Managing the Sunday Night Scaries

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Show Notes:

You’ve finally made it to the weekend where you’re able to breathe and relax from a long and stressful week at work. You take full advantage of living your life outside the classroom where you get to hang out with friends and family and catch up on some sleep. But then Sunday rolls around and this horrible pit in your stomach starts to grow as the day goes on. You’re flooded with emotions and begin to feel anxious and stressed. Sound familiar? 

What you’re feeling are the Sunday night scaries. This very common and normal occurrence is a feeling every teacher has experienced whether they’re beginning teachers or veterans. Even though you love your job, why are you experiencing doubt and uncertainty going into a new week? There are many ideas that I dive into this episode, but the most common catalyst of anxiety is fear. I talk about where your fear might come from and the negative impact it can have on your self-talk and confidence going into a new week of school.

Knowing the why behind your Sunday anxiety is the first step in managing this feeling, but honestly, that’s not enough. I have, and still do, experience the Sunday night scaries, yet have learned ways to manage it and feel calm going into Monday morning. With that in mind, I’m sharing five ways you can combat the Sunday scaries and gain a new perspective on the day and week ahead. Each idea requires you to find ways to take your mind off work, try activities that increase your endorphin levels, and create small moments of happiness and surprise throughout your day on Monday.

If any of this sounds familiar, unfortunately, you’re part of the Sunday night anxiety club. However, the good news is that it’s not your fault, you’re not alone, and it’s completely normal. The next time the Sunday night scaries come creeping in, try one of these strategies to get your mind off school and create a positive mindset heading into the week.

Inside this week's show, you'll learn:

• Which feelings are associated with the Sunday night scaries and an explanation of why this happens
• The number one feeling behind anxiety and a teachable moment this can create for your students
• Five ways to combat the anxiety that Sunday can bring and how routines can play a major role
• An update on my book that’s coming out in the spring and topics that are included that are beneficial for you

Links & resources mentioned inside this episode:

• The 5-Step Classroom Management Reset  
• Follow Dr. Lori on Instagram.
• NEW! Follow Beginning Teacher Talk on TikTok.  

I hope this information is helpful as you prepare for your first, second, or third year of teaching. Until next time, remember, just because you're a beginning elementary teacher, there's no need for you to struggle like one.

💛 Lori

Dr. Lori Friesen | Beginning Teacher Mentor

Creator of the R.E.A.D.Y. for School Academy, Dr. Lori Friesen has mentored thousands of beginning teachers across the country through her workshops and courses. Host of the popular podcast, Beginning Teacher Talk, and creator of the innovative literacy program for 1st and 2nd grade, Dogs Help Kids Read and Succeed, Dr. Lori is dedicated to serving educators and inspiring learners. Learn more at drlorifriesen.com and at howdogshelpkids.com.

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Related episodes you might enjoy:

• How to Cope with Sunday Night Anxiety: Yes, it is Real, and Yes, You are Normal
• How to Deal with Stress & Anxiety as a New Teacher
• What to Do When You Worry Too Much: A Teacher’s Guide to Overcoming Anxiety
• How to Manage Stress & Uncertainty: Social-Emotional Support for Teachers

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