FILL YOUR CUP

Offering practical advice and exercises, this manual aims to inspire educators to rekindle their spark.

Nearly three times more likely to experience depression than other working adults, modern educators are besieged by evolving expectations and limited time, Veny asserts. The result is an exodus of qualified teachers from the field, with those remaining in the classroom feeling unseen and sometimes unsafe. But sharing his own story of a childhood mental health crisis and examples of students whose potentials were protected by teachers, the author encourages educators to not give up on their classrooms or themselves. Veny provides a wealth of empowering resources, guiding educators back from the brink of burnout and examining a host of relevant topics. Covered in this work are such diverse subjects as finding your “Why,” having mental health conversations, and dealing with the feeling you have “failed” a student. And while the book contains traditional reminders about a balanced diet and adequate sleep, concepts like the “Covey Time Management Matrix,” “Coping Ahead,” and “Worry Time” will introduce readers to new, intriguing strategies for managing key issues. In addition to delivering helpful skill-building activities dedicated to filling “your cup,” each chapter is accompanied by a song selected by the author. From Chicago’s “Does Anybody Really Know What Time It Is?” to Bill Withers’ “Lean on Me,” this free Spotify soundtrack offers a multisensory approach to the lessons presented. It is important to note that serious—and potentially triggering—topics, such as self-harm and suicide, are occasionally discussed, illustrating the challenges faced by modern youths and the teachers who protect them. But the work’s overall tone is optimistic, and professionals of all backgrounds can benefit from the positive, useful advice. Stripping away the complexity surrounding self-care, Veny notes that by creating a detailed plan to manage time and stress and reducing negative influences, emotional wellness and professional excellence can flow freely in educators’ lives.

A valuable guide to helping teachers reawaken their passion and prioritize their emotional health.