1. The Performance of Others is Not a Mirror of Your Effort
The system by which teachers are measured is far from perfect. Its imperfections are finally getting noticed by the Secretary of Education, but that doesn't mean the system is fixed yet- or even close to it.
The problem: You have a class of students with widely diverse abilities. You work your hardest to help them achieve and improve, but they don't score as well on tests- especially standardizes tests- as you'd hope.
The solution: While standardized tests are important to some, teachers know they can't control the exact outcome. Try your best to help students improve, but in the end, you can't take full responsibility for their scores -even the good ones. Be satisfied in knowing you tried hard to help students take steps toward improvement.
2. Only Exert and Expect Control in Your Environment
The school walls, and more particular, your classroom, create a micro environment of the real world. The problem is your students don't spend all their waking hours under your control or influence. Once they leave the room and later the school building, they come in contact with outside factors that change their mood, their habits, and even their learning process.
The problem: Your students just won't behave and are pushing your buttons to see what happens. Students that misbehave aren't necessary acting out on you. They may be reacting to trouble at home, trouble with peers, or some deeper personal issues.
The solution: Control what you can when you can and don't take it personally every single time students act out. Try to get to the bottom of what's really causing the behavior. More likely than not, the behavior is not stemming from something you've done, so don't blame yourself. Get your counselor or school psychologist involved if you need to.
3. Don't Let the Mood of Others Bring You Down
The school environment is unique. It's not like desk jobs where tons of colleagues sit in the same room. Hours may go by without seeing another adult when you're a teacher. So when you do see another adult, have a bad interaction and leave it unresolved, it can fester all day or week.
The problem: Adults on the job can have a bad attitude or are negative about your performance. Whether it's a co-teacher or principal, adults can be just as cruel (or worse) than kids.
The solution: If you just taught a great lesson and are feeling good, but then bump into someone who tries to bring you down, don't give them the satisfaction. One positive person can do wonders for the work environment. Remember this: The bad moods of others are more about them than they are about you.
4. Remain Confident
A successful teacher is a confident person. They know their subject matter, they know their lesson, and they deliver it in a believable way. Maintaining confidence at the head of the classroom is key for teachers.
The problem: Students, teachers, or even parents can whittle away and make teachers second guess their actions.
The solution: As long as you carefully and thoughtfully teach, stand behind your work. Back up your actions to others with sound reason and calm responses. If others see you remaining confident about your job, they'll know you take it seriously and can't be shaken easily.
5. Don't Read Into Things
Teachers communicate all day with students, co-workers and parents. This communication may take place through email, phone calls, or even paper notes.
The problem: Teachers are always thinking about things, sometimes too much. Don't add extra words or tone that isn't in correspondence.
The solution: Take things at face value. If you don't understand the point someone is trying to make, ask for clarification. Don't assume anything.
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