Reflect & Recharge: A Friday Ritual for Teachers

Happy Friday, teachers! We’ve made it through another (long) week, and before you rush (or in my case, wearily stroll) into the weekend, let’s take a few minutes to pause, reflect, and recharge. Fridays can be more than just a countdown to the weekend; they’re a chance to reconnect with ourselves and the people who support us along the way. Let’s make today a celebration of all the hard work you’ve put in, a moment to reflect, and a gentle start to a restful weekend.

Celebrate Your Wins

I’ve often talked about how I live life gamefully. My analogy is that each positive interaction I have as I walk from one end of the building to the other is like Sonic the Hedgehog collecting gold rings. This approach means that I can’t help but have a good day. I level up as I collect those gold rings. Each small win, no matter how small, is a reminder that I’m meant to be here and I’m making a difference.

What’s one small thing you’re proud of this week, big or small?
Who or what made you smile this week?

Gratitude Check-In

I can’t achieve anything without the support of friends, family and loved ones and I’m a big proponent of giving thanks, readily, and often. Expressing gratitude not only feels good, but it also helps us build trust and closer bonds with the people around us. I teach my students how to craft the perfect thank you, and encourage them to write letters of thanks to the people who help them.

What’s one thing you’re grateful for from this week?
Was there a student, coworker, or moment that made your week a little brighter?
Is there a positive phone call you can make for a student before you go home tonight?

Recharge for the Weekend

Recently, someone asked me for my best self-care tip, and I said: ‘Prioritize sleep, stretch often, get outside, wear sunscreen, say thank you, and be kind.’ I appreciate that self care has become a bit of a trendy topic, and I know we can’t sleep, meditate, exercise, or journal our way out of the social injustices and inequities around us. But self-care is never selfish—it’s an investment in ourselves so that we can show up at our best for those around us.

Self-care doesn’t have to be complicated. Often, it’s as simple as listening to your body and responding to what it needs.

Feeling tight? Consider a stretch.
Lacking motivation? Perhaps there’s a music playlist to inspire you.
Tired? I maintain that napping is my super power.
Lacking connection? Catch up with a friend or family member, perhaps even head outside for a walk.
Feeling anxious? Discover your flow state by getting lost in a creative hobby or task.

Whether you’re relaxing with a cozy book, bingeing a Netflix show, or enjoying some screen-free time, I hope your weekend is restful and restorative—you’ve earned it.

Set an Intention for the Coming Week

Before the weekend fully begins, let’s take a moment to look ahead. What’s one simple goal or intention you want to set for yourself next week? Think of it as something small that brings joy or balance, something achievable that’ll give a lift to your Monday.

My goals for next week include aiming to start each lesson with a thought-provoking question or engaging conversation starter—I know the first few minutes can set the tone for learning. I also plan to be more visible around the school; sometimes I get caught up in my work and miss out on connecting with colleagues who inspire me. Finally, I want to return to my exercise habit and make time for movement. I know I’ll feel more energetic when I’m more active. Setting intentions doesn’t have to be grand. What’s something small you could try next week that would lift your spirits or add some joy?

What’s one small action you can take each morning to set a positive tone for your day?
Who could you connect with next week—maybe a colleague, student, or friend—that would brighten your week?
What’s one thing you often find yourself putting off? How could you make a little progress on it next week?
Where in your week could you add a bit of joy or relaxation, even if it’s just a few minutes?

We are all on the journey towards mastery, and this week was one small part of that journey. Take a moment to acknowledge everything you’ve accomplished, even the small wins that made a difference in someone’s day. Recognize the strength it takes to show up each day and the impact you’re making.

Celebrate your successes, thank those who’ve supported you, and most importantly, take the time you need to recharge. Whether you find relaxation in a book, a walk outside, or simply some quiet time, embrace it—you’ve earned every moment of rest. And as you look toward the week ahead, remember that a small intention or goal can set a positive tone and bring a little extra joy into your days.

Regular readers of the blog will know that I love to feature playlists, so here’s my weekend playlist for you to play as you wrap up another school week. Enjoy your well-deserved weekend!