Keeping Your Sanity in the School Year (Yes, It’s Possible)
I don’t know about you, but I can feel the shift happening. The sun is sticking around longer, the weather in Warsaw is finally cooperating (mostly), and I’m actually taking my micro-breaks outside instead of hiding in my classroom like a hermit. Spring is coming, which means we’re in that sweet spot before #SpringBreak—where we’re pushing hard, but the light at the end of the tunnel is getting brighter.
That’s exactly why I want to talk about #VitalityInvestments—those small, intentional efforts we can make now so we don’t crawl into spring break running on fumes.
The School Year Has A Rhythm—Let’s Work With It
School operates in predictable cycles—semesters, quarters, the occasional random half-day that throws everything off. Instead of just letting them dictate our stress levels, what if we used that structure to infuse energy back into our routines? Instead of saving rest and recovery for the summer, we can build it into the rhythm of every day and week.
Daily, Weekly, and Semester-Level Sanity Hacks
Here’s what this could look like (and what I’m trying to do myself):
- Daily Micro Breaks: Take five minutes outside (yes, outside—even if it’s just in the parking lot). Breathe, move, reset. Bonus points if you leave your phone behind.
- Weekly Check Ins: Whether it’s with your team, your spouse, or your dog—take a few minutes to check in on how you’re actually doing, not just how work is going.
- Semester Focus: Pick one area to invest in—your health, a new skill, or just getting through the next few weeks with your sense of humor intact.
The Key? Consistency (Not Perfection)
This isn’t about adding more to your plate—it’s about shifting your mindset to prioritize vitality within the structure that already exists. The goal is to make small but sustainable changes that keep you thriving, not just surviving.
And here’s the best part—when we do this, our students notice. They see us modeling what it looks like to have balance, to invest in our own well-being, and to approach challenges with energy instead of exhaustion.
What’s One Thing You Can Do Before Spring Break?
So here’s my challenge for you: What’s one small change you can make before spring break to fuel your energy instead of just burning it? Maybe it’s taking a real lunch break instead of answering emails. Maybe it’s moving a meeting outside. Maybe it’s just saying no to one thing that drains you.
Whatever it is, I’d love to hear what you’re thinking. If you want to chat about this (or just need a reminder that you’re not alone in this crazy school year), let’s talk. Grab a time that works for you:
