🎉 Summer is almost here, and I'm dropping some serious truth bombs about why your sweet summer break should be about HEALING, not hustling. If your summer to-do list is longer than a CVS receipt (I see you! 😅), this episode is your roadmap to setting the limits you need for a joyful back-to-school season.
🎯 What You'll Learn
The Four Essential Areas to Set Limits This Summer:
1. 👪 Set Limits with Your Family
- Just because you're "off" doesn't mean you're available 24/7
- How to handle the division of labor conversations
- Scripts for saying no lovingly: "I love spending time with you, but I also need time to recharge so I don't burn out before school starts"
- The "guided close" technique for managing requests
2. 🚫 Set Limits with Guilt & Over-Productivity
- Unlearn the martyr complex (I see you, people-pleaser! 💕)
- Schedule non-doing time proactively
- Remember: Productive rest is important too
- Having needs doesn't make you needy - it makes you human ✨
3. 📅 Set Limits with Invitations & Commitments
- Do fewer things and enjoy them more
- The gut check question: "Is this aligned with rest and joy, or guilt and obligation?"
- My Christmas story: One favorite activity per family member = more joy, less stress
- Simple script: "I'm prioritizing rest this summer. I'm gonna have to pass."
4. 📱 Set Limits with Social Media & Screen Time
- Your nervous system wasn't designed to "drink trauma from a fire hose"
- Experiment with app deletions and screen-time goals
- Model the behavior you want to see
- Focus on being present with the people who matter most
This episode includes practical strategies, a pep talk (always), and a celebration of all you've accomplished this year.
Listen now, and share with a teaching friend!
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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