1. You don’t need to be perfect—you just need to care. Teaching is human work. Let students see your effort and your empathy, not just your content knowledge.
3. Routines are a game-changer. Establish procedures for everything: entering the room, asking questions, packing up. Practice routines daily until they’re second nature.
9. Keep instructions short and sharp. Aim for fewer than 10 words when giving instructions. Say them once, write them down, and check for understanding.
14. Don’t mark everything. Be strategic. Use formative assessments, peer review, and quick check-ins instead of marking every book every week.
18. Celebrate the small wins. A quiet student contributing. A whole class transition without a reminder. These matter. Recognize them.
19. Get students moving. Use brain breaks, active learning, and outdoor activities. Movement boosts focus and well-being.
20. Reflect (even briefly). Try a two-minute journal at the end of the day. What went well? What will I try differently?
21. One tough lesson doesn’t define you. We all have lessons that fall flat. Students forget them; you should too.
24. Well-being is not a luxury—it’s essential. Get sleep. Move your body. Eat lunch. Your energy is your greatest resource in the classroom.
28. You don’t have to do it all. Choose one area to improve each term. Let yourself grow gradually.