In this episode of Untethering Shame, host Kyira Wackett and guest Diane Manser delve into the emotional complexities of teaching. They discuss the often-overlooked emotional load that teachers carry, the challenges they face in the classroom, and the importance of self-awareness and emotional regulation. Diane shares her personal experiences and insights from her 19 years in education, emphasizing the need for support and understanding within the teaching community. The conversation highlights the impact of expectations, the role of self-care, and the importance of creating a supportive environment for both teachers and students.
Key Takeaways:
- Teaching is not just about lesson plans; it's about emotional energy.
- Teachers often feel responsible for their students' emotional well-being.
- The first day of teaching can be overwhelming and filled with unexpected challenges.
- Self-awareness is crucial for teachers to navigate their emotions.
- Expectations can lead to feelings of inadequacy and shame.
- Teacher self-care should not shift the responsibility for systemic issues back onto teachers.
- Building a supportive community among teachers is essential.
- Teachers experience a range of emotions that can impact their performance.
- Empowerment comes from understanding and processing emotions.
- Teaching is a journey of self-discovery and growth.
More about Diane:
I am a current 18-year veteran high school English teacher. I have written and published a book about the emotional challenges of teaching and how teachers can move themselves to empowerment. I have founded a business called Teaching is Emotional, and my goal is to build a community where we can share our emotional challenges and we can learn from each other’s empowerment strategies.
I am also a mom and wife, I love reading nonfiction, I laugh easily, and feel joy and pride in my personal growth. I return to my WHY as often as possible to stay centered and focused.
Connect with Diane:
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Chapters:
- 00:00 - The Emotional Load of Teaching
- 02:53 - Navigating Teacher Emotions
- 05:58 - The First Day Experience
- 09:07 - Understanding Teacher Reactions
- 11:52 - The Impact of Expectations
- 14:56 - The Role of Self-Care
- 18:04 - Shame and Teaching
- 20:53 - The Loneliness of Teaching
- 23:50 - Paths of Teacher Experience
- 27:03 - Creating Supportive Environments
- 30:09 - Empowerment Through Understanding
- 33:00 - The Importance of Connection
- 35:58 - Finding Balance in Teaching
- 38:49 - The Journey of Self-Discovery
- 42:05 - The Future of Teaching
