A TEACHERble Moment

Your work will undeniably find its place in the comfort of your home. You’ve stepped through the door, and even if your words haven’t yet described your day, remember that you communicate in a second language—body language. Your expression speaks volumes about your day, and a simple gesture can reveal everything.

At work, you and your work bestie confidently exchange the latest news from your home life. You proudly celebrate your kid’s achievements, share what you cooked for dinner, and showcase a picture or two from your phone’s gallery capturing special moments with your family.

These two worlds are destined to collide, and I know how to create space for both. Throughout my career, balancing home and work has proven to me both can coexist harmoniously.

Being a teacher is an incredible opportunity. I am passionate about my role in education and the work in which I do. While it is indeed a demanding job, I embrace the challenge. Planning as a teacher requires a lot of time; creating rigorous and stimulating lessons takes deep thought and preparation. Fifty-five minutes is often insufficient for such an important task, which sometimes leads to work spilling over into our personal time. Naturally, we share our experiences and concerns at home. Just imagine how different things would be if we didn’t!

Home life is a time to unwind and recharge. While you may find moments of relaxation at work, nothing compares to the freedom that comes with being at home. Here, it’s all about nourishing food, loving family, and the sense of freedom that allows you to truly be yourself.

Separating the two can be challenging, but I decide to blend these two aspects on my own terms. Some days, I bring work home, while other days, I completely switch off. Although thoughts of work linger, the intensity is manageable. At home, I simply embrace being Erykah, not just Miss Gray. I allocate an hour or two to work-related tasks, and then I savor my time at home, with family, friends, and myself.

Off the clock means exactly that.

At home, I create space to disconnect and regroup for the next work challenge.

Balancing work life and home life is entirely within your control. Give yourself the grace you deserve as you bridge both worlds. Trust your instincts; you know exactly what to do!

Today’s Homework:

Brainstorm how you can make home and work, work. Study and apply the results.