It’s almost time for the Christmas break, and no doubt teachers in secondary and higher education will be looking forward to the holidays. Teaching can be a stressful job, and the last few weeks before Christmas can be particularly hectic, with deadlines and extracurricular events taking up extra time.
However, it is not always easy to switch off your mind from work, and wind down for a while. To make the most from your time off, it can help to set some boundaries. Remember that this isn’t just about not working, but it’s about making sure you are sufficiently well rested so that you can perform at your best next term.
Block off the first few days for yourself
No doubt you will have brought home with you a sackful of marking and lesson planning to catch up on. However tempting it may be to try and get it done and dusted, put it to one side and have at least a few work-free days. You’ve earned it! Sleep in, go for a walk, read a book (but not a work-related book!).
Don’t talk about your job
Try and avoid socialising with other teachers, and if you have to (say, if you are married to one…) don’t talk about work. It might be tempting to let off steam about a particular class or colleague, or some school-related issue, but this is rarely helpful and will just keep work at the forefront of your mind.
Avoid email
Furthermore, don’t be tempted to check your work emails during holiday times, and mute any work-based WhatsApp groups. Your colleagues shouldn’t be contacting you during official leave time, and you don’t have to reply.
Go back to neglected hobbies
Chances are your hobbies and interests have taken a back seat during term time. If you have a half-finished oil painting in the garage, or you’ve not been to the gym in weeks, take advantage of your time off to catch up.
Plan some days out
If lounging around in front of Netflix with a box of chocolates is just not your thing, then plan some days out. This will take you out of your usual orbit, and give you a fresh perspective on any problems which have been bothering you. After all, travel broadens the mind, and makes you a more interesting teacher.
If you are super organised, you might even consider jetting off for a week or so somewhere distinctly sunnier than the damp and chilly UK.
If you really can’t switch off…
If you know that switching off is impossible, and the guilt and worry about not getting work-related stuff done will ruin your me-time anyway, maybe consider just getting the urgent tasks out of the way before the big day. However, pace yourself so that you have at least a few days’ break before the start of the new term.
Remember that by being refreshed and rested, you will be bringing your best self back to the classroom.
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