Dear Anxious Teacher

Welcome to the Dear Anxious Teacher Blog! This platform serves as a survival guide for both new educators and seasoned veterans, offering strategies to navigate the teaching profession while managing the mental chatter and stress that often accompanies it. Here, you’ll find tips and techniques on various aspects of teaching, including classroom procedures, behavior management, building rapport with students, fostering a positive classroom atmosphere, streamlining grading processes, using technology effectively, coping with anxiety, practicing affirmations, and much more.

Allow me to introduce myself: My name is Mr. Greg, a 13-year teacher. I am an experienced teacher who has grappled with anxiety throughout my career. At one point, my anxiety was so debilitating that I contemplated leaving the profession entirely. However, determined to overcome this obstacle, I pushed through these challenging times to beat my anxiety and keep it at “bay”. Through a lot of influential books and experiences, I found my way back to the classroom, prepared with strategies to help my anxiety.

I understand the struggles you may face–the sleepless nights, the dread, the reluctance to face each day–I’ve been there. But I want to assure you: you will not only survive, but you will thrive by challenging your anxiety. Trust me, if I can overcome my anxiety and find fulfillment in teaching, so can you. It’s a process.

Teaching is a journey of personal growth. Along the way, you’ll confront your own weaknesses and triggers, but you’ll also assemble a healthier mindset. In my early years, I placed a high value on being liked and accepted by everyone. However, with age and experience, I’ve learned to build confidence and leave my job at my job. No more taking it home and stressing about nonsense. Despite the hard days, I’ve grown to love this job.

Whether you’re a new teacher navigating the difficulties of your first years in the field, or a veteran educator seeking support and guidance, this blog is for you. I’ll be updating it weekly with content and resources to help you navigate this transitional period in your career. And to my fellow teachers, this is no exercise in my ego but just my personal perspective on teaching. You should test and challenge everything here.

Thank you for reading my first blog post, and remember: You’re not alone. I’m here to support you every step of the way.

Warm regards,

Mr. Greg