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January 5, 2025 13 mins

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In this heartfelt mini-episode, Grace shares a "Lunchbox Love Note" to help teachers navigate the dreaded Sunday Scaries. As winter break ends and the hustle of teaching looms, many educators feel a mix of anxiety, dread, and resentment. Grace reminds you that these feelings are normal—and that you’re not alone.

💡 What You'll Learn in This Episode:

  • 🌈 Why it’s okay to feel conflicted about going back to school.
  • 🛑 How to stop guilt from stealing your joy today.
  • ❤️ A reminder that at least one student—and likely more—is eagerly waiting for the safe, calm, and structured environment you provide.
  • 💪 Why you don’t need a “new year, new you” resolution—just a return to the joyful, unexhausted version of yourself.

Teacher Takeaways:

  • You’re human, and your emotions are valid.
  • You became a teacher to make an impact, and that impact is felt deeply—even if it doesn’t always show.
  • Remember: students who test boundaries often need your calm, consistent care the most.

📌 Actionable Advice:

  1. Give yourself permission to feel your feelings without guilt.
  2. Focus on the joy and impact you bring to your students.
  3. Ditch overwhelming resolutions—small, healthy habits are the key to feeling better.

And if you appreciate my content, I humbly invite you to "pay it forward" and share this episode with a colleague. Everyone wins 💛

Back to school special 2025/6 Beat Teacher Burnout with Better Boundaries Course is everything you need to thrive in the upcoming school year. LIMITED TIME: Use code BBB27 at checkout for a special discount.

Want to truly thrive in teaching without sacrificing your personal life?
Check out my signature on-demand self-study course, Balance Your Teacher Life. Complete details here: www.gracestevens.com/balance


📘 My latest (and greatest!) book:
The Empowered Teacher Toolkit
Check out the best-selling Positive Mindset Habits for Teachers book here
Beat Teacher Burnout with Better Boundaries book here

My TPT Store: https://www.teacherspayteachers.com/store/grace-stevens-happy-classrooms

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