I never wanted to leave education. But I did have moments where I felt like I was barely getting through the week. I wasn’t burned out in the way people imagine it, but I was running low. I had to find ways to protect my time and my energy. Setting boundaries made all the difference.
Boundary One: I stopped answering emails after 6 p.m. The world didn’t end. I didn’t lose respect. I gained sleep.
Boundary Two: I took one prep period a week to leave campus. I sat in my car. I went for a walk. I let myself decompress. I returned to class more grounded.
Boundary Three: I stopped saying yes right away. When asked to lead another initiative, I said, “Let me think about it.” That sentence gave me space. It helped me choose how to give my energy.
These boundaries didn’t make me selfish. They helped me stay present. They gave me enough room to keep showing up fully.
Sustainability in education isn’t about being tough. It’s about being honest with yourself. Know your limits. Respect your energy. And model balance for your students too.
If you feel like you’re stretched thin, the Reset and Recovery Plan gives you tools and support to reset. You don’t have to do it alone.