In this digital age it is easy to be switched on to work every minute of everyday. This week’s tip is to ensure that you switch off entirely at least one evening a week.

Switching off entirely means no pinteresting, tweeting, facebook posts or blog reading that is related to work in any way.

Mental health and work life balance for teachers is exceptionally important. There are usually no breaks during the day and we are expected to keep working until the job is done and if we are honest with ourselves it is never done. This is why it is so important to consciously switch off from work to keep the balance.

5 Tips to switch off

1. Switch off from social media one evening a week

With many teachers following blogs through facebook, instagram, pinterest etc it is easy for work to creep into the most of your feeds. Soon enough we see an idea that we like and we are working again. Alternatively to switching off from social media have accounts that are for personal and for work, this way you can intentionally look for work ideas and can be removed from them when you wish to be. 

2. Participate in a hobby or interest activity once a week. 

This year I started dancing to meet people and to expand my interests. Having a place to go to at least once a week that was completely separate from my work has definitely helped maintain my mental health this year.

For you this might simply be vegging out and watching tv ,  reading a book, talking to friends or your partner.

3. Go to bed early

Getting a good nights sleep can be the best way to switch off and the benefit that you wake feeling refreshed and more positive the next day are worth it.

4. Catch up on the mundane

Teachers have plenty on their minds, worrying about what they are going to do in their next lesson, that students and many other things all at the same time.

Ensuring that you are on top of those more mundane tasks like housework and bills can help to manage your stress levels and help you switch off from more than just work when you wish to.

5. Exercise

Sometimes it can be hard to switch off the mind even when we want to. Exercise can help to clear the mind and give perspective as well as those other health benefits.

Do you switch off once a week? Share in the comments below how you do it or comment on our facebook page.