1) Regular Breaks 

When you are at work and have a break with colleagues, how often do you talk about school? Take a mental break! Make a rule with your colleagues to talk about something else during that time to recharge and build community. We practice this with students—why not with each other?  

• According to AVID Critical Thinking and Engagement: A Schoolwide Approach, learning names and making connections are some of the most pressing needs to begin learning about each other and sharing about yourselves. A primary goal during relational capacity building is discovering shared similarities between community members. 

2) Social Connections 

This one is tough. It is easy to become consumed with the tasks and activities that the school year offers. How do you maintain a healthy balance between school and personal life? Call a friend on your way to or from school to keep that connection! It is also ok to go out on a school night! Try setting up a coffee date, dinner, or a fun activity with someone you haven’t seen in a while. Creating that balance will keep you fresh and engaged in the world around you, which benefits you and your students. Stay connected with friends, family members, and colleagues for support. 

3) Hobbies and Interests 

We know that hobbies and activities bring us joy and relaxation, but how do we bring that into the classroom or school environment? Consider a team-building activity with your peers to share your ways of relaxing. This is another great way to build relationships, share some laughs, and dare I say, have fun? There are many activities that would work for professional or full-staff meetings in AVID Critical Thinking and Engagement: A Schoolwide Approach. 

4) Goals and Celebrations 

Acknowledge and celebrate small achievements during the school year. A lesson plan went so well that you want to share it with others—how are you able to do this in your current environment? How can you start this if a system isn’t already in place? As educators, we grow stronger by leaning on each other and sharing ideas. Building relationships with your colleagues who know exactly what you are going through will allow you to grow your support network and feel better at the same time. Did you know that we even have an AVID Facebook Educators group that you can use to create social connections and build support? Check it out here. You are not alone in the work you are doing! 

5) Limiting Perfectionism  

This is the most important one that we all suffer from at one time or another (or always). Recognize that perfection is unattainable, and mistakes are a natural part of the learning process. We share this with students all the time, so why can’t we show ourselves the same grace? Strive for progress rather than perfection. Balancing career demands with self-care is essential for long-term success. You’ve got this, now go and be great!