John Hattie in "Visible Learning for Teachers" talks about inspired teaching and teachers and quotes Steele who said, "These teachers are firmly convinced that they are responsible for student learning and consistently bend their efforts toward doing a better job every day." This really struck a chord with me as I reflected on a past professional challenge which had nearly zapped all my teaching mojo out of me. Looking back I think the main thing I need to take from it, if I am ever in the same situation, is that you have to continue to believe your actions can still make a positive difference.
My checklist for teachers struggling with their teaching mojo is:
1. Always believe that you can be an agent for positive change, and act accordingly.
2. Take time to look after yourself, physically and mentally.
3. Make time to get outside and look up at the sky (Thanks to Lottie for this advice.)
4. Find people who you can trust to talk to about things, preferably from outside your work environment as it might help you to put things in perspective.
5. Try out new things in your leisure time, especially to remind yourself that teaching does not define you.
6. If you are feeling overwhelmed, focus on one small positive step at a time.
7. Exercise is really important: you'll reset your stress hormone levels and sleep better.
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