Teachers are much happier when they are not mentally exhausted from constantly butting heads with admin, colleagues, parents, or students. This is a message to remind us educators about choosing our battles; we do have great power as teachers--we just need to choose when to use it.
Teddy Roosevelt had the ideology to "Speak softly and carry a big stick." (Below is a great classroom poster to remind you of that.) He even promised that if you do, "You will go far." How can that apply to teachers? Teachers have a huge impact! Never forget that! That impact could be considered "a big stick". Remember the power you weld. Also remember to choose your battles.
You may want to argue with admin; for the most part, don't. You may want to argue with parents; for the most part, don't. You may want to yell at students; for the most part, don't. I recommend getting a journal like the one above to write your aggravations in for when you are frustrated about something, but you also know it's not the right time to cause a fuss. You'll find that just writing it down helps get it off your chest.
Although it's true that you will gain more ground when you speak softly...remember, you do "carry a big stick." Again, you weld great power! The things you do are important! The world could not continue in a path of progression without you, and others like you. Stand up for what's best for students--just choose your battles thoughtfully.
To summarize, you will find positive self-pride, a peace of mind, and satisfaction as you battle for what's best for students; you will also enjoy yourself more as you synergize with colleagues. Battling for your students and getting along with colleagues are two of the important keys to enjoyment as an educator.
If you are looking for more encouragment for teaching, you might enjoy my blog post with a famous quote about how you are only one person--yet you are one person making a difference, which counts for a lot. (Click here to view it.) You might also enjoy just browsing my blog archive to read all the uplifting messages
As always, hang in there, Teach!
Happy Teaching,
Frank
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