Put Your Life Jacket On First
The pandemic forced us all to stop and adapt, bringing an unprecedented focus on survival. Teachers, studio owners, and creatives worked harder than ever to navigate a shifting landscape. But after all the adjustments and effort, many of us are now grappling with exhaustion as we return to old habits. How do we ensure that we’re not just surviving but thriving?
Reflecting on What Matters
Lockdowns gave us a rare chance to pause and reevaluate. Many of us made significant changes—dropping outdated programs, adjusting schedules, or even rethinking our entire careers. As life picks back up, the question remains: What changes will you keep? For most, the answer was clear—balance.
Yet balance can feel impossible. Teachers and studio owners face endless demands, from running events to keeping family life afloat. The pressure to “return to normal” is mounting, but how can we keep pushing forward without running ourselves into the ground?
Prioritizing Self-Care
The truth is, you can’t be your best as a teacher, manager, or creative leader if you’re constantly drowning. Much like the airplane safety message, you need to put your own life jacket on first. Taking care of yourself isn’t selfish; it’s essential for sustaining your passion and energy.
Passion is a double-edged sword—it drives us to achieve greatness but can also blind us to our limits. Supporting others is vital, but it can’t come at the cost of your own well-being.
Taking Action
If you’re feeling overwhelmed, it’s time to pause and reassess. Here’s a simple three-step process to help you regain control:
Stop and breathe. Take a moment to think about what you truly want in the long term.
Outline your steps. Identify the actions you need to take to achieve your goals.
Act. Start making small adjustments and build momentum toward balance.
This could mean delegating tasks, taking time off, or setting boundaries around your schedule. Even small changes—like freeing up a few hours of admin work—can make a significant difference.
It’s Time to Prioritize You
Your passion and commitment are the foundation of your success, but they shouldn’t come at the expense of your health and happiness. By putting your life jacket on first, you’ll create space to breathe, reflect, and thrive—not just for yourself but for the people you support and inspire every day.
