It’s that time of year again, the one where we take stock of where we are in our lives and are determined to make some changes, both personally and professionally. Yes, it is easier said than done because teachers already have so much on their plates. We are here to offer some positive resolutions that don’t ask more of you but instead ask you to look at the fantastic things you are already doing because you ARE doing amazing things! So, please take a moment to focus on the small, everyday things and use them to create a new mindset for 2025.

Foster a Growth Mindset in your Classroom.

Today is a chance to change or reset your mindset. We know how this works - our abilities are not set in stone, and hard work and lots of encouragement can take us wherever we want to go. Stay open to new ways of teaching. Try some newfangled technology. Find a conference offering something new and different, and let it ignite excitement to try something new in your classroom. Challenge your students, get them to take risks, and let failure happen because failure is a stepping stone to success. Show your kids that learning and improvement are what matters most.

Prioritize Self-Care and Well-Being

Teaching is such a rewarding profession, but it is also one of the most demanding. This is why taking care of yourself is so important. Teachers are leaving the profession in droves due to stress and burnout. Self-care could be your most challenging yet most important resolution of the year. Even if you can only do something once a week, it can be incredibly beneficial to your mental and physical health.

Here are a few things to consider:

• Walk with a colleague or friend after school - even for just 20 minutes.
• Use five minutes of your prep time to just breathe - mindfulness can work wonders.
• Read a book for yourself, NOT one about work.
• Find a hobby you enjoy.

Also, be kind to yourself. Everyone has limitations, and taking time to recharge will make you feel better and help you to be more effective in the classroom. Teachers are better equipped to support their students and contribute to a positive school environment when they nurture their well-being.

Learn to Say No

Saying no is hard, especially when it is something for your students. Teachers are helpers by nature, but taking on too much can lead to stress and burnout. This year, set boundaries and stick to them. Avoid overcommitting; you don’t have to attend every school event or volunteer for another club or committee. Saying no can be difficult, but it is essential to preserving your energy and well-being.

Choose to Ask for Help

No teacher is an island; you are part of a community. Don’t hesitate to reach out to your colleagues, administrator, or professional networks for guidance. Asking for help is not a sign of weakness, but recognizing that even the most experienced teachers sometimes need support or just a good old-fashioned pep talk.

Set Achievable Goals

Goals are great, but we need to be practical. Take some time to think about what you are good at and what areas need work, and then set those goals that are reasonable and attainable and don’t put too much pressure on you.

Don’t Take It Personally

It’s important to remember that what is happening in your classroom and that email you just got from a parent isn’t always about you. Nor is it always a reflection of your worth or ability as a teacher. Sometimes, people have a bad day, and they lash out. Maybe something is going on at home that you don’t know about. Try not to internalize whenever there is a setback or criticism of your work. Give grace to others and maintain your focus on the bigger picture.

New Year’s resolutions can be easy to make but hard to accomplish, especially in the long run. This new year presents the opportunity to recalibrate and set some goals to make your 2025 amazing!