It took me so long to thrive as a high school teacher because I approached my work in the wrong way. I believed that if I was more efficient with my time, I could juggle it all. And while organizing your day can offer some relief, it’s not the ultimate solution because it doesn’t address the root of the stress.

To get to the root of stress, we need to think beyond the clock, exploring strategies that empower you to manage your time and reveal a level of resilience that time blocks alone can’t provide.

ENERGY AND YOUR THOUGHTS:

You have thousands of thoughts a day, and when they’re bogged down by worries or self-criticism, it’s easy to blame our willpower (why can’t I just stop worrying?!), but the real conductor behind this energy drain isn’t our will—it’s our nervous system.

Yes, you read that right. Our nervous system, not our mindset, plays a pivotal role, and accepting this can be a game changer for how we approach our energy management. This isn’t about forcing our mind to be more positive or pushing through exhaustion; it’s about starting with the foundation of our being: our body.
 

ENERGY AND THE ENVIRONMENT:

To continue being our best at work and in life, we have to step outside the exhausting cycle that’s reinforced through various systems of oppression (ahem, diet culture) and prioritize understanding and supporting our nervous system. Here’s why: When our nervous system is in harmony, our thoughts align more positively, and our energy levels start to thrive naturally. It’s like discovering a hidden well within we never knew we had.
 

SO, HOW DO WE START?

Begin with integrating small, body-first self-care practices into your daily routine. Think gentle movements, mindful breathing, and nutritious foods that nourish both body and brain. It’s not a major overhaul overnight but adopting tiny habits that signal to your nervous system, “Hey, I’ve got you.”

Your ability to continue to perform like that badass you are doesn’t start with sheer willpower. It grows from understanding and nurturing your body’s needs.