To all those who lead schools….
I hope this message finds you well. As school leaders, we often find ourselves wearing many hats, juggling countless responsibilities, and striving to make a positive impact on the lives of our pupils and colleagues. Whilst it's a rewarding and fantastic path, it can also be incredibly demanding on our mental health and wellbeing.
I've been in your shoes, and I understand what it’s like to be a school leader. That's why we do what we do here at HeadteacherChat. We are dedicated to looking after you and volunteer much of our time doing just that.
Sometimes life can be more of a struggle. The combination of work life and family life can feel overwhelming at times, and so I wanted to share some personal insights with you into how to take care of your mental health and wellbeing, both at home and at school.
Looking after your wellbeing at home:
Let's start with home, the place where we should feel most comfortable and relaxed. It can be all too easy for the demands of school leadership to spill over into our personal lives. Here are a few tips to help you maintain a healthy work-life balance:
Prioritise Self-Care:
Self-care is not a luxury; it's a necessity. Find activities that bring you joy and relaxation, whether it's reading a book, going for a run, or simply enjoying a quiet cup of tea. These moments of self-indulgence can do wonders for your wellbeing.
Set a good routine for your day:
Begin your day with a positive routine. It could be meditation, a nutritious breakfast, or simply taking a moment to set your intentions for the day. Starting your day on a positive note can set the tone for what follows.
Incorporate regular exercise into your routine. Even a short daily workout can do wonders for your mental and physical health. It's a powerful stress reliever.
Create an evening routine that helps you unwind. Avoid screens before bedtime, read a book, or practice relaxation techniques like deep breathing to ensure a restful night's sleep.
Prioritise sleep:
Sleep is a time when your body and mind undergo essential processes of repair and rejuvenation. It allows your muscles to recover, your immune system to strengthen, and your brain to consolidate memories.Try to get a good bedtime routine set up so that you can get a good sleep.
Meditation and Mindfulness:
Dedicate time to meditation or mindfulness exercises. These practices can help you relax, reduce stress, and improve your overall mental well-being.
Pursue Hobbies:
Reconnect with hobbies you're passionate about. Whether it's painting, playing a musical instrument, gardening, or crafting, hobbies provide a sense of accomplishment and joy.
Reading:
Reading is not only a great escape but also a form of self-care. Dive into a good book and let your mind wander into different worlds and perspectives.
Nature Walks:
(Our favourite!) If possible, take leisurely walks in nature. The fresh air, green surroundings, and the tranquility of nature can be incredibly soothing.
Stay connected to your friends and family:
No matter how demanding your role is, your friends and family are more important. Make sure you reach out to them as often as you can, even if it's just a virtual chat.
At School:
The demands of your school day can be relentless, but with a few practices, you can help keep stress at bay:
Ask for help:
Remember, you don't have to do it all by yourself. Delegate tasks to your team members, trust in their abilities, and give them room to shine. This not only eases your workload but also fosters a sense of teamwork.
Embrace Regular Breaks:
It's tempting to work through lunch or stay late, but regular breaks are essential. Take short walks, step outside for some fresh air, or simply close your eyes and breathe deeply for a few minutes. These moments of respite can re-energise you and improve your focus.
Lean on Your Support Network:
Being a school leader can sometimes feel isolating, and often people don’t understand what you are going through. Use the opportunity to talk to others who do the same role as often as you can. Go to networking events, join groups such as ours, as it will give you the chance to talk to people who really understand.
Share ideas, vent your frustrations, and seek advice when needed. Knowing you're not alone can be reassuring.
There is always someone who can help if you are struggling. The NHS have many services that you can tap into for when it gets too much:
NHS Every Mind Matters
This website provides tips and resources for maintaining good mental health.
https://www.nhs.uk/oneyou/every-mind-matters/
NHS Mental Health Helplines
Helplines are available for different mental health concerns. Don't hesitate to reach out if you need someone to talk to.
https://www.nhs.uk/conditions/stress-anxiety-depression/mental-health-helplines/
Remember, it's not selfish to prioritise your wellbeing. In fact, it's essential. By taking care of yourself, you'll be better equipped to support your team, your students, and your school.
Wishing you all the best, Lucy
Found this helpful? Read our other blog:
Resources to support wellbeing of headteachers and teaching staff
https://www.headteacherchat.com/blogs/resources-to-support-wellbeing-of-headteachers-and-teaching-staff-ngiru
To discuss this post in our HeadteacherChat Circle on Edoocoo go to:
https://www.edoocoo.com/post/4462