Self care for student publications advisers

I know you’re in the thick of getting that yearbook across the finish line and you’re probably feeling stressed, exhausted, worn-out, burnt-out, overwhelmed… just over it? 

It sounds counterintuitive when $h!+ just needs to get done… but you have to find ways to take breaks. Taking care of yourself is the best thing you can do during these crazy busy season so you can get back to work with a clear head. 

Here are a few ways to practice self-care over the next few weeks: 

  1. SET BOUNDARIES. Protect your peace by making sure you are setting healthy boundaries for your students and work/life balance. Leave at a reasonable time, don’t take work home as much as you possibly can, kick kids out during lunch/conference period, have designated work nights where students can stay after school, but limit it on the rest of the days so you can focus on what YOU need to do.
  2. IMPLEMENT BRAIN BREAKS. Do this for yourself and for the kids. Set a timer and when it goes off, everyone just stops. Right where they are, whatever they are doing. For 5 minutes just lay on the floor – no phone, no talking, lights off. You can even walk them through a quick meditation video from YouTube. (Chances are, yearbook isn’t the only thing stressing them out anyway with AP exams, prom planning, their other classes and relationships, etc… so this forced break is probably much appreciated!)
  3. PAY ATTENTION TO YOUR ON PHYSICAL HEALTH. Indulging in treats during a stressy time is (of course!) natural… and I encourage it! But try to bring healthy pre-prepped snacks so you’re not tempted to binge on chips and sweets all the time. I tend to run through a drive-thru for caffeine or quick dinner on the hard days if I haven’t planned ahead of time… which usually makes me feel more sluggish than before. Also, make sure you’re getting enough sleep so you’re able to start the day fresh and recharged.
  4. CONNECT WITH PEOPLE WHO GET IT. Reach out to other advisers who understand where you’re at. Utilize the journalism Facebook groups or your local colleagues to vent, ask for help, or just unwind together for a quick bite after school.
  5. DO THINGS YOU ENJOY. Deadline season tends to takeover everything else, but intentionally take the time to do your hobbies, spend time with your family and friends (but no talking about work allowed!)

Remember – this yearbook WILL get done. You WILL survive. Your student body will love it, and sweet, sweet summer is just around the corner. It’s time to let that perfectionism go (I know, easier said than done) and just hit that submit button.

Again – YOU. GOT. THIS. Promise.

Drop a comment

More posts