Essentials: Year 1 #3

BE WARY OF THE TEACHING SOCIAL MEDIA WORLD

Jordan Peterson is a highly influential and polarizing figure. In his book, 12 Rules for Life, he discusses this idea that we fall into a trap of continually judging ourselves against other people, rather than judging us on ourselves. Or more specifically, the person we were yesterday. He says we should compare ourselves on the person we were yesterday as a means to seek growth.

This is particularly important as a graduate teacher. Especially when you're trying to do well, impress your leaders and colleagues, but also dominate in the classroom. Wanting to do a good job can lead us online in search of inspiration and resources. And while the world of social media can be super beneficial for finding that, it can also have a negative effect.

I've lost count how many times I've jumped online to "work". Without warning, I'm sucked down the rabbit hole of Facebook groups, #teachersofinstagram, Twitter and Pintrest. Two hours later, I realise I still haven't found what we are looking for and feel worse for it!

Social Media can be a great tool for resources, but be wary of feeling overwhelmed or that you are not doing enough because you're seeing others doing great stuff.

You are enough. You are doing enough.

Tips:

1. Don’t compare yourself to other teachers

2. Don’t compare yourself to other teachers

3. Don’t compare yourself to other teachers