44. Embracing Imperfection: Breaking Free from Teacher Perfectionism

11/01/24 • 16 min

Embracing Imperfection: Breaking Free from Teacher PerfectionismEpisode Summary
In this episode of The Strength of Teachers, we discuss the perfectionist mindset many educators struggle with, its impact on teacher self-care, and how to shift toward a healthier outlook of excellence rather than flawlessness. Tune in to learn strategies for managing the stress and anxiety that often accompany an “all-or-nothing” mentality in the teaching profession and for insights on embracing imperfection, finding balance, and sustaining happiness as a teacher.Key Takeaways:1. Teacher Perfectionism vs. Striving for Excellence
Understanding the difference between perfectionism and striving for excellence, focusing on setting realistic goals in teaching and personal growth. While perfectionism is driven by a fear of inadequacy, excellence centers on hopeful growth. This shift in mindset is crucial for teacher self-care and a sustainable career.
2. Signs of Perfectionism in Teaching
Perfectionist tendencies often manifest in excessive busyness, procrastination, or self-doubt. We discuss how perfectionism adds to teachers' stress, overwhelm, and anxiety—ultimately impacting classroom environments and mental well-being. Recognizing these signs is the first step toward healthier practices.
3. How to Move Beyond Perfectionism
Learn the actionable steps teachers can take to break free from perfectionist thinking, including self-reflection, generating processing emotions, and adopting a growth mindset. The episode also highlights the beauty of "Wabi-Sabi"—appreciating imperfections—as a reminder that teachers’ value isn’t tied to flawless performance.
4. Introducing "Calm in the Classroom" - A Course for Teacher Wellness
For more help creating an emotionally healthy environment for yourself and your students, check out my upcoming course, Calm in the Classroom, designed to teach essential emotional and mental skills for managing stress, overwhelm, and anxiety. Teachers will learn how to regulate their nervous systems, build resilience, and create a more balanced teaching life. Sign up to be notified when enrollment opens!Mentioned in this Episode:
Michelangelo's Prisoners: Check out the famous "unfinished" sculptures here!Calm in the Classroom - Ready to overcome perfectionism and manage stress better? Join the waitlist HERE to be notified when Calm in the Classroom is available.
Follow Brenna on Instagram - Connect with Brenna at @brennanelsoncoaching for more teacher self-care inspiration, podcast updates, and to share your teacher self-care journey.
Free Coaching Calls - Interested in personal support? Book a free coaching call to dive deeper into teacher wellness and self-care. Keywords: Teacher self-care tips ; Managing teacher stress and anxiety ; Overcoming perfectionism for teachers ; Teacher wellness and mental health ; Self-care for teachers with high standardsHit play on this episode to gain insight into perfectionism, prioritize your wellness, and cultivate a fulfilling teaching journey! And if this episode resonates with you, don’t forget to subscribe and share The Strength of Teachers podcast with your teacher community.

Previous Episode

43. Teachers Can Trust Themselves

Episode 43 – Teachers Can Trust Themselves
Teacher Wellness Tips

In this episode of The Strength of Teachers, we explore the importance of teacher wellness through the lens of self-trust. Host Brennashares a personal story about how failing to listen to her intuition led to a back injury, drawing a powerful parallel to how teachers often doubt their instincts in the classroom.
With a sea of opinions from administrators, specialists, and even social media, it can be easy to question your own judgment as an educator.
However, Brenna emphasizes that teachers are professionals with deep knowledge of their students and subjects, and that trusting yourself can be a key part of maintaining wellness.Key Takeaways:* Trust your own instincts as a teacher; you know your students and their needs best.
* While seeking advice and resources is valuable, your unique expertise is what matters most in your classroom.
* Excessive external opinions can lead to self-doubt, but believing in your own capabilities fosters a stronger teaching practice.
* Taking care of your teacher wellness means recognizing when to pause, reflect, and listen to yourself.
Teacher Wellness Tip of the Week:
If you're feeling overwhelmed, take a step back and ask yourself, "What is my intuition telling me?" Trust your inner voice as a guide for both your personal and professional life.
New Course Alert!
Want to feel more calm and peaceful in your classroom?

Sign up for the waitlist for Brenna's new course, Calm in the Classroom, where you'll learn how to manage emotions, regulate your nervous system, and create a fulfilling teacher life.
Sign up at brennanelsoncoaching.com/calm.Ready to Get Coached?
Nearly every other profession employs life coaches! Why not teachers? Try coaching out for FREE and see how the tools and content apply to your real life situations! Click Here to book your session today!
Connect with Us:Follow The Strength of Teachers on Instagram and share this episode with your teacher friends!
This episode is a reminder to all educators: trust yourself, take care of your teacher wellness, and remember that you've got this!

Next Episode

45. When the Future Feels Uncertain

Episode 45 - When the Future Feels Uncertain Facing Uncertainty – Building Self-Trust Over WorryIn this episode, we dive into how teachers can manage the stress and worry that often come with uncertain times, especially during pivotal events. With so much outside of our control, worry can feel like a natural response. However, we explore why excessive worry is often counterproductive and how it can drain emotional and physical energy without changing outcomes.
Instead, this episode introduces strategies for building self-trust as a healthier approach to uncertainty, offering ways for teachers to process fear, anxiety, and other challenging emotions more effectively.
Brenna emphasizes the importance of staying present, releasing the "what ifs," and taking intentional actions that align with your values. From facing hypothetical fears to embracing self-compassion, this episode guides teachers in cultivating a resilient mindset.
Whether it’s trusting in your ability to handle future challenges or finding grounding actions that bring relief, this conversation aims to empower teachers with tools for managing worry in the classroom and beyond.Key Takeaways:**Why worrying feels productive but isn’t—and what to do instead.
**How focusing on self-trust can reduce fear about uncertain events.
**Practical strategies for building emotional resilience in challenging times.
**Why shifting focus from hypothetical worries to present actions brings peace.
**Inspiration to move past worry through mindful actions, self-compassion, and mindset shifts.
Mentioned in this Episode:Calm in the Classroom Course: Master emotional regulation techniques, process hard emotions, regulate your nervous system, and adopt a balanced mindset for both personal and professional growth. Click HERE for more details!
Episode 7: The Power of Emotions
For questions, reach out at [email protected].
Quote Highlight: “Action is the antidote to despair.” — Sharon McMahonTune in for actionable advice that empowers teachers to face uncertainty with calm confidence, emotional strength, and self-trust.