January has a way of feeling heavy, doesn’t it? The fresh start energy meets real-life challenges, and suddenly, the pressure to do it all is loud.
This year, I’m choosing to let go of a few things—so I can show up for my students, colleagues, and myself in a more grounded way:
1. Letting go of “doing it all”
I don’t need to have perfect centers, pristine bulletin boards, and seamless routines all at once. Showing up consistently and thoughtfully matters far more than perfection.
2. Letting go of comparison
Every classroom, every support role, every student is different. What works in one space might not work in another—and that’s okay.
3. Letting go of guilt around downtime
Rest isn’t optional; it’s part of the work. Taking breaks, reflecting, and stepping away when needed is essential for sustainable teaching.
4. Letting go of unnecessary pressure
“Fresh start January” is a nice idea—but it doesn’t mean every routine needs to be brand-new, or every lesson flawless. I’m giving myself permission to ease in, tweak, and adapt as I go.
5. Letting go of internalizing small setbacks
Some days won’t go perfectly—and that’s normal. I’m reminding myself that a hiccup doesn’t define me, my students, or my classroom.
What does letting go look like for you this year? Even small shifts in mindset can make a huge difference.
Teaching and supporting isn’t about doing more—it’s about doing what matters, consistently and with care. This January, I’m choosing grounded, human, supportive, and I hope you can too.
