If this time of year feels a little off, you’re not imagining it.
There’s just more… weight.
You’re thinking about your students, the test, the scores, what it all means. It follows you home, pops up when you’re trying to relax, shows up right before you fall asleep.
That doesn’t mean you’re doing something wrong.
It means you care.
Every teacher I’ve ever known who cares about their students feels this in some way.
You’re not alone in it.
What helped me during weeks like this wasn’t doing more.
It was learning how to step out of it for a bit.
Here are a few things that actually made a difference for me:
First, a quick reset you can do anywhere
Before school, during a break, or right before testing starts.
Breathe in through your nose for 4 seconds, hold for 4, out for 6. Do it 4 times.
It’s simple, but it slows everything down fast.
Second, give your brain a stopping point
At some point in the evening, just decide… “I’m done thinking about school for today.”
Not forever. Just for tonight.
When your brain drifts back, catch it and move on. That boundary matters.
Third, move your body a little
A walk, yoga, Pilates, something simple.
Even 10–20 minutes helps you get out of your head and reset.
And honestly, don’t isolate yourself
Go grab dinner, sit outside, spend time with your spouse or a friend.
Testing season feels heavier when you carry it alone.
You’ve already done the work.
What your students need from you right now isn’t more pressure.
They need you steady. Calm. Real.
That’s enough.
-Doug Overton