The above graphic comes from an article at the Career Contessa website I suggest reading it as it has some amazing ideas. I would like to focus on a few, and how I plan to implement them as we enter into 2020.
Get Healthy - It is not lost on me that I am replaceable as an employee. If my health fails and I am no longer able to do my job, there will be another teacher to take my place. However, I am not replaceable to my family and friends. I need to see the importance of focusing on myself in regards to my health and well being. This includes not only physical health but mental as well. I have reflected a lot on this lately and have begun making goals for the coming year.
Creating a LINKEDIN Account - Honestly can't say I know very much about this one. It will take me some research but I am willing to give it a go.
Create a Portfolio Website - Seems like this might be something my creative side would enjoy.
Give your Company Handbook a Re-Read - I will have to get my hands on the employee handbook. I think this would actually be good. Just to make sure I am doing adhering to all protocols.
Confront a Fear - One of my biggest fears is that I won't be heard or that my voice lacks authority in my chosen profession. I will seek more opportunities to use my voice and speak about issues that I do have knowledge of.
Take a Vacation - This is so difficult to do as a teacher. We get boxed in to taking our vacation during the summer. However, we usually bank days and days of vacation time. The thought of taking a vacation is usually drowned out by the realization that we would have to prep for a sub. Subs are amazing! Don't get me wrong. We need more of these in our lives. The problem is the prep. It takes me approximately 3 to 4 hours to prepare for a sub. Also getting a sub is not the same as me being there to teach my students. I feel really conflicted with this one. Maybe taking a vacation means when you are actually on vacation that one should not spend time on anything related to work.
Read Industry Specific Books - I already have a TBR (to be read) pile of books about education, leadership, and the like. I already have plans to immerse myself in reading.
Take an Online Course - Uhmmm not right now. I totally believe in continuing education. Just right now it isn't on my top priorities.
Find a Mentor - YES!!!! Some of my greatest growth as an educator has come during times I sought counsel from mentors. If you haven't had a chance to work with a mentor, I highly recommend you do so.
Give Some Advice to Others - As professionals, we have value. We actually have the potential to enrich the lives of others or just lend a helping hand. Even better than finding a mentor is being a mentor. Seek out opportunities to guide or encourages those around you.
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