175: STRIVE to Teach Happier

In this episode of the Powered Up Podcast, hosts Ken Ehrmann, Rob Dunlop, and Suzanne Dailey discuss their experiences in education, focusing on the challenges and triumphs of returning to the classroom, the importance of teacher energy, and the role of happiness in teaching. They explore the complexities of supporting new teachers, the expectations for professional growth, and the significance of building relationships in the classroom. The conversation emphasizes the need for grace and optimism in the teaching profession, especially during the early years. In this conversation, Rob Dunlop and Suzanne Dailey discuss the importance of rational optimism in education, emphasizing the need for teachers to maintain a positive mindset while acknowledging challenges. They explore strategies for supporting new teachers, the significance of agency in personal well-being, and the balance between professional responsibilities and personal life. The discussion highlights the necessity of self-reflection, gratitude practices, and the importance of community support in navigating the complexities of teaching.

Takeaways

• Happiness is essential for effective teaching.

• The start of the school year felt more normal post-pandemic.

• Supporting new teachers is crucial for retention.

• Teacher energy significantly impacts student engagement.

• Year one is often about survival for new teachers.

• Building relationships is key to classroom success.

• Teachers need to give themselves grace during transitions.

• Optimism can help navigate challenges in education.

• Instructional practices should evolve over time.

• Professional growth is a continuous journey in teaching. Rational optimism involves recognizing challenges while maintaining a positive outlook.

• Practicing gratitude daily can enhance emotional resilience.

• Agency in our actions can significantly impact our well-being.

• It's essential to focus on strengths in conversations with colleagues.

• Self-reflection is crucial for personal and professional growth.

• Finding a grounding word each day can help maintain focus.

• Physical reminders can aid in staying present and mindful.

• Work-life balance is vital for sustaining a teaching career.

• Year two teachers should focus on specific areas for improvement.

• Community support is invaluable in navigating teaching challenges.

Chapters

• 00:00 Introduction and Backgrounds

• 03:11 Navigating the New School Year

• 06:00 Returning to the Classroom: Rob's Experience

• 08:51 The Importance of Teacher Energy

• 11:56 Instructional Practices and Teacher Development

• 14:52 Expectations for Teacher Growth

• 18:03 The Role of Happiness in Teaching

• 28:20 Navigating Challenges with Rational Optimism

• 31:59 The Power of Agency in Education

• 34:38 Understanding Rational Optimism vs. Toxic Positivity

• 38:55 Strengths-Based Conversations for Support

• 41:46 Finding Internal Rational Optimism

• 43:13 Work-Life Balance in Teaching

• 48:45 Grounding Practices for Challenging Seasons

• 52:58 Advice for Year Two Teachers

Suzanne Dailey

• Website: www.suzannedailey.com 
• Social Media: @DaileySuzanne 

Robert Dunlop

• Website: www.motivatedu.com 
• Social Media: RobDunlopEDU

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