Balancing Teaching and Life

[@lindal985]

Once, a fellow teacher saw me taking large amounts of work home every weekend . She then asked me, "Do you bring your laundry to school? " I so totally understood what she meant. So my teachers out there, listen to the wise words from Miss Mae.

[@amberwilson3293]

😆😆😆😆

[@jemmaseen4176]

Excellent advice. It's very hard that this job is never done, that's an unsettling feeling that you have to literally let go of daily no matter how long you've taught! But it's so crucial to take care of yourself or you'll burn yourself out like you said.

[@CJReynolds]

TRUTH!!!! 😄 to be in it for the long haul you need to take care of yourself and set those boundaries! I throw stuff in the abyss or the recycling bin and my wife used to yell at me 😂 but seriously sometimes we can't get it all done!!! Teaching could take over your life if you let it. It's a never ending job!!

[@LataArtist]

Thanks for the reminders. I am still working on that separation of work time from at home time, it takes a lot of planning and mental stamina but I will get there. Good luck to all teachers this school year!

[@CoolCraftyCreations]

I'm currently a case manager for the developmentally disabled. So, with that, I get the whole parents constantly calling or asking for things. Meetings after meetings etc., blah, blah, blah. Nobody gets my cell phone number, emails are answered in the succession they are received, and then I'm shutting it down. Two words for me, FOCUS, and BALANCE. I never stay late, but I will come in early, only to sip my coffee, and look at emails until my start time

[@BGeorge1927]

Im glad I came across this video! I start a TA position in the fall. I am a single mother at home so i definitely wanted to research tips for work-life balance. I know i will thrive as a TA. 🎉

[@0411ACE01]

The old Miss May is me now! Lolol I have to stop lol

[@OneFABTeacher]

Nooooooooo!!!! LOL Yes, please stop! ((HUGS))

[@0411ACE01]

Miss May...I watched the video again and I'm happy to report that I am less of the old Miss May and more of the new Miss May. I did not bring my tote home this weekend! Lol

[@cocobabers]

Ms. May, Thank you so much for everything that you share and do for your Fellow Teachers! I truly and completely appreciate you for all of your knowledge, advice and care. I have been so stressed as an official teacher as I started out substitute teaching and I can honestly say that you have made me identify key areas of where to start to put my classroom together. Your videos help me to figure out what works for me and I LOVE IT! THANK YOU & MUCH LOVE! 🤍✨💎🌺👩🏽‍🏫❤️

[@OneFABTeacher]

You are sooooo very welcome. I'm sending you many ((Hugs)) 💛💛

[@claudiawashington2917]

I don't have children either and my students r my WORLD. However I looooove my Mum and Sister and so I can't wait to go home.

[@margotjones697]

Why didn't I see this last year?! I was that first year teacher who tried to grade every single problem on every single assignment for 143 students. Finally, I was given some similar words of wisdom from a veteran or "seasoned" teacher (as she preferred to be called). Thanks for this video! I will approach this year differently. I WANT A LIFE TOO! :)

[@OneFABTeacher]

Yes!!! We must have a life too!! ((HUGS))

[@ndavis22222]

I watch this video at the beginning of EVERY school year just as reminder to myself, not to revert back to the old miss May. THANK YOU THANK YOU THANK YOU for being real and transparent. You've helped me be a better teacher and person. I thank and praise God for you!

[@melanierafael1745]

THANK YOU! I work with a co teacher who works 7 days a week and still working at 11:45pm. NOT. ME. Trying to find a nice way to let her know.

[@OneFABTeacher]

NO ME EITHER. Not worth it. We have to protect our peace. I do think some just thrive on staying busy like that and possibly want validation for it. NOT this lady. My peace is too important. ((HUGS))

[@mamaruth2089]

I just love you. Thank you so very much

[@OneFABTeacher]

You are so welcome! Love you, back! ((HUGS))

[@Teach329]

I am a new subscriber. I am enjoying your videos. I have been teaching 24 years and in a few weeks I will begin my 25th year. It took me years to figure out how to balance both. I lost my husband because I was a fool about my teaching responsibilities. Not knowing when to cut off my school work. This is a great video and it is so true. You need me and family time. Thanks for your videos!

[@lauracantahimnos]

You are a blessing for me. Thanks for all your videos. I'm a student teacher and in my teacher practice I did not establish my boundaries and I did not have time for me, for my parents and even to God. It was horrible. Right now I want to be a teacher that has a balanced life. I cannot sacrifice my time with God and my family anymore. Thanks for all your tips. Blessings from Puerto Rico ❤

[@javinebaez9158]

Oh Miss May, no truer words have been said!! I too have been just like u, toting stuff to and from work & spending too many hours at school. My family was feeling the impact & finally I said, "what am I doing??" Now I stay two days a week late & whatever doesn't get done, oh well!! The main things my firsties need to know are always done & they end the year knowing all I've taught. As teachers we need to learn to not be so critical of ourselves & coworkers. If we don't take time to count the blessings then we're the ones who lose out!! This year I'm focusing on myself & family & keeping away from the negative nellies. Life's to short not to appreciate what u have. Many Blessings Miss May :)

[@dreamsinoverdrive3408]

Thank you so much for prying that guilt monster off this new teacher’s back, Miss May!! I am still learning so much and I don’t want to fail my kids. But I am also learning that not taking care of yourself IS failing your kids bc you can’t be the best version of yourself when you are burnt out. Be blessed and have a great rest of the school year!!

[@vjules6135]

Thank you for this Ms. May! As a wife, mom of two and a future teacher I am always wondering how I will be able to find that work life balance. This video helps! I need every little bit of help to save my sanity! 😊 Looking forward to your classroom management tips!

[@janethmata3679]

Thank you so much 💕God bless you

[@OneFABTeacher]

You are so welcome! God bless! ((HUGS))😉

[@ReneePaull-gw3hy]

Thank you thank you❤❤

[@OneFABTeacher]

(((HUGS))

[@mrs.patino3625]

The remind app has office hours and if a parent texts you after the hours you indicated it will pop up an automated message that's it's after hours. They catch on! Lol

[@OneFABTeacher]

That's why I LOVE Remind! I never put on office hours but realized I must. I have to take care of Miss May. ((Hugs))

[@ameliagentes2406]

Just about to start year three of teaching (during this pandemic, no less). Wish I had seen this video at the start of my first year! Balance is so important and I always felt so guilty for not taking things home every night and would come in early or stay late to make up for it. But I love this, you're so right: "If it doesn't get done, it doesn't get done." I loved how you kept emphasizing that point because it's SO true but takes forever to truly STICK in our heads. I kind of like it better than my previous mantra "I'll do my best," because I think in my head I associated 'my best' with 200% effort that isn't realistic. I can still do my best, BUT during work time. If I'm doing my best and it doesn't get done during the times I've allotted for work then---well, it DOESN'T GET DONE--And that's okay :) Thank you so much for this video! I really needed it.

[@terihopkins5300]

Great topic!! After 4 years I have just realized this.I have to start leaving that tote bag at school too.I can't wait for the classroom management videos. I need all the help I can get!!! Thank You!

[@OneFABTeacher]

LEAVE THAT TOTE at school! :) It's okay. Thank you for your comment and kindness!((HUGS))

[@erikarefined]

Thank you for this video, so honest!!! I just started teaching 1st grade, you've become my online mentor teacher 💚 I'll be binge-watching your videos this weekend!

[@yuipacis3861]

Every time when you say it’s okay, I feel better. Thank you! I am doing student teaching now. It’s been really hard and makes me stressing out, but your video builds my confidence that I can do it! Thank you!

[@JN-go2yq]

And here I am listening to this awesome talk while doing planning at 12.49am ready for the start of the term in 4 days time.

[@OneFABTeacher]

No, no, no!! Take care of you! It doesn’t all get done. ((Hugs))

[@kellyindeedpositive9197]

fantastic video filled with great advice!!! "It doesn't all get all done"....something I told myself for years before believing it. You have to have that work/life balance to keep yourself sane and healthy. This video is awesome!

[@OneFABTeacher]

Thank you so much! It took me a long time to believe this too. So glad that I did. ((HUGS)) and Blessings to you!

[@NuB82]

Yes indeed. Balance is truly necessary. Thanks for sharing (hugs). Have a great week! (Our Spring Break is ending. We return to school on tomorrow. :-/ ). Lol @ getting mad at leaving at 3:30pm. lolololol.

[@MelissaJMJ]

Thank you 🙏

[@OneFABTeacher]

You bet! ((HUGS))

[@mrs.maestra173]

Amen!!!

[@joannecaletrio1341]

Oh Miss May you are such a help and inspiration. I have been teaching for 27 years and fekt like Iwas getting into a rut getting in early and staying late and never getting things finished. I have discovered your channel during my summer holidays and have got some great ideas. I'm actually looking forward to the new school year! Thank you so much.

[@OneFABTeacher]

+Joanne Caletrio awwww...you're going to have a FAB year!! (( HUGS ))

[@jessicamiller4860]

Thank you for this Ms. May! I am a new mom and going back in a few weeks I've been thinking about how late I've always stayed & how much work I've put into teaching. I am 100% "the old Ms. May" & still have to learn to shut it off in the evenings!

[@OneFABTeacher]

SHUT IT OFF!! It doesn't all get done anyway. I've learned to be okay with that. Blessings to you this school year and remember to take care of YOU first. ((HUGS))

[@tiwanwilliams5342]

I love your videos! They motivate me so much! Thank you!

[@martinaarcher921]

So true! I love your videos!!!

[@OneFABTeacher]

Thank you so much!!! ((Hugs))

[@stephaniehenry6026]

I wish I would have seen this video when you posted it, but I am blessed and so glad that I did today. It's going to be a new Mrs. Henry next year. I love all of your videos. I am finishing up my degree in elementary education in January, but have worked for the past six years as a music teacher and since January as a paraprofessional at my local high school in Special Ed. I love, love, LOVE, my job, but I am one tired cookie. Ain't no tired like teacher tired. I am a mom of four young children and a wife to my husband of 20 years, so I need to learn how to balance my work life and family life and my ME time. I give a lot, but I need to remember to let go of some things and not sweat the small stuff. I need to fill my bucket once in a while. Just yesterday I told the teacher I work with and for, that I need to do better at managing my time wisely, not that I waste it, but I need to prioritize and balance a bit better. I am so glad that you said to have designated days to go in early and designated days to stay late, but not both in one day. Also, I am blessed to have watched your, teach with grace, not perfection, video. I love you and what these videos are teaching me. God bless you! You are AMAZING!! Love from Arizona.

[@OneFABTeacher]

+Stephanie Henry thank you so much for this comment. Yes, it's important to realize that YOU are just as important. Kudos to you to being a mommy and wife and an amazing teacher. So glad you could get something from this. YOU ROCK!! ((Hugs)) and Blessings

[@ozazure]

I'm starting my first year of teaching in 3 weeks and this is great advice I hope to implement! I am 41 and have my own kids and have been home with them until now and I want this transition to be positive for us all. I know I will be a better teacher if I am happy/content with what's happening at home. Life experience has taught me that things are never all done. As long as you can prioritise and be productive you can hold your head up high.

[@OneFABTeacher]

The struggle was real trying to keep work at work but I do make sure I'm not taking a lot of stuff home with me. We need a life outside of work. Many blessings in your teaching journey. ((Hugs))

[@nausheenasif8187]

this was So important for you to make this video thank you! every new teacher and every teacher needs to watch!, i am writing and going to try and remember this during my first year this year. thank you

[@OneFABTeacher]

+Nausheen Asif you're very welcome! ((Hugs))

[@andrasn5]

“Be led by grace.” Ahhh what wonderful advice! Amen. Thanks so much!❤️😊

[@OneFABTeacher]

Thank you for watching. ((HUGS))

[@shkendragentle660]

Love this! I’m a teacher in Dallas. This is so true! This is my 10th year teaching and it took time to get to this point! But thank God I did because it will drive you nuts! Thanks for this video!

[@OneFABTeacher]

It's not worth it! Our health and mental state is too important. Thank you for watching! ((HUGS))

[@jordanloomis4706]

I love your videos! I start school in August and I am SO excited. Although I definitely worry about being good enough, and being able to do it all. I hear a lot of teachers going in 30 minutes early and staying 1-3 hours late every night. I love hearing your perspective.

[@OneFABTeacher]

Nobody has time for that! Do what you can and do it to the BEST of your ability. You will be just fine. YES you will be FAB enough! ((HUGS)) and Blessings

[@cmartnez1]

Thank you for such a wonderful video. It truly is a breath of fresh air to hear this!

[@OneFABTeacher]

Thank you so much Catherine. So glad you enjoyed. Thank you for your kindness. Have a FAB week! ((HUGS))

[@claudiawashington2917]

Hi Ms. MAY. Thanks u so much u r a Sweetheart. My Principal and other teachers gossiped about me going home after school bell rang

[@Dani-sb2eq]

Thank you so much for posting this! I am a new first grade teacher and it has really been taking its toll on me. I feel like I’ve had a hard time balancing my work and personal life and would get upset when the 2 would mix. Watching this video made me feel so calm and hopeful. God bless!

[@OneFABTeacher]

God bless and keep praying. ((Hugs))

[@jamienelsen9852]

"It can wait" and "it will get done." I am always saying those things to other teachers at my school. I have an attitude like you towards things getting done, but the stress levels at my school are crazy. We don't finish school until the end of June and our spring break is in two weeks you would think it was the end of the term time.

[@OneFABTeacher]

+Jamie Nelsen yes it can wait! I'm so sorry to hear about the stress levels. Many prayers sending your way. ((Hugs))

[@theteacherstribe8392]

The struggle is real! Great strategies, Ms. May.

[@OneFABTeacher]

Yes the struggle can be so real!!! ((Hugs)) sunshine!

[@mrs.carter5423]

Thank you SO much for your encouragement. You fed my soul

[@OneFABTeacher]

Awwww, you are so welcome. Thank you for sharing your thoughts. ((Hugs))

[@belenzapata4740]

I always watch your amazing videos they seriously are so helpful !! I also volunteer at my elementary school I remember messaging you on Instagram and all those helpful advice you have given I've used and they work for me ! much love miss may

[@blessedandjoyful87]

Thank you so much for this video I am a future teacher and I was wondering how I was going to balance it all. Thank you so much I can't wait to watch your class management video and please keep the videos coming you have inspired me so much

[@OneFABTeacher]

You are so very welcome!!! I will definitely keep the videos coming. ((Hugs))

[@jask.9139]

Sooo needed to hear that!Some things I guess we all struggle with,no matter where or what subject we teach! Thank you:)Just recently discovered your channel,looking forward to watching your older videos!

[@OneFABTeacher]

Thank you for watching! ((HUGS))

[@laurasiniski8271]

What a beautiful human being you are. I've been bounced around in grade levels every few years and you know what? I can't do it all. I have three kids and commute 100 miles a day. I cannot do it all. At times I recycle just like you. I know my students, I give them everything I can and that's enough. I know they are all learning and I can't do it all. I send a great big hug to you. Your words brought tears to my eyes because you brought a sense of relief to me. I am a great teacher but I can't do it all. We have other titles on this earth as well. XO

[@laurasiniski8271]

We are all busy with things that are important to us. And we have a right to busy ourselves with different things. That's what makes us happy and balanced individuals. Love your channel!!!

[@OneFABTeacher]

Yes we do! That is exactly what makes us happy individuals. Thank you for your support! ((Hugs))

[@mst675]

Thanks Miss May! As a first - year teacher I really appreciate this advice!

[@OneFABTeacher]

You are so very welcome! (( HUGS ))

[@aliciahughes1812]

This was great, I am having trouble letting things go. Needed this message today.

[@OneFABTeacher]

LET IT GO!!! YOU can do it sunshine!!!! ((HUGS))

[@cindygilliam2179]

Great video! I love your energy and wonderful caring personality!

[@OneFABTeacher]

Awwww, thank you so much for your kindness! I appreciate it! ((Hugs))

[@shinesanders6061]

I needed this. I deal.with that perfectionism and I needed these real tips going into my first year of teaching. You are SOOOOO awesome.

[@OneFABTeacher]

Yes...I totally understand that feeling. Your sanity is more worth it. It doesn't always get done and it's okay. Thanks for stopping by. ((Hugs))

[@1MochaMommi]

Loved the tips! That was the old me too..until I realized enough was enough and made changes. Guess what? I haven't missed a beat and my students haven't either. It takes time though to get that point. Thanks for always sharing!

[@OneFABTeacher]

+1MochaMommi Girl wasn't it just ridiculous to be staying late and getting there early all the time? Enough was enough! High five to waking up and realizing that we are still fab teachers! ((Hugs)) and thank you for your support!

[@FashionAplenty]

I am taking EVERY tip here! ;)

[@terridavenport5243]

I absolutely adore your videos and your approach to learning!!

[@tabbytheartsybear6576]

I’m so happy for your advice!!!! I definitely needed this!

[@OneFABTeacher]

That stuff will always be there. Take care of you and your family. ((HUGS))

[@AniCrisMMoran]

i just wanna say thank you for share all your videos...I really like all your good vibes ... now I started a grattitude log like you and it feels really good ...keep moving forward!!!

[@OneFABTeacher]

Thank you so much! So glad you started your gratitude journal! It does feel really good. God is good! ((Hugs))

[@nickole6100]

You are amazing Ms. May! As a future teacher, these were great tips to keep in mind as I begin my teacher journey. Can't wait for your classroom management series!!

[@OneFABTeacher]

You are too!!! Thank you so much!!! Yes, keep those tips handy and add your own flavor to it too. Have a FAB week! ((Hugs))

[@r.mo.4893]

Thank you so much for this video. It's my second year teaching and to be honest it's been very stressful because I'm trying to complete things when realistically can't get done in one day. I'm also looking forward to the Classroom Management series. You're awesome Miss May!

[@OneFABTeacher]

You are so very welcome! I understand that feeling stressed. We must learn to let go and let God. Thank you for your comment and kindness sunshine. ((HUGS))

[@Teach329]

Oh, I teach 6th grade, but I plan to use some of your strategies. I bought my sterlite container for pencils, erasers, and broken pencils. Thanks for that tip.

[@Teach329]

Thank you so much for responding. I wish I was in your class. You love the Lord and those children, and it certainly shows in all you do! You are appreciated.

[@ESTHERWISE]

That’s the true about the tote bag .. my life :) ... my old me .. as well . Thank you for being you . You inspired me to start a KZbin as well ..

[@OneFABTeacher]

I got so sick of lugging that bag around. LOL thank you for watching! ((HUGS))

[@roderickwoodard1415]

You are so awesome!! I have always wanted to know what you do during the week as a teacher and God answered my prayer! 😀 I am a perfectionist and Type A personality by nature and I always thought that I need to stay late every day as a future teacher in order to give the best of me to my students. Now, I know that is definitely not the case. I will take these tips as a future teacher and use them wisely. As a Para and graduate student, it is very hard to find balance between work, school, and life, but I have 4 more classes, student teaching, and graduation in April 2018, and I am so excited! I definitely have learned to lean on my faith in God when times get tough! Thank you for your tips and I am looking forward to your first classroom management video! 😀

[@OneFABTeacher]

Roderick thank you so much for this comment! I cracked up because I'm so type A myself, but have learned to let some things go and that it's okay. You DON"T need to stay late everyday. As teachers we need to keep our sanity while being FAB teachers. I'm so excited for you and your journey! This next year is going to fly by so fast for you! Thank you so much for always stopping by. Have a fab week my friend! ((HUGS))

[@Niamirismom]

Roderick Woodard I immediately thought of you!!! Miss May is preaching, honey, please remember this video and use the advice!!! 😉😉

[@OneFABTeacher]

😘 thank you sunshine! ((Hugs))

[@anabelmorales1338]

new subscriber. 💞 love you for being so honest. 💙I advise the new teachers on my team that things will get done when they get done. people will get burned out especially when they are coming in as early as the first custodian comes in and leave as the sun is setting 😮 I think for some it takes a few years to realize this reality and eventually catch on though. thanks again! God bless.

[@OneFABTeacher]

I so agree! I think it takes a few years to realize it. Thank you for subscribing and have a FAB Friday!! ((Hugs))

[@poetree2000]

Anabel Morales My boyfriend would ask me if I was going to work to help the custodians😂😂

[@gracewithouttears3687]

I leave at 4:15 every day whether I’m finished or not and I never bring work home. Some days I’m more prepared than others but I just deal with it. I’ve felt guilty for doing this, but I have to draw clear lines.

[@kiannahgorham4478]

OMG ! I love this !! Great tips , thank you !

[@OneFABTeacher]

Thank you so much! ((Hugs))

[@anabelmorales1338]

I have brought my bag home and never open it!!🤗🤗 and I'm ok with that. sometimes it's a habit...but I learned early on to leave work at work. very rarely do I bring work home and if I do I only work on it after my kids are in bed.

[@OneFABTeacher]

Yes the struggle was real for so many years. It's really good to just leave work at work! ((Hugs))

[@divagirl10]

I WISH I could have you as a mentor teacher for Student teaching next year. Or someone like you.

[@crazylea]

Yes Ms. May I am struggling to keep up with the due dates and requirements of the school.

[@OneFABTeacher]

I understand sunshine. It gets hard, trust me I know. ((Hugs))

[@Mishy732]

Love you Miss. May! I am doing my final internship for teaching. You’re so inspirational ❤️

[@OneFABTeacher]

Love you back sunshine! Congrats on finishing up. That’s super exciting! ((Hugs))

[@faithcote9331]

I love your channel! I'm student teaching so this is so helpful ❤️

[@OneFABTeacher]

Yay!!! Love your name! ((Hugs))

[@krisberly1]

I needed these Okays!!! Thanks.

[@OneFABTeacher]

You are welcome! ((HUGS))

[@sharinechante1798]

I love your channel!!! I am thinking about making a career change into teaching and your videos are just awesome !!!!

[@OneFABTeacher]

THANK YOU SO VERY MUCH! I LOVE what I do. ((HUGS))

[@laurenbashoura9575]

Hi, Miss May, how do you know which things to let go, and when? How do you distinguish between having a balance and being neglectful/lazy when it comes to your work? What helps you draw that line?

[@uptownflavor]

You are brilliant!

[@OneFABTeacher]

+The Uptownflavor Network thank you so much! (( HUGS ))

[@MissTierraney]

Wow I'm literally editing a video on this exact topic! It'll be posted tomorrow

[@OneFABTeacher]

Awesome! ((Hugs))

[@CaitlynHendricks-id8ky]

Miss May, can you share about how you financially make things work on a teacher's salary? I am on the struggle bus and need some guidance!

[@clarasalaam2831]

❤️❤️❤️

[@arleenwilliams5600]

I was so bad about taking work home that one of my colleagues started calling me "Three Bags". She would see me and instead of calling me by name she would say , "Hi, Three Bags!"

[@OneFABTeacher]

+Arleen Williams Yes, you must do better. You deserve that. We work too hard and it all just doesn't get done and it's okay! One bag this year sunshine. One bag!! ((Hugs))

[@budgetrebelgoals]

Great video! What advice do you have for aspiring teachers?

[@budgetrebelgoals]

As far as how to gain teaching experience?

[@OneFABTeacher]

Are you wanting to become a teacher? You are a teacher and want more experience in other grade levels? ((hugs))

[@atiny_avery8490]

I want to be a teacher and plan on attending school in the fall to get my degree because I have always wanted to be a teacher. I am a person with high anxiety and I am just wondering if you have any advice for me as a person who is very worried and anxious going into elementary education? Thank you so much for all of your videos! They have helped me so so so very much :)

[@OneFABTeacher]

Congrats on going into education. My best advice would be try and observe as many classrooms as you can during that time. Ask lots of questions, take photos of great ideas. Ask God, to give you the tools you need that day to do the best you can. ((Hugs))

[@MrsBreonnaBaker]

What’s the better app for communication; remind or class dojo?

[@OneFABTeacher]

I prefer remind, but you might like dojo better. I think whatever fits your style. ((Hugs))

[@SimplySallam]

How Do you like teaching in Texas?

[@OneFABTeacher]

I love it! ((Hugs))

[@SimplySallam]

One FAB Teacher Awesome. I teach in Florida. My friend is getting ready to move to Houston and resume her teaching career there.