Beyond Teaching

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Whether you've heard the phrase, listened to discussions about it, or experienced it firsthand, "teacher burnout" is no exaggeration. The statistics speak for themselves. Teachers leaving the profession is on the rise and this year, I was one of them. 

 

I always knew from a young age that I wanted to make a difference. I wanted to support the children that were in my care to feel valued, loved, safe and as a result, exceed in all areas of their lives and allow them to realise that they can really achieve anything that they want to in life. What some people don’t know is that teachers are much more than educators. They are mentors, role models, caregivers and counsellors who provide emotional and academic support, advocate for their students and inspire a love for learning. As a teacher, I wanted to be the best for my children in my care and as a result I wore so many hats yet, my own well-being tended to be overlooked and taken for granted. I am very open about my reasons for leaving. Not only did I feel undervalued, I received very little support and how I was didn’t seem to matter. As a result, it affected my personal life and well-being. 

 

Since making the decision to take care of myself, I’ve spoken with many teachers who share similar concerns about leaving the profession. They often say things like, "I don’t have the skills for other jobs" or "No one will hire me because I lack experience." In reflecting on my own journey, I’ve realised that teachers possess a wide range of valuable skills and talents that are highly transferable to other fields. There are many roles outside of traditional teaching that are both rewarding and supportive of your well-being. When I discovered Hygge, I knew it was a perfect fit for me. Their commitment to making a difference in children's lives aligns with the core of their approach. Their ethos fills a gap in the education system, they value you as an individual, recognising your skills and encouraging you to reach your full potential.

 

Words that I wish someone had told me:

 

Prioritising yourself and exploring new opportunities is not a sign of failure, but a courageous step towards finding a path that nurtures both your passion and your personal well-being. Remember, taking care of yourself ultimately allows you to give your best in any role you choose. I have finally found myself again and you can do the same! There is a vibrant world waiting for you beyond teaching. You have so many skills to help change and shape children’s lives for the better. Embrace this new chapter with the same passion and dedication you brought to your classroom. It's okay to feel uncertain - change can be daunting. Remember, every ending is just the beginning of something new and wonderful. Your skills, your compassion, and your resilience have prepared you for any path you choose. Believe in yourself and your journey, knowing that there are countless opportunities out there, each one ready to benefit from the unique strengths you carry. Keep moving forward and let your heart guide you to new adventures and fulfillments. Since working for Hygge, I have not looked back. My only regret is that I could have done it sooner. They have supported me in more ways than possible and see me for who I am. Not only that, I am able to give my best self for the children in my care. It has made me excited for life again.

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