Every teacher is alike in that they often prioritize their students over themselves on a regular basis. While this certainly proves that they’re excellent teachers, without giving themselves enough attention this propensity to give may quickly lead to burnout. Often times, acquiring a support system of your peers can be invaluable to your self-care. This doesn’t have to be a group of teachers from the same school either. Cultivating this community can involve seeking mentorship or guidance from other teachers or participating in professional development opportunities that connect you with others in your field. Building relationships with other teachers can help you feel less isolated and provide valuable insights and strategies for managing the demands of your job. Even something as simple as having someone to relate to when it comes to these professional woes can go a long way. That said, self-care is often an individually driven practice, so finding methods that work for you is important. Journaling is a great way to practice self-reflection. It’s an opportunity to take stock of your needs, feelings, goals and accomplishments. Setting aside five to 10 minutes every day to identify and reflect on your feelings can go a long way, especially prior to consulting with peers. For more information on how to practice self-care in a successful way, please see the infographic coupled alongside this post.