Why are we so shattered by the weekend? Spoiler: It’s not just the marking pile. It’s something far more draining.
Let’s talk about the real reason so many teachers are running on fumes by Fridayevening. Most people think it’s all down to the workload—planning lessons, marking books, attending meetings. Sure, that’s part of it. But the thing no one talks about? It’s the constant need to be on.
The Problem With This Belief
This idea that it’s “just the workload” comes from how visible those tasks are. People see the lesson plans, the reports, the piles of marking. What they don’t see are the hundreds of interactions you’re juggling every single day—each one chipping away at your mental energy.
And the result? Teachers push themselves harder, thinking they just need to “get better” at time management, without addressing what’s really draining them: the fact
that there’s barely a second in the day to switch off.
Here’s what this looks like in real life:
- The Morning Hustle: You walk into school and before you even reach your classroom, you’ve answered three questions and solved a mini-crisis.
- Non-Stop Days: You’re juggling student questions, playground disputes, and meetings during your “free” period.
- Evenings at Home: You want to give your kids and partner the best of you, but sometimes there’s nothing left in the tank. And the guilt? That’s the cherry on top.
Why This Belief Is Flawed
The real issue isn’t just the workload—it’s the lack of breathing space. Constantly being “on” takes an enormous mental toll, even more so when there’s no time to recharge during the day. It’s like running a marathon without ever stopping for water.
I’ve been there: coming home completely drained, trying to listen to my kids’ stories from their day but realising I wasn’t really present. It’s heartbreaking to feel like you’re giving your family the leftovers of your energy.
Research backs this up too. A study on teacher well-being found that non-stop interactions trigger your brain’s stress response over and over again. Without space to recover, it’s no wonder we’re completely spent by the weekend.
How to Shift From “Old” to “New”
To break free from this pattern, you need to reclaim moments of quiet and set boundaries. Here’s how:
- Start Small with Micro-Breaks: Take just five minutes between lessons or during lunch to sit quietly, close your eyes, or step outside. It’s amazing how much this can reset your mind.
- Create an After-School Reset: Before you walk through the door at home, take 10 minutes to decompress—whether it’s a short walk, sitting in the car, or listening to something calming.
- Be Honest with Your Family: Let them know you need a few minutes to yourself when you get home. Kids and partners are more understanding than we give them credit for when we communicate our needs.
These small shifts aren’t about adding to your to-do list, they’re about protecting your energy so you can be present for the people who matter most. Imagine walking through the door and actually feeling excited to hear about your kids’ day. That’s the future we’re working towards.
Why the “Old” Belief Needs to Go
The old idea that it’s just “too much work” is falling apart because teachers are finally calling it what it is: emotional and mental overload.
- Reason 01: We’re starting to prioritise well-being as much as productivity.
- Reason 02: Studies show that energy management is just as crucial as time management for
long-term success. - Reason 03: Teachers are realising that self-care isn’t selfish, it’s the key to being better for yourself and those you care about.
Let’s stop normalising burnout as part of the job. The future of teaching is sustainable, balanced, and energised. And it starts with recognising that protecting your energy is just as important as managing your time. You can’t pour from an empty cup, and honestly? Your family, your students, and you deserve better.
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