75-what-ive-learned-from-using-checklists
Sign up for the 3 Steps to Building Your Thriving ELT Life workshop:
It’s happening live on Saturday, September 27, 2025. Hope to see you there!
https://www.eltresourceroom.com/3-steps
Stay up to date with the podcast and more:
Sign up for my newsletter to get more organizational tips like in today’s episode that will help you live the thriving ELT life you’re longing for >> https://eltresourceroom.ck.page/a29bcd1017
Connect with Heather:
Website
Wish your work-life balance was a bit more… balanced?
Forgetting my sister’s birthday was the wake-up call that started a gradual process of finding the work-life balance I needed to thrive as an ESL teacher.
In the final episode of this season, I talk about the two key elements that moved me forward and can help make that wish a reality for you, too.
For full show notes of this episode, visit https://www.eltresourceroom.com/podcast/74-finding-better-work-life-balance
Stay in touch!
Sign up for my newsletter, Your Organized ELT Life. I’ll share tips, resources, and insights to help you manage your workload so that you have more time for yourself. >> https://eltresourceroom.ck.page/a29bcd1017
Connect with me:
Website
Don’t you love it when you find out that you’re not the only one?
That’s the way I felt when I first had a chat with Ana Jereb a few months back. I felt it again when we recorded this latest episode.
I typically go solo on the show, but sometimes I meet someone who impacts me and my ELT life so much that I want you to know this person too.
In this episode, you'll learn about:
- how Ana experienced burnout as an English language teacher and then turned things around
- why she believes that saying students come first isn’t possible
- the importance of teachers thinking of themselves as people first and foremost
If I were a betting person, I’d bet that you’ll see yourself somewhere in her story too.
For full show notes of this episode, visit https://www.eltresourceroom.com/podcast/73-teachers-are-people-first-finding-balance-in-language-education
Connect with Ana:
Website
Stay up to date with the podcast and more:
Subscribe to my monthly newsletter for updates on the podcast and other good stuff like organizational tips that you can apply straightaway. >> https://eltresourceroom.ck.page/a29bcd1017
Connect with Heather:
Website
Do you find it hard to actually apply English language teaching theory to your teaching?
Often, research articles can feel distant, like the ideas are for a completely different world because you don’t see how they apply to your teaching situation.
At the same time, you recognize that academic research in English language teaching is important to know about and understand – for yourself and your students.
That’s why I’ve reviewed the book, Teaching English to Second Language Learners in Academic Contexts: Reading, Writing, Listening, and Speaking, for you.
It’s definitely a gold mine if you teach academic English, but it’s also worth a read even if you’re not. The authors themselves mention that this book can benefit teachers who are:
◼ looking to give new energy to their teaching,
◼ just starting out, and
◼ pre-service teachers.
For full show notes of this episode, visit https://www.eltresourceroom.com/podcast/72-four-skills-one-book-bridging-theory-and-practice
Subscribe to my monthly newsletter:
Get more helpful resources in addition to organizational tips and special offers that will help you live a calmer, more sustainable ELT life. >> https://eltresourceroom.ck.page/a29bcd1017
Resources Mentioned in the Episode:
Newton, J. M., Ferris, D. R., Goh, C. C. M., Grabe, W., Stoller, F. L, & Vandergrift, L. (2018) Teaching English to second language learners in academic contexts: Reading, writing, listening, and speaking. Routledge.
Metacognitive Awareness of Reading Strategies Inventory (MARSI)
Connect with Heather:
Website
Does this ever happen to you?
You’re listening to music or cooking dinner and all of a sudden you get an idea for one of your classes.
It’s very common for us English language teachers to think about work outside of work. I would even bet that some of our most creative thoughts come from these times!
But as exciting and helpful as it can be, sometimes the way work presents itself in our personal time can feel like a burden, maybe even an intrusion.
Which is why switching off from work is so important.
Tune in to learn five ways you can truly switch off from work.
For full show notes of this episode, visit https://www.eltresourceroom.com/podcast/71-5-ways-to-truly-switch-off-from-work
Resources:
Ready to stop putting off the professional development that you really want or need? Get rid of the frustration and guilt by creating a personal PD plan that will help you get the right things done at the right time. Grab your step-by-step PDF guide and five linked Google Docs, and lock in your two 1:1 sessions with me before March 27, 2025 >> https://eltresourceroom.ck.page/products/personal-pd-plan.
Sign up for my newsletter to get more organizational tips like in today’s episode that will help you live a calmer, more sustainable ELT life >> https://eltresourceroom.ck.page/a29bcd1017
Connect with Heather:
Website
Have you ever thought to yourself that there has to be a better way?
Whether it’s every week or every day, it can feel like there’s always something to be done.
What often follows? The feeling that there’s always something that could be done better.
The reality of your English language teaching life is likely this: There will always be a lesson to plan, a course to revise, or an assignment to review. But that reality doesn’t have to mean long hours or striving toward perfection.
What I finally decided to say years ago was this: Good enough is enough.
This doesn’t mean that you stop doing your best for you students. Instead, it means that you focus on the right things, the better things, at the right time.
Join me in this episode to find out how you can make good enough enough in your ELT life.
For full show notes of this episode, visit https://www.eltresourceroom.com/podcast/70-when-good-enough-is-enough-in-english-language-teaching
Stay up to date with the podcast and more:
Sign up for my monthly newsletter to get tips like in today’s episode that will help you live a calmer, more sustainable ELT life >> https://eltresourceroom.ck.page/a29bcd1017
Connect with Heather:
Website
Do you want to thrive in your English language teaching life?
Learn about the Thrive in ELT podcast and how the practical episodes can help you reduce stress and find more time to breathe by getting organized.
Connect with your host, Heather Johnston:
Website
Have you ever started a system and then gotten off track?
(My hand is up!)
We all need a restart every now and again, don’t we?
Some are easy, like the ones that tend to come naturally at the beginning of a new term. But others? They can feel like a disruption, a hassle, or even a disappointment.
But here are three facts about organizational systems:
- It’s OK if you put a system in place and it doesn’t work out like you’d hoped.
- When you discover that a particular system or a part of a system doesn’t work, that can be a really good thing.
- When you get off track, it doesn’t mean that you’re an unorganized person or that you can’t handle follow-through. It means that your system needs attention.
Not so sure about all of this?
Then you'll want to check out this episode where I share four steps for getting your organizational systems back on track.
Show Notes:
For full show notes of this episode, visit https://www.eltresourceroom.com/podcast/69-four-steps-to-get-your-organizational-systems-back-on-track
Stay up to date with the podcast and more:
Sign up for my newsletter to get more organizational tips like in today’s episode that will help you live a calmer, more sustainable ELT life >> https://eltresourceroom.ck.page/a29bcd1017
Connect with Heather:
Website
Do you find it a struggle to help your students learn vocabulary?
It’s been a challenge of mine for most of my English language teaching career.
But last semester I discovered a resource that’s helping me change that – all thanks to James Thomas.
VersaText is a free online vocabulary tool that helps language teachers like you and me create text-specific materials and help our students discover new ways of thinking about words.
Through the use of a fun yet intentional word cloud, concordance, and word profiler, I’m learning how to systematically help my students learn better. And I have to say, it feels really good.
So if vocabulary is one of your topics of interest, or a need like me, listen in to hear James share his knowledge and wisdom about learning and teaching words.
My favorite quote from the episode? “I always think it's like looking at a text through a kaleidoscope.” I’d never thought about a word cloud in this way, but I can see it! Maybe you can too?
For full show notes of this episode, visit https://www.eltresourceroom.com/podcast/68-teaching-vocabulary-and-more-through-text
Resources Mentioned in the Episode:
- VersaText - The free, online vocabulary tool that James has developed
- Teaching English through Text - VersaText course for English language teachers (25% discount for the first 50 signups using the coupon code versatext25)
- Versatile Publisher - James’ website
- Connect with James on LinkedIn or Facebook
Stay up to date with the podcast and more:
Sign up for my monthly newsletter for more helpful content, including recommended resources like in today's episode, to help you live a calmer, more sustainable ELT life >> https://eltresourceroom.ck.page/a29bcd1017
Connect with Heather:
Website
What words are in your job description?
I’m guessing “teaching,” but what else?
It’s not uncommon for English language teachers to take on multiple roles, voluntary or otherwise.
Other words I’ve seen in ELT job descriptions are ones like:
- advising
- chairing
- coordinating
- grading
- leading
We could probably get a list that includes every letter from A to Z!
While balancing multiple roles can be quite enjoyable, it can be a struggle to keep on top of everything. And that struggle can be overwhelming at times because of the responsibilities that come with them.
Thankfully, there are things you do so you can spend more time enjoying and less time overwhelmed.
In this episode, get six tips to help you make the juggling act a little easier.
Show Notes:
For full show notes of this episode, visit https://www.eltresourceroom.com/podcast/67-how-to-juggle-multiple-elt-roles-with-ease
Resources:
Sign up for the Personal PD Plan waitlist >> https://eltresourceroom.ck.page/f30fbb252b, and I’ll email you when the guide is available again next semester.
Join my monthly newsletter for updates on future programs such as the Personal PD Plan guide plus other good stuff like organizational tips that you can apply straightaway and recommended resources that I use myself >> https://eltresourceroom.ck.page/a29bcd1017
Connect with Heather:
Website
What is the ratio of work to rest in your English language teaching life right now?
50:50? 60:40? 90:10?
It takes effort, persistence, and likely a bit of trial and error, to get it where you want it to be. It won’t always stay consistent, but there are certainly things you can do to find a better balance that’s right for you.
I surprised myself early this year when the professional development plan I created wasn’t very (what I would have called) “professional.” It had nothing to do with learning a new skill, helping my students, becoming a better teacher, or any other activity normally associated with PD.
Or so I thought.
In this episode of the podcast I share all about the surprising effect Alex Soojung-Kim Pang’s book “Rest: Why You Get More Done When You Work Less” has had on my ELT life.
By the end of the episode, my hope is that you’re inspired and encouraged to:
- evaluate the role of rest in your ELT life and
- not feel guilty for wanting, needing, and making space for rest in your life.
Show Notes:
For full show notes of this episode, visit https://www.eltresourceroom.com/podcast/66-rest-english-language-teachers-practical-application
Get your Personal PD Plan Guide:
Developing a personal PD plan doesn’t have to be complicated. It just needs to be right for you.
With:
- 1 PDF guide,
- 5 Google Doc templates, and
- 2 one-on-one sessions (between October 9 and November 26, 2024),
you can do just that.
But you only have access to this special offer through October 17, 2024. So go to eltresourceroom.com/resources to get your guide and book your sessions before it’s too late!
Connect with Heather:
Website
Do you ever find yourself saying this as an English language teacher?
“I’ll (insert action) when things slow down.”
Whether it’s starting back to exercising, catching up with a friend, or taking time to read a few pages of a good book, it seems like things never actually slow down.
The truth of the matter is that it rarely just happens. So you have to make it.
How?
By intentionally resting.
Before reading Alex Soojung-Kim Pang’s book “Rest: Why You Get More Done When You Work Less,” I had no idea what that even looked like beyond sleeping and taking a (long-overdue) vacation. (Those both count, but they aren’t even the tip of the iceberg of what constitutes rest.)
Maybe you’d like things to slow down more in your ELT life? A bit better work-life balance? The feeling of time to breathe throughout your work day?
In this episode I share these highlights of Pang’s book:
- what “rest” really means,
- how it looks, and
- why you should read his book too.
Show Notes:
For full show notes of this episode, visit https://www.eltresourceroom.com/podcast/65-rest-english-language-teachers-book-review
Sign Up!
Stay up to date with this podcast, get organizational tips that you can apply straightaway, and check out recommended resources by signing up for my monthly newsletter >> https://eltresourceroom.ck.page/a29bcd1017
Connect with Heather:
Website
What’s new with you?
A new semester often brings about a lot of “new,” like:
- new students
- a new schedule
- new procedures
- new opportunities
It also means a new season of the Thrive in ELT podcast, where I’ll be sharing more tips and strategies for staying on top of your teaching game.
Whether you’ve taught a course one time or 12, this newest episode will have you thinking about how to stay focused, perform the occasional check-in, make adjustments when needed, and more.
For full show notes of this episode, visit https://www.eltresourceroom.com/podcast/64-5-reasons-why-you-your-students-need-course-roadmap
Resources:
Wouldn’t it be nice to be prepared for life’s what-if moments now so that you can skip the stress later? Well, you can be prepared, even for the unexpected. Get the resources you need to create a teaching contingency plan here >> https://eltresourceroom.ck.page/products/teaching-contingency-plan
Connect with Heather:
Website
A new academic year is on its way, and so is a new season of the Thrive in ELT podcast.
Listen to this short update episode to find out:
- what's coming next at the Thrive in ELT podcast and
- how you can set yourself up for a calmer, more sustainable semester.
Resources:
Book your Power Hour with Heather and prepare your Plan B for this academic year by going to: https://www.eltresourceroom.com/resources
Connect with Heather:
Website
Do you ever tell yourself that you’ll “get to that later” because “now isn’t a good time”?
Certainly there are times when it's not. But when it really may be, is your reason for waiting because…
- it’s all just too overwhelming?
- you’re avoiding doing the thing?
- it’s more comfortable to think instead of do?
- you’re worried that your effort will result in a failed attempt?
The problem with waiting sometimes, though, is that you experience missed opportunities, prolonged stress, or even added frustration.
When it comes to your ELT life, I’m guessing your list of wants and needs is easy to make but harder to address. Amidst your everyday life of planning, teaching, grading, and everything in between, it’s easier to say, “I’ll get to that later.”
Yet, what if instead of putting off everything, you tackled just one thing?
Select. Focus. Do. Repeat.
What can help you follow this process? Developing organizational systems that are right for you.
If you’re on the fence about whether or not today is your right time, listen in for some insight and inspiration.
Show Notes:
For full show notes of this episode, visit https://www.eltresourceroom.com/podcast/63-are-you-waiting-for-the-right-time-to-get-organized
Resources:
Get rid of the frustration and guilt. Create a personal PD plan that will help you work towards your professional goals, all at the right time for you. Get the step-by-step template here >> https://eltresourceroom.ck.page/products/personal-pd-plan
Do you wish you had less stress and overwhelm in your ELT life? Download your free resource “Reduce Your ELT Stress” and choose from 10 practical tips to help you on your organizational journey >> https://reducestress.eltresourceroom.com
Connect with Heather:
Website
Want to get organized but aren’t sure where to start? Starting is almost always the hard part. You ask yourself questions like:
- What’s it going to be like?
- Am I really capable of doing this?
- Is it even going to work?
- What if I fail?
But you know what? Without trying, you’re never going to move beyond the frustration.
Trying. That’s one of the five stages of developing an organizational system that is:
- purposeful,
- right for you, and
- a relief giver.
Learn about this and the four other stages in the latest Thrive in ELT podcast episode.
Show Notes:
For full show notes of this episode, visit https://www.eltresourceroom.com/podcast/62-5-stages-of-developing-an-organizational-system
Resources:
Do you wish you had less stress and overwhelm in your ELT life? Download your free resource “Reduce Your ELT Stress” and start seeing a change today >> https://reducestress.eltresourceroom.com
Make your professional development personal. Get the template to help >> https://eltresourceroom.ck.page/products/personal-pd-plan
Be prepared for when the unexpected happens in your ELT life. Get the teaching contingency plan guide >> https://eltresourceroom.ck.page/products/teaching-contingency-plan
Connect with Heather:
Website
Do you approach your recurring tasks randomly or systematically?
We all have them. Those things that have to get done – over and over again.
From the day-to-day to the occasional, from the simple to the complex. They’re a part of what you do as an EAP/ESL teacher.
So… if you have to do them anyway, why not make things a little easier for yourself?
One way to do this is by establishing routines.
If thinking less, reducing your stress, and staying on track in your ELT life sounds like a good plan, then this episode is for you.
(Don’t worry. It doesn’t mean that your life will become boring. 😉)
Do you wish you had less stress and overwhelm in your ELT life? Download your free resource “Reduce Your ELT Stress” and start seeing a change today >> https://reducestress.eltresourceroom.com
For full show notes of this episode, visit https://www.eltresourceroom.com/podcast/61-establishing-routines-for-your-recurring-tasks
Connect with Heather:
Website
Being prepared takes organization. And being organized takes… reflection?
Sometimes reflection can take a back seat to planning and teaching because it doesn't seem to have the same degree of urgency.
But reflecting before, during, and after events in your ELT life provides you with an opportunity for gaining insight into what works and what doesn’t for your teaching situation.
How you reflect and what your reflections tell you can help strengthen your organizational skills.
Similarly, your organizational systems can help you develop stronger reflection skills.
Listen in to find out how.
Get the guide to help you make professional development personal – step by step >> https://eltresourceroom.ck.page/products/personal-pd-plan
Do you wish you had less stress and overwhelm in your ELT life? Download your free resource “Reduce Your ELT Stress” and start seeing a change today >> https://reducestress.eltresourceroom.com
For full show notes of this episode, visit https://www.eltresourceroom.com/podcast/60-strengthen-your-organizational-skills-by-reflecting
Connect with Heather:
Website
Have you ever had moments where you’re calm, ready for the day, and then all of a sudden… you’re not?
A six-letter word is what often results: stress.
The good kind of stress can be motivating and even help you better fulfill your role as a teacher. The not-so-good kind of stress, however, can be overwhelming and cause you to lose focus, making it more difficult instead of easier to accomplish what needs to get done.
In this episode I share six steps you can take to keep your stress levels in check when your best-laid plans go awry.
Get the teaching contingency plan guide >> https://eltresourceroom.ck.page/products/teaching-contingency-plan
Do you wish you had less stress and overwhelm in your ELT life? Download your free resource “Reduce Your ELT Stress” and start seeing a change today. >> https://reducestress.eltresourceroom.com
For full show notes of this episode, visit https://www.eltresourceroom.com/podcast/59-6-steps-for-when-your-plans-go-awry
Connect with Heather:
Website
What’s your next step when it comes to reducing stress in your ELT life?
If you said organizational systems, you’re an EAP/ESL teacher after my own heart!
By now you know what organizational systems look like and how to choose ones that are right for you. The logical next step is for you to actually develop one. Wondering how?
In this episode, I share three ways you can do that.
No matter which route you choose, any one of the three will serve you well because each method has the same end goal – reducing stress and easing the overwhelm in your ELT life.
Ready to start your first organizational system? Get your personal PD plan template ("Fostering Professional Development... on Your Own Terms") and teaching contingency plan guide ("How to Prepare for When You Can't Teach") here >> www.eltresourceroom.com/resources
For full show notes of this episode, visit https://www.eltresourceroom.com/podcast/58-how-to-get-started-on-your-first-organizational-system
Connect with Heather:
Website
Are the choices you’re making, and the way in which you’re working in your ELT life, actually making things easier for yourself?
Sometimes we don’t realize that what’s creating difficulty in our lives is not necessarily someone or something else but our own decision-making when it comes to what we focus on. When and how we decide to work can affect the level of difficulty or ease we experience.
Identifying what’s causing the stress and overwhelm is the first step. Making a plan to reduce it is next.
Listen in for a useful identification exercise and four recommendations for making things easier for yourself.
For full show notes of this episode, visit https://www.eltresourceroom.com/podcast/57-making-things-easier-for-yourself
Do you wish you had less stress and overwhelm in your ELT life? Download your free resource “Reduce Your ELT Stress” and start seeing a change today >> https://reducestress.eltresourceroom.com
Connect with Heather:
Website
How do you decide what to do to make your ELT life less stressful?
Options abound...
- Should you use an app for your to-do list or stick with paper?
- Would it be more efficient to organize your course files by skill or level?
- Is it more logical to create multiple calendars for different types of tasks or one calendar with visual cues to distinguish between them?
Developing the right systems – for you and your ELT life – will help you manage your time and get things done. Yet trying to decide can be confusing and overwhelming, sometimes to the point of even avoiding making a decision.
In this episode, get a quick overview of the difference between tools and systems and then consider two factors for determining which right-for-you organizational systems you should develop.
For full show notes of this episode, visit https://www.eltresourceroom.com/podcast/56-developing-organizational-systems-that-are-right-for-you
Do you wish you had less stress and overwhelm in your ELT life? Download your free resource “Reduce Your ELT Stress” and start seeing a change today >> https://reducestress.eltresourceroom.com
Connect with Heather:
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What makes a system “good”?
This is a logical question, and I’m glad you asked!
You obviously don’t want to develop a system that isn’t good, but what does that look like? Which leads to another question, what does “good” even mean?
“Good” has multiple levels of meaning, and in the case of describing a system, I’m going to define it as this: It is appropriate and purposeful for you.
Although the systems you develop may differ from mine or from a colleague’s, the characteristics will be the same.
Listen in to find out what those characteristics are and how they can make all the difference in developing organizational systems that are right for you in your ELT life.
For full show notes of this episode, visit https://www.eltresourceroom.com/podcast/55-characteristics-of-a-good-organizational-system
Do you wish you had less stress and overwhelm in your ELT life? Download your free resource “Reduce Your ELT Stress” and start seeing a change today >> https://reducestress.eltresourceroom.com
Connect with Heather:
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Have you ever wondered what an organizational system really is?
Or said to yourself: “System” sounds complicated, and I’m not cut out for that.
Instead of giving up before you even start, keep asking those questions...
- Who are organizational systems for?
- When and where would I even use them?
- Why should I take the time and effort to create them?
- How would I go about using them after they’re developed?
Listen in to find out the answers.
Do you wish you had less stress and overwhelm in your ELT life? Download your free resource “Reduce Your ELT Stress” and start seeing a change today >> https://reducestress.eltresourceroom.com
For full show notes of this episode, visit https://www.eltresourceroom.com/podcast/54-the-5ws-of-organizational-systems
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How does organization fit into your ELT life? Does it have a leading role or a supporting one? And does it even matter?
A multitude of factors can affect how you answer, including when in a semester you ask yourself these questions!
While it might not be immediately obvious, and it may only play a small part, the amount of stress you experience is often tied to organization in some way.
It wasn’t until I was pushed to my limit of frustration that I finally realized this.
In this episode, I talk about why your level of organization matters – the people it affects and the purpose of setting up systems.
If you’ve ever wondered if getting organized is really all it’s hyped up to be, you’ll want to have a listen.
Do you wish you had less stress and overwhelm in your ELT life? Download your free resource “Reduce Your ELT Stress” and start seeing a change today >> https://reducestress.eltresourceroom.com
For full show notes of this episode, visit https://www.eltresourceroom.com/podcast/53-why-your-level-of-organization-matters
Connect with Heather:
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What do you have control of in your ELT life?
- Relationships?
- The environment?
- What and how you teach?
- Your professional development?
In whole or in part, some of these aspects you probably can control while others you can’t.
But one thing you absolutely can control? Your organization.
When I became more aware of what I was spending my time on, how often I was completing certain tasks, and what was frustrating me the most, I realized that I could choose to make my ELT life better – by organizing the different areas of my life.
Find out about the impact organization can have on your ELT life by listening to this episode.
For full show notes of this episode, visit https://www.eltresourceroom.com/podcast/52-how-organization-can-impact-your-elt-life
Do you wish you had less stress and overwhelm in your ELT life? Download your free resource “Reduce Your ELT Stress” and start seeing a change today >> https://reducestress.eltresourceroom.com
Connect with Heather:
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When you look at your teaching schedule, do you see small bits of time scattered throughout? Maybe 15 minutes here and 45 there.
Your life in ELT makes for an interesting schedule, doesn’t it? Your calendar is filled with classes, office hours, meetings, and plenty of other to-dos. It can be especially challenging when activities are broken up throughout the day that leave you with small bits of time in between to get things done.
Is there any way to take advantage of the situation?
Fortunately, there is. In this episode, discover where these small bits of time come from, why they can be problematic, and how you can practically take advantage of them.
Do you wish you had less stress and overwhelm in your ELT life? Download your 10 free tips and start seeing a change today >> https://reducestress.eltresourceroom.com
For full show notes of this episode, visit https://www.eltresourceroom.com/podcast/51-how-to-take-advantage-small-bits-time-in-your-teaching-schedule
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If you’ve ever gotten something organized in your ELT life, felt good about it, and then over the course of a semester slowly fell out of the habit, you’re not alone.
Being consistent in maintaining organizational systems can pose a challenge. It often takes several tries (aka practice) to make systems work, and that equals time and effort. But with the benefits of organization being so great, you’ll find that it’s worth it.
In this episode I discuss those benefits as well as walk you through an example organizational issue and how consistency can be achieved in your life as an EAP/ESL teacher.
For full show notes of this episode, visit https://www.eltresourceroom.com/podcast/50-achieving-organizational-consistency-eap-esl-teacher
Do you wish you had less stress and overwhelm in your ELT life? Download your free resource “Reduce Your ELT Stress” and start seeing a change today >> https://reducestress.eltresourceroom.com
Connect with Heather:
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How much time do you spend looking for or creating meaningful activities for your students throughout the semester?
Maybe you’ve spent hours searching for that “just right" activity a time or two, which can be extremely frustrating and exhausting.
Well, in today’s episode, you’re going to hear from Hall Houston, Lecturer at National Taipei University of Nursing and Health Sciences in Taipei, Taiwan.
It was in the fall of 2022 when I discovered his book, 101 EFL Activities for Teaching University Students. I found myself going back to it time and again throughout the academic year for meaningful, appropriate, and engaging activities.
Hall’s book is unlike any other I have on my shelf. It has saved me time (multiple times!) and has taken away the stress of finding those so-called perfect activities. It also has several distinct organizational features that I think you’ll find especially helpful as you plan and teach at different points in your semester.
Get Hall's book here >> https://www.itdi.pro/community/publishing/101-efl-activities-for-teaching-university-students/
For full show notes of this episode, visit https://www.eltresourceroom.com/podcast/49-implementing-meaningful-activities-every-stage-semester-hall-houston
Do you wish you had less stress and overwhelm in your ELT life? Download your free resource “Reduce Your ELT Stress” and start seeing a change today >> https://reducestress.eltresourceroom.com
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Have you ever gotten to the end of a term, breathed a sigh of relief, and then looked at your physical space, the relief quickly dissipating?
You chose to prioritize – planning and meeting with students were more important than making sure extra handouts were put away.
This is certainly a logical choice, and one I’ve made myself multiple times over the years. But sometimes what you see after exams and grading are done can be visually and mentally overwhelming.
Instead of ignoring the chaos or waiting until the next term starts (dreading it all the while), why not reorganize now?
In this episode, learn about the four steps you can take to do this at the end of your term.
Do you wish you had less stress and overwhelm in your ELT life? Download your free resource “Reduce Your ELT Stress” to start seeing a change today >> https://reducestress.eltresourceroom.com
For full show notes of this episode, visit https://www.eltresourceroom.com/podcast/48-reorganizing-your-physical-space-end-of-term
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What are you juggling in your ELT life right now?
It’s advantageous to be organized at any point in time, of course, but when things in your ELT life get busy, it’s even more so.
When you’re overwhelmed with so many things that it feels like you don't know what to do or where to go next, it’s definitely not what I’d call relaxing.
In this episode, I discuss three ways you can manage your busy ELT life despite the uninvited challenges.
Do you wish you had less stress and overwhelm in your ELT life? Download your free resource “Reduce Your ELT Stress” to start seeing a change today >> https://reducestress.eltresourceroom.com
For full show notes of this episode, visit https://www.eltresourceroom.com/podcast/47-3-ways-manage-busy-elt-life
If you sat down right now and made a list of every tech tool you use, how many do you think you’d come up with?
10, 15, 25, more than that?
As an English language teacher, you’ve probably tried all kinds of tech tools that promise to improve your students’ learning and make your life easier. There are certainly many tools that actually do deliver on their promises, but sometimes, all of the options can simply become overwhelming.
Instead of stressing out over trying to use the latest thing – or everything – join me in figuring out how to avoid the tech overwhelm in your ELT life.
Do you wish you had less stress and overwhelm in your ELT life? Download your free resource “Reduce Your ELT Stress” to start seeing a change today >> https://reducestress.eltresourceroom.com
For full show notes of this episode, visit https://www.eltresourceroom.com/podcast/46-how-to-avoid-tech-tool-overwhelm
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How organized is your EAP/ESL teaching?
Maybe your answer depends on the type of task or even the day of the week.
Getting organized certainly takes time, effort, and intention as well as an openness to learning new things. It also takes knowing about what can be organized and why.
Without a purpose, why organize?
When it comes to teaching (and I include the preparation and follow-up here too), my purpose is to ensure that I have everything I need so that I’m ready to teach, my classes go as smoothly as possible, and I have a solid foundation to keep up the momentum.
There are four essential elements that have helped me maintain my purpose, and you can hear about they can help you too in this episode.
Do you wish you had less stress and overwhelm in your ELT life? Download your free resource “Reduce Your ELT Stress” and start seeing a change today >> https://reducestress.eltresourceroom.com
For full show notes of this episode, visit https://www.eltresourceroom.com/podcast/45-4-essential-elements-organized-teaching
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To-do lists really aren’t all that effective.
Have you heard that before?
Most people, including me, use to-do lists, but there is some truth in that statement.
The point of a to-do list is to help you get things done. Yet do you have a list (or have had one in the past) and it feels like you never really make any headway? Perhaps it gets lost in the shuffle over time or you simply ignore it.
If a to-do list doesn’t actually do what it’s supposed to do, then should you even use one?
Check out this episode to learn about the pros and cons of a to-do list and then decide what’s best for you.
Do you wish you had less stress and overwhelm in your ELT life? Download your free resource “Reduce Your ELT Stress” to start seeing a change today >> https://reducestress.eltresourceroom.com
For full show notes of this episode, visit https://www.eltresourceroom.com/podcast/44-pros-cons-to-do-list
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How much “stuff” do you have?
You know, things like file folders, binder clips, textbooks, and even course materials on your computer.
And how much do you have to do?
Think of meetings, reviewing student work, lesson planning, and filling out forms required by your institution.
It can be difficult to keep up with everything every day. If you’re feeling overwhelmed with all of your “stuff”, you’re not alone, and you don’t need to feel ashamed or embarrassed for struggling to keep up.
I know what it’s like when you think you’ll never be able to get everything done – I spent the biggest part of my teaching career feeling like I was on a hamster wheel.
Stress in your ELT life will never completely go away (and a certain amount is actually good for you), but there are things you can do to reduce it.
Learn more in this episode about what to do when you’re overwhelmed with all of your “stuff”.
Do you wish you had less stress and overwhelm in your ELT life? Download your free resource “Reduce Your ELT Stress” to start seeing a change today >> https://reducestress.eltresourceroom.com
For full show notes of this episode, visit https://www.eltresourceroom.com/podcast/43-what-to-do-when-youre-overwhelmed-with-stuff
Connect with Heather:
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Have you ever felt like you just couldn’t give anymore of your time to your teaching job?
Maybe you were overwhelmed with the workload. Or stressed out because of unexpected changes.
There will likely always be fluctuations in your working hours due to factors outside of your control like student enrollment, staff turnover, and contractual expectations. Even your own beliefs about how much time you ought to be putting into your work come into play.
No matter the reason though, even including the reasons that are out of your control, there are ways you can cut down on your working hours.
The organizational systems that you set up, carry out, and maintain? These are the key to helping you reduce stress and ease the overwhelm that come with working as an EAP/ESL teacher.
Do you wish you had less stress and overwhelm in your ELT life? Download your free resource “Reduce Your ELT Stress” to start seeing a change today >> https://reducestress.eltresourceroom.com
For full show notes of this episode, visit https://www.eltresourceroom.com/podcast/42-4-tips-for-cutting-down-on-your-working-hours
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"What can I do about all of the digital files that keep piling up?"
A participant asked this question at the end of a training session I provided for ELT freelancers a couple of months ago. It’s a really good one, isn’t it?
Over time it’s only natural to accumulate quite a collection, which can become an overwhelming part of your ELT life.
So what can you actually do about all of those digital files that keep piling up?
Tune in to today's episode to discover the two aspects you’ll want to focus on.
Do you wish you had less stress and overwhelm in your ELT life? Download your free resource “Reduce Your ELT Stress” to start seeing a change today. >> https://reducestress.eltresourceroom.com
For full show notes of this episode, visit https://www.eltresourceroom.com/podcast/41-how-to-clean-up-your-digital-files
Connect with Heather:
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Want to turn those ELT goals into reality?
Whether big or small, the aspirations you have for improving the lives of your students and yourself are worthy. But sometimes, it can be a challenge to actually see them through. You think:
- Do I really have time to do this?
- Let’s do this thing! (2 months later…) Wait, what was it that I wanted to do?
- There’s no way this would work.
Instead of jumping right in or completely dismissing the ideas you have, listen to today’s episode for the three steps you can take that will make it possible for you to achieve more of those goals.
Do you wish you had less stress and overwhelm in your ELT life? Download your free resource “Reduce Your ELT Stress” to start seeing a change today >> https://reducestress.eltresourceroom.com
For full show notes of this episode, visit https://www.eltresourceroom.com/podcast/40-turning-your-elt-goals-into-reality
Connect with Heather:
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You want to make improvements to a course you’re teaching.
You think, "Ugh, that lesson could have been better." Or perhaps it's more like, "I can't wait until I can start this course all over again."
Instead of feeling overwhelmed or guilty, allow yourself to celebrate the fact that you're noticing and reflecting, both of which are necessary parts to thriving in ELT.
When it comes to making changes to a course, it doesn't have to be a stressful and overwhelming experience. In fact, when you do it systematically, it can be quite invigorating.
Listen to find out what that systematic process looks like and get started on improving that course that’s on your mind.
Do you wish you had less stress and overwhelm in your ELT life? Download your free resource “Reduce Your ELT Stress” to get started today >> https://reducestress.eltresourceroom.com
For full show notes of this episode, visit https://www.eltresourceroom.com/podcast/39-how-to-make-systematic-improvements-to-courses-you-teach
Connect with Heather:
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Have you ever noticed that the word no doesn't have a very good reputation in certain situations?
Saying yes, on the other hand, often gets accolades.
There are some situations that are really easy to say no to. But when it comes to everyday ELT life, many things come up where you're probably more likely to say yes.
Whichever you decide, either yes or no, you want your answer to work for you. This doesn’t mean that you choose in a selfish way, but rather, that you choose in a reasonable way.
Your job as an EAP/ESL teacher is to serve your students in addition to your colleagues, institutional program, and, yes, even yourself.
For full show notes of this episode, visit https://www.eltresourceroom.com/podcast/38-saying-yes-or-no-when-is-one-better-than-other
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Mundane tasks. Those ordinary, day-to-day things you have to do but don't consider all that exciting or motivating. (Maybe they even make you sigh, roll your eyes, or grit your teeth a little?)
As an EAP/ESL teacher, some of your mundane tasks may include:
- reading, writing, or responding to certain emails;
- filling out your timesheet or leave report;
- reviewing student work;
- preparing for meetings; or
- completing administrative forms.
The truth is though, all of these can be just as significant to complete as those tasks you might classify as urgent or important.
Check out today’s episode to find out why they matter and how to tackle them.
For full show notes of this episode, visit eltresourceroom.com/podcast/37-why-mundane-tasks-matter-what-to-do-about-them
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What do you use Google Drive for as an EAP/ESL teacher?
- Creating course documents?
- Collaborating with an ELT colleague for an upcoming conference presentation?
- Sharing ideas and giving feedback?
Google Drive has a ton of great features, but … it can be a bit overwhelming and frustrating at times.
In today’s episode, I share 5 tips on what you want to do and don’t want to do when using Google Drive.
For full show notes of this episode, visit https://www.eltresourceroom.com/podcast/36-the-dos-and-donts-of-google-drive
Book a free 15-minute call to see if working with me one-on-one on your Google Drive is the right next step for you >> https://hello.dubsado.com/public/form/view/6307deacfa690742379f6e31
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One definition of organization is that it’s “the quality of being arranged in a way that is sensible and useful.”
Did you notice that it doesn’t say anything about being perfect … or fixed?
Sometimes we EAP/ESL teachers can be really strict with ourselves thinking that we have to stick with a specific formula for any number of reasons.
But in today’s episode, I share why your organizational systems should allow you to be flexible and not make you feel forced to be rigid with yourself or a situation, especially when pivoting or adapting makes good sense.
Whether it’s for your instruction, your workspace, or even your email, the systems you have in place are meant to support you and not box you in.
For full show notes of this episode, visit https://www.eltresourceroom.com/podcast/35-why-organization-is-about-being-flexible-and-not-fixed
Connect with Heather:
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Remember how you started off the new semester feeling refreshed and ready to go?
Your desk was one area you got prepared. You were happy with the newly tidied and organized space, and you were determined to keep it that way.
Now you’re full on in the semester though, and maintaining an organized desk area is not always at the top of your priority list.
Yet if the items on your desk aren’t helping you stay focused and productive, then it may be time to look at what you’ve got and decide if it all really needs to be there.
In today’s episode, I give you a scenario and several questions to consider to help you figure out just what items you need for a desk area that’s comfortable and conducive for working on all of your EAP/IEP tasks.
For full show notes of this episode, visit https://www.eltresourceroom.com/podcast/34-what-really-needs-to-be-on-your-desk
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“How am I going to get all of this done?”
Once you settle into a new term, you figure out what to expect from week to week.
But occassionally there’s a week that sneaks in that isn’t quite so normal, and the stress level starts to rise.
You've ...
- agreed to substitute for two of your colleagues.
- got a conference presentation on Thursday, which happens to be your busiest teaching day.
- just noticed after going through your emails that you forgot to put a committee project deadline on your calendar … and it’s in three days.
On top of these additional responsibilities, your brain also reminds you that you have your own lessons to prepare for and classes to teach next week. One thought leads to another, and you start to feel overwhelmed.
So, how are you going to get it all done?
In today’s episode, I share five steps to help you figure out an answer to this question. Each one is practical addressing both logistics and personal wellbeing, and they don’t require a lot of time to implement.
For full show notes of this episode, visit eltresourceroom.com/podcast/33-5-steps-for-managing-an-overwhelming-week
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In your experience teaching academic English, have you ever … stayed late at the office? worked on a weekend a time or two (or more than you can count)?
Maybe you’ve done so because it was the only way to get everything done. Maybe it's because you consider yourself a dedicated ELT professional. Or perhaps it's because working long and hard is just part of the job.
On their own, there's nothing wrong with being dedicated to your profession and working late.
But when the choices you make in your ELT life cause you to feel overwhelmed or stressed – or even guilty, then it could be because either you haven’t established any boundaries yet or the ones you do have are being crossed.
In today’s Thrive in ELT episode, I focus on three major aspects to help you evaluate if taking a next step toward creating boundaries is right for you.
Setting boundaries doesn’t mean that you won’t ever stay late again or take work home with you. But it does mean that you are aware of what you need to achieve and sustain the ELT life you'd really like to lead.
And guess what? It all starts with just one small step.
Connect with Heather:
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In your experience teaching academic English, have you ever … stayed late at the office? worked on a weekend a time or two (or more than you can count)?
Maybe you’ve done so because it was the only way to get everything done. Maybe it's because you consider yourself a dedicated ELT professional. Or perhaps it's because working long and hard is just part of the job.
On their own, there's nothing wrong with being dedicated to your profession and working late.
But when the choices you make in your ELT life cause you to feel overwhelmed or stressed – or even guilty, then it could be because either you haven’t established any boundaries yet or the ones you do have are being crossed.
In today’s Thrive in ELT episode, I focus on three major aspects to help you evaluate if taking a next step toward creating boundaries is right for you.
Setting boundaries doesn’t mean that you won’t ever stay late again or take work home with you. But it does mean that you are aware of what you need to achieve and sustain the ELT life you'd really like to lead.
And guess what? It all starts with just one small step.
Connect with Heather:
Website
What if …?
We make contingency plans for all kinds of moments in our lives.
These plans provide us with an opportunity to experience less stress and overwhelm when the possibilities become realities.
The probability of needing contingency plans in your ELT life is no less likely than in any other part of life.
What if …
- your car won’t start?
- you or your child is sick and you have to stay home?
- your home heating system all of sudden quits and it’s in the dead of winter?
In today’s episode I share three aspects you need to consider when it comes to creating a teaching contingency plan. I also recount a recent personal story to help you decide if a contingency plan is something you need as an EAP/IEP professional.
Connect with Heather:
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Forming a contingency plan requires time and multiple organizational systems to be established, and I know that that can feel a little daunting.
If you’d like guidance on putting a plan together, or setting up some organizational systems to reduce your stress and ease the overwhelm, I invite you to book a free 15-minute call with me to see if 1:1 coaching is something that would benefit you.
What if …?
We make contingency plans for all kinds of moments in our lives.
These plans provide us with an opportunity to experience less stress and overwhelm when the possibilities become realities.
The probability of needing contingency plans in your ELT life is no less likely than in any other part of life.
What if …
- your car won’t start?
- you or your child is sick and you have to stay home?
- your home heating system all of sudden quits and it’s in the dead of winter?
In today’s episode I share three aspects you need to consider when it comes to creating a teaching contingency plan. I also recount a recent personal story to help you decide if a contingency plan is something you need as an EAP/IEP professional.
Connect with Heather:
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Forming a contingency plan requires time and multiple organizational systems to be established, and I know that that can feel a little daunting.
If you’d like guidance on putting a plan together, or setting up some organizational systems to reduce your stress and ease the overwhelm, I invite you to book a free 15-minute call with me to see if 1:1 coaching is something that would benefit you.
Have you ever noticed that no matter where you are in a term, planning never really stops?
Weeks into it, you’re still adding and refining, and at the end, you find yourself making notes about things you want to change for next time.
So if it’s the case that you’re always planning, then why is it so important to make space for it before a term even begins?
Well, it’s at this point in time that you have the opportunity to really set the stage for an effective learning and teaching experience.
It’s also when you have more time to think.
Giving yourself lead time to brainstorm and consider options will result in greater focus, productivity, and even creativity.
In today’s episode you’ll:
- hear about the process I went through recently to prepare for an academic writing course and
- be led through a series of questions to get you thinking about how you can make space to lesson plan when you start your new term.
Connect with Heather:
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There’s nothing that says you teach English for Academic Purposes quite like your schedule, right?
Classes, office hours, meetings, training sessions, and the list goes on.
It can be really hard to get things done when you’re constantly on the move with few opportunities for extended periods of concentrated work time.
Those dreams of teaching in the mornings and planning in the afternoons do come true sometimes, but when they don’t, you need a plan.
In today’s episode, I share just two steps that will help you be as focused and productive as possible for the next time you deal with a schedule that’s all over the place.
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Files, folders, the cloud …
If you're like me, you couldn’t survive as an ELT professional without them!
But when you open your storage system, what do you see?
- Three to five main folders?
- Or hundreds of individual files?
How long would it take to find that shared presentation from the latest conference?
- Five clicks in five seconds?
- Or five minutes because you forgot where you saved it (and the file name)?
As great as digital storage is for all that you do, it can also be overwhelming and frustrating.
Instead of stressing out and wasting time, listen to today’s episode for three practices you can implement right away that will get your ELT digital space working for you and not against you.
Connect with Heather:
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Have you ever been taking care of all the things that need to get done at the beginning or end of a term and realized that you haven’t left the building all week except to go home?
Have you ever had so many PD events lined up that you’ve forgotten one or two (or three)?
Have you ever gotten into a routine that doesn’t include time for YOU?
When we’re in work mode, it can be really easy to tell ourselves that we should only focus on the work every day at every moment and forgo setting aside any time for ourselves.
Yet we know that if we don’t take care of ourselves, we can become overwhelmed, forgetful, lose focus, and sometimes even feel guilty or resentful.
Your “you” time is worth attending to.
In today’s episode, I take a look at two areas to consider when thinking about your “you” time and how implementing organizational systems can help this part of your ELT life get the attention it deserves.
P.S. I’m currently conducting some market research and would love your thoughts on how things are going for you in your ELT life! If you teach academic English, would you mind taking a few minutes to respond to this survey? Your answers will help me determine my next steps for how I serve you. If you don’t teach academic English but know someone who does, then please share the link or this episode with them. I will be very grateful.
For today's full show notes, go to https://www.eltresourceroom.com/podcast/27-making-the-most-of-your-you-time-how-organization-can-help
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Going through all of your email messages not your favorite thing to do?
Overwhelmed with thinking about all the things that need to get done … tomorrow?
Wish you had gathered progress updates on your students for today’s meeting a bit earlier?
It can be easy to let administrative tasks like these slide when there are so many other more important things that need to get done – like lesson planning, conferencing with your students, or working toward that next professional development goal.
Yet they’re a part of our ELT lives that we can’t avoid … even if we’d like to!
In today’s episode, I talk about four administrative tasks (and, yes, email is one of them!) that, if set up in an organized way, can provide support and focus for all of that other more important work.
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Do you ever wish that the lesson materials sitting on your desk would find their own way back to the shelf? Or have you ever been ready to file away those important student documents from weeks ago but can’t find them now?
Our brains like it when our work spaces have order to them.
We can put all of our attention on the important task at hand, and time is spent more productively with fewer distractions and less stress.
In today’s episode, I discuss three areas of your physical work space to get organized, what organization looks like in each of these spaces, and what you can do to maintain the organization that you create.
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When you think of English language teaching, this is probably the part that comes to mind first – instruction. It’s what we do, right?
Yet instruction involves so much more than the time we spend with our learners in a single lesson.
To even get to that point, we have to plan. But what happens when your plans aren’t organized? I know what happens to me – I forget things, lose focus, and feel overwhelmed. These do not make an instructor feel assured!
So, what can you do to keep your focus, save time, and be confident in what you’re doing? The answer is to organize.
In today’s episode, I talk about why organizing your instruction is important and which questions to ask yourself so that you can assess your current level of organization. I also provide some practical examples on how to increase your preparedness and assuredness for the next time you meet with your learners.
Support your instructional organization by having the right materials to use. Download your free copy of 12 Meaningful ESL/EFL Resources for Adult Instruction here >>> https://12resources.eltresourceroom.com
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On a scale of 1-10, how organized would you say you are? And how organized would you like to be?
Not being organized leads to clutter, stress, constant busyness, and feeling overwhelmed.
But being organized brings relief, greater focus and productivity, and a reclaiming of time.
In today’s episode, I’m sharing four areas in your ELT professional life where organization is key. Whether you love organizing or you’d rather be doing something else, I encourage you to evaluate these four areas and discover ways to set yourself up for more enjoyable, less stressful days ahead.
Be sure to get your free 12 Meaningful ESL/EFL Resources for Adult Instruction here >>> https://12resources.eltresourceroom.com
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Have you ever been unmotivated to go to class even though your learners are terrific? Or have you ever wondered why you aren’t enthusiastic about going in to work despite your supportive colleagues? Have you felt guilty for feeling that way?
I’ve been there, and it’s not a fun place!
In today’s episode, I share four things you can do to get through the challenges in your ELT life:
- Give yourself time and permission to feel what you're feeling.
- Write down or talk with someone else about what you are feeling.
- Thrive by recalling your wins.
- Persevere.
Be sure to get your free 12 Meaningful ESL/EFL Resources for Adult Instruction here! >>> https://12resources.eltresourceroom.com
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Does just thinking about presenting or working on certain professional development activities by yourself make you feel a little nervous or overwhelmed? What if instead of going it alone you made strides toward growth with someone?
In today’s episode you’re going to get a lot of good insight about PD collaboration from Ashley Micklos, the Curriculum Director and an instructor at the Wisconsin ESL Institute in Madison, Wisconsin.
In our conversation, Ashley talks about her own professional development journey in ELT and how collaboration has been a part of that process. She also shares about the different ways she’s collaborated and provides encouraging words for you to do the same.
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Did you know that our brains are actually hard-wired to take the easy way out? I don’t know about you, but that makes me feel a little bit better about some of my professional decisions!
Although I'm not suggesting you go all in, taking a small step forward on the less easy path can encourage necessary growth.
In today’s episode, I give examples of what “presenting” can look like. (Hint: Conference presentations are just one of many.) Then I share two reasons why presenting, and not only attending, PD can be a next step in your journey toward ELT growth.
The key is to start small and move along at your own pace, making choices that are right for you in your ELT life.
Don't forget to download the free 12 Meaningful ESL/EFL Resources for Adult Instruction here >>> https://12resources.eltresourceroom.com
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What do you do after a professional development event? Do you make an immediate plan to put what you’ve learned into action? Or do you set aside the notes and thoughts telling yourself you’ll get to them later?
I’ve done both, and I’m sure we’d agree on which one is more difficult!
If you’re a person who values professional growth, then you have to be intentional about following up on the PD opportunities in which you take part.
In today’s episode I take you through three steps – three solutions – that will focus you on getting the most out of those opportunities and ensure that your growth doesn’t stop at the close of an event.
Don't forget to download the free 12 Meaningful ESL/EFL Resources for Adult Instruction at this link >>> https://12resources.eltresourceroom.com
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Where are you on your ELT professional development journey? Do you know the direction in which you’re headed? Do you know why you’re going there?
There’s a lot more to choosing PD opportunities than simply choosing. You need a personal PD plan – a plan that’s created just for you, your preferences, and needs. A plan that’s created by you.
In today’s episode I share four important reasons why you need your own PD plan.
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Why do you choose to participate in professional development? To learn something new? To grow in a particular area? Professional development is a necessary and beneficial activity you can, and should, participate in. But sometimes, it can pose problems that get in the way of taking part.
In this episode I talk about the problems that can keep you from saying yes to an opportunity or from even wanting to say yes. I also suggest several practical solutions so you can get past the issues and move forward growing in your role as an ESL/EFL instructor.
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Have you seen (and maybe even participated in!) more professional development opportunities than you ever imagined before 2020?
With all of the conferences, webinars, and available recordings, it can be easy to find yourself overwhelmed with deciding which ones to attend and even if you should participate.
In today’s episode I’m going to share what my own professional development journey has looked like over the years and what you can do to take your next step toward growing as an ESL or EFL instructor.
You’ll want a pen and notepad for this one – it’s time to map out your own PD timeline and figure out where your unique place is in the ELT professional development experience!
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Textbooks. They can provide you with a foundation when teaching a new course, structure for lesson planning, and ideas for supporting activities. But you may have also felt bound by them at one point or another. In today’s episode, I’m answering four questions I’m often asked when it comes to using ELT textbooks: 1. How is it possible for me to get through all of this? 2. Do I need to cover everything, or can I pick and choose what to use? 3. How do I know what I should use? 4. Do I have to use the textbook?
The answers lead to considering the purpose of textbooks and, finally, to helping you figure out if using textbooks in your English language courses is a hindrance or help. If you’re looking for age-appropriate materials for your students, be sure to download the free 12 Meaningful ESL/EFL Resources for Adult Instruction at this link >>> https://12resources.eltresourceroom.com or by going to today’s show notes on my website.
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Your extended break was so good – you’re rested and your brain isn’t foggy. Why? Because there was no weekday alarm and you could enjoy that favorite hot beverage at a leisurely pace!
But a new semester is approaching and you’re starting to feel a bit stressed and maybe even a little gloomy.
And it’s not that you don’t like what you do. In fact, you really enjoy it.
It’s just that you know that alongside the satisfying moments comes busyness and ultimately, stress. When you start to dread going back to work or the classroom, it can be really hard to become motivated.
The good news is that you have control over how you react to these thoughts and feelings, and you can make an action plan instead. So today I’m sharing with you four things that will help you get motivated for a new semester.
These don’t have to be completed in any particular order, and you can even decide if you want to try all four or just one.
I would love to hear how you’re motivating yourself to get started in your upcoming semester, so let me know by connecting with me on social media or replying to one of my emails.
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What does it look like when you serve your students well? Is it well-planned, engaging lessons? Opportunities for students to practice with meaningful resources? Talking through questions and challenges both in and out of the classroom?
It’s definitely all of these and more. But at what cost?
One of my core value statements in serving you is: Service to students and self must be balanced. This is not an easy thing to do!
While you’re grateful for your role as an instructor in ELT, you’re also exhausted and frustrated at times. Towards the end of a semester you may even find yourself less motivated and more forgetful.
These are not the conditions for serving your students well.
In today’s episode I’m talking about the reason you need breaks – and not just the two-week holiday kind. Research shows that you need regular breaks for your mind and body.
After listening, I challenge you to make a conscious effort to find ways you can serve yourself so that service to your students remains valuable and uninterrupted.
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Do you ever ask yourself that question?
Following week after week of planning lessons – and then changing them – your teaching world comes to a screeching halt. You have no classes to prepare for or lessons to teach.
It’s the transitional time between one semester and another. The odd part is that you can’t stay in the past and you can’t move toward the future without taking the steps to link the two.
So how do you do that? You focus on thriving.
In today’s episode I share six steps to take you through this change in seasons.
Check out the full show notes at eltresourceroom.com/podcast/12-the-semester-is-over-now-what
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What has been your experience teaching academic writing in the ELT setting? What are the strategies you find yourself using over and over again?
In this episode I’ll be sharing five tips to help you stay focused and keep moving forward in your academic writing instruction. I’ll also share a not so uncommon experience of overwhelm -- starting something new or getting back into something you haven’t done in a long time.
Be sure to check out the full show notes for links to the resources I mention in today’s episode.
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What was your most recent gratitude-filled ELT moment? Where were you? What were you doing? Who were you with?
Being grateful when teaching can be difficult. Stress and exhaustion can set in, and sometimes the things we even enjoy doing -- like looking for supplemental resources and catching up on the latest issue of a professional journal -- can feel monotonous.
In today’s episode I share with you some interesting findings I came across not long ago about the benefits of being grateful. I’ll also tell you how I went from having mostly negative emotions to positive ones during the previous academic year.
While changes didn’t occur overnight, I’ve seen a marked shift from January 2021 to today because of my efforts to take notice of everything I’m grateful for in my life -- including many things in my work life.
For the full show notes, visit www.eltresourceroom.com/podcast/10-gratitude-in-elt
If you enjoyed this episode, please consider leaving a rating and review in your podcast app.
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Where do you go to find reliable materials for your adult students? What’s your process for choosing the right ones?
In today’s episode I talk about the process for choosing the (so-called) best resources. But what really defines “best”?
As instructors, you and I don’t want just “okay” or “pretty good.” That’s not going to serve our students or ourselves well. However, what’s good for me might not necessarily be good for you. What’s important is that you look at your unique situation: your students, your curriculum, and your expectations.
After looking at the steps of this process, I also walk you through an example of finding and selecting materials that support a specific objective in an advanced oral skills class I teach.
Wherever you like to search for meaningful resources, I hope that today’s episode provides you with helpful tips and a practical model you can follow.
If you’re looking for age-appropriate materials for your students, be sure to download the free 12 Meaningful ESL/EFL Resources for Adult Instruction at this link >>> https://12resources.eltresourceroom.com or by going to today’s show notes on my website at eltresourceroom.com.
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What resources do you have to teach your ESL/EFL students online? Are they providing you with everything you need right when you need it most?
In the world of ELT, resources are your support system. They can help you introduce an idea, extend upon previous lessons, or reinforce a specific skill. Using resources to help you teach in person is probably second nature to you. But what happens when the materials you were using in person no longer work -- or at least as easily -- online?
In today’s episode I share with you the essential resources you need for teaching online: physical and digital materials, the systems you use, and the people around you.
As you continue navigating the world of online teaching, be sure to check out the free 12 Meaningful ESL/EFL Resources for Adult Instruction. You can get the free resource by visiting my website or going to this link: https://12resources.eltresourceroom.com
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What procedures do you have in place for your online teaching? Are they helping both you and your students succeed?
While our situations aren’t exactly the same, I would bet that we have more in common than we might think.
Today I’ll be talking about my key takeaways from teaching online in the 2020-2021 academic year. The three strategies that I’ll be sharing with you -- establishing routines, building rapport, and creating activities that allow students the opportunity to interact with materials -- made my online life more manageable and ultimately more successful than if I hadn’t put them into action.
My goal for you in this episode is twofold. I want you to be able to:
- gain strategies that you can immediately apply to your unique teaching situation and
- begin to evaluate your current strategies for their effectiveness.
Teaching online takes a great amount of time and effort to do well. Over time it also takes a mental toll.
If you have a specific question or issue you’re struggling with, you can always schedule a one-on-one coaching call on my website. I would love to help you get to a more energized and encouraging place.
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Schedule a 1:1 Coaching Call:
https://hello.dubsado.com/public/appointment-scheduler/60f8878ee24d901560842292/schedule?isIframe=true
Are you providing online instruction again this academic year?
By now it’s been a year and a half of teaching classes online for many in the ELT profession. We’ve certainly learned a lot, but there are still challenges that cause overwhelm and frustration.
Probably like you, I spent much of last year teaching online. While things did get better, it wasn’t always easy.
In this episode, I talk about how to make online teaching work for you. I don’t propose a one-size-fits-all solution, but instead provide questions to ponder and strategies to consider to help you decide what’s best for you and your students in your unique circumstance.
There are three major aspects to examine when making decisions in regards to online instruction in ELT:
- your expectations,
- technology, and
- things in your control.
Obstacles and burdens abound in online teaching, especially when it’s new or you’re still figuring things out. However, there are steps you can take to make the experience manageable and viable.
As you continue navigating the world of online teaching, be sure to check out the free 12 Meaningful ESL/EFL Resources for Adult Instruction. You can get the free resource by visiting my website or going to this link: https://12resources.eltresourceroom.com
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How often do you reflect on your teaching and students’ learning? Do you ever unfairly critique yourself? When was the last time you celebrated your ELT life?
Each of these questions relates to the third phase in the Plan, Do, Thrive Process, which I’m talking about in this episode.
We often think of thriving as being successful. While success is definitely part of it, thriving doesn’t necessarily mean everything is perfect or that an end goal has been met. Thriving means you're in the act of growing and developing.
Here are the three actions you need to take to thrive:
- reflect,
- forgive yourself, and
- celebrate the wins.
There are many different ways to reflect, each one taking a different amount of time and having a specific purpose; all of them are valuable. You should choose the methods that fit your schedule and match your personality and goal.
If you find yourself critiquing what you said or did in class -- or what you didn’t say or do -- you’re not alone. And if you ever feel guilty for not meeting your own expectations for serving your students, I know of many other instructors, including myself, who deal with that feeling right alongside you. Making the effort to forgive yourself is one step toward thriving.
And while you may think you’re too busy to stop and have a party, celebrating your wins is just as important as the first two actions!
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What do materials, sequencing, and timing all have in common? They’re the components we use every day to create quality, engaging lessons and courses for our students.
There are many things that may come to mind when you think about instruction -- giving information, asking and answering questions, or providing students with time to practice, think and discover rules and ideas on their own.
You most likely spend a lot of time planning, so the Do phase is when you honor yourself by following through with your intentional, realistic, committed, and timely effort. This doesn’t mean you can’t and shouldn’t be flexible and make changes when needed, but it does mean you recognize what’s better for your students -- sticking to your original plan or modifying if necessary.
In the Do phase there are three main elements to keep you focused on your instruction:
- being aware of your plan,
- following your plan, and
- believing in your plan.
I invite you to download the free resource I have for you that will help you as you plan and do in the coming days. In the 12 Meaningful ESL/EFL Resources for Adult Instruction, I identify appropriate skill and level designations, explain why each resource is so meaningful, and provide you with direct links to the sources as well as several ready-to-use activities I’ve used myself. You can get the free resource by visiting my website or going to this link: https://12resources.eltresourceroom.com
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Do you have everything you need to provide quality instruction to your students throughout the term? Is there anything in your course or lesson that requires students to know how to do before they can practice what they’ve learned? How many days prior to the start of a course or lesson do you usually begin planning?
These are just some of the many reflective questions I’ll be posing to you in today’s episode where I go deeper into the first phase of the Plan, Do, Thrive Process.
Planning is the foundational phase. It’s where you set your expectations for your course or lesson and determine what is best to help your students succeed. It’s also the place where you set yourself up for success in the subsequent phases.
In the Plan phase there are four main components we’ll explore:
- being intentional,
- being realistic,
- being committed, and
- being timely.
Asking yourself the questions for each component will guide you in your thinking and evaluation of your own planning. I encourage you to block out some time to really sit with these questions and answer as thoroughly as you can.
Download the free reflective questions from the episode by going to today’s show notes on my website at eltresourceroom.com/podcast/3-the-why-how-and-when-of-planning
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Do you ever feel like you’re not as focused as you’d like to be when it comes to planning, instruction, and reflection? The ELT profession requires an ability and willingness to adapt to a variety of changes. What doesn’t change, though, is the need to support our students and ourselves so we can continue moving forward.
A focused process is necessary to get you through all of the weeks, months, and years you will serve your students in the classroom.
In this episode, I’m going to share with you the three-phase process I realized I had created that helps me stay focused at each step on my ELT journey. I believe it can help you, too, by concentrating on intentional, tangible actions at each stage.
Get ready to Plan, Do, Thrive!
You can see a visual illustration of this process by going to today’s show notes on my website at eltresourceroom.com/podcast/2-three-phase-process-for-focused-elt
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Welcome to the Thrive in ELT Podcast! If you’re an ESL/EFL instructor of adults who wants to serve your students well and grow professionally, this podcast is for you.
We both know that this profession is a demanding one and that the challenges can be quite overwhelming and frustrating at times. I’ve been in the ELT field for 17 years myself, so I understand how important it is to be reinvigorated and encouraged to keep moving forward. I believe it is possible to thrive through intention and relationship, and that's why I’ve started this podcast for you.
In today’s episode I’ll talk about:
- some of those challenges I've heard from instructors like you,
- my own ELT journey,
- the purpose of this podcast, and
- what to expect in future episodes.
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