2 answers
Madison
Student
Columbia, Missouri
1
Question
Asked
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What advice would you give to a first-year K-5th teacher when it comes to work-life balance?
I am a junior in college studying elementary education and I'm student teaching next year! I am very excited to become a teacher but I am worried about my first year when it comes to work-life balance. I would love any insights/advice from professionals in the field!
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2 answers
Siva Kann
VP of Products & Technology
31
Answers
Cincinnati, Ohio
Updated
Siva’s Answer
Hello Madison,
Congratulations on choosing teaching, it truly is a meaningful and impactful profession.
I really like the advice already shared, especially around bonding with students and taking care of your energy. I want to add one important perspective that many new teachers don’t hear early enough:
In teaching, especially in your first few years, “work-life balance” is not about equal time "it’s about aligned priorities".
Teaching young children requires a lot of emotional energy, patience, creativity, and presence. Some days, work will take more from you than you expected. That doesn’t mean you are doing it wrong, it means you are doing something that matters.
Instead of chasing a perfect balance, focus on integration:
- Align your routines, habits, and personal life with your passion for teaching.
- Build systems early (lesson planning routines, boundaries on prep time, simple organization habits).
- Accept that your first year is a learning year, not a “perfect balance” year.
When your work aligns with your strengths and values, it won’t always feel like “WORK”. It will feel challenging, but also purposeful. And purpose sustains you far longer than balance ever can. Most importantly, protect your energy, not just your time. Sleep, movement, reflection, and doing small things you enjoy are not optional, they are part of being a good teacher.
Teaching isn’t a job you switch off from easily, but when it’s aligned with who you are, it can be deeply fulfilling and sustainable.
Wishing you a powerful and joyful start to your journey.
- Siva.
Congratulations on choosing teaching, it truly is a meaningful and impactful profession.
I really like the advice already shared, especially around bonding with students and taking care of your energy. I want to add one important perspective that many new teachers don’t hear early enough:
In teaching, especially in your first few years, “work-life balance” is not about equal time "it’s about aligned priorities".
Teaching young children requires a lot of emotional energy, patience, creativity, and presence. Some days, work will take more from you than you expected. That doesn’t mean you are doing it wrong, it means you are doing something that matters.
Instead of chasing a perfect balance, focus on integration:
- Align your routines, habits, and personal life with your passion for teaching.
- Build systems early (lesson planning routines, boundaries on prep time, simple organization habits).
- Accept that your first year is a learning year, not a “perfect balance” year.
When your work aligns with your strengths and values, it won’t always feel like “WORK”. It will feel challenging, but also purposeful. And purpose sustains you far longer than balance ever can. Most importantly, protect your energy, not just your time. Sleep, movement, reflection, and doing small things you enjoy are not optional, they are part of being a good teacher.
Teaching isn’t a job you switch off from easily, but when it’s aligned with who you are, it can be deeply fulfilling and sustainable.
Wishing you a powerful and joyful start to your journey.
- Siva.
A Chitra
3
Answers
Bengaluru, Karnataka, India
Updated
A’s Answer
Dear Learner,
Congratulations on your choice to become a Teacher - a very noble profession. As a teacher you will have the opportunity to get to meet, teach and learn from learners from all walks of life. As a new teacher, focus initially on developing a good bonding with your students for it will make them more receptive to your teaching. Give ample time to yourself to relax and indulge in some physical activity, for your students will always love to see their teacher to be high on energy. Do indulge in your passion in your off hours to keep yourself motivated. And it might be a good idea to read some books on teaching and learner psychology which will make your teaching journey more interesting and motivating!
Congratulations on your choice to become a Teacher - a very noble profession. As a teacher you will have the opportunity to get to meet, teach and learn from learners from all walks of life. As a new teacher, focus initially on developing a good bonding with your students for it will make them more receptive to your teaching. Give ample time to yourself to relax and indulge in some physical activity, for your students will always love to see their teacher to be high on energy. Do indulge in your passion in your off hours to keep yourself motivated. And it might be a good idea to read some books on teaching and learner psychology which will make your teaching journey more interesting and motivating!