It's Giving "Over-Achiever"

You name it. I've signed up for it. I am a textbook participant. Not only do I sign up for everything relevant to my career, I have the nerve to be an active participant and go HARD on all things.

Pros?

I've experienced plenty in a short period of time. I've taken on 3 different leadership roles in 6 years. I've attended multiple professional development opportunities offered within my school district and by outside vendors dedicated to education, math curriculum, or leadership. I've met plenty of wonderful people with the common goal of student achievement with equity in mind. I am a lifelong learner dedicated to this work. 

Cons?

I'm drowning.
I'm tired.
I'm busy.
I'm "Ms. Blair Johnson" or "Ms. Johnson" for more hours in my day than I am just "Blair". 

I am NOT complaining. I promise. I'm just saying, I need to learn a lesson in recognizing my limits and finding balance in my professional and personal life. In the middle of the pandemic, I decided it was a good idea to start my journey toward being a National Board Certified Teacher. Then, I applied for a leadership job as an instructional specialist. Did I stop there? Nope. I piled on. I decided to apply to graduate school. Did I stop there? Kind of. Professionally, and for now, that's where I am. Actively learning a new job, working on a certification, and working toward earning a Master's degree in educational leadership.

Personally, I signed up for my first big race: a marathon! Even in THIS situation, I added too much to my plate. Not only is this a marathon, I'm running 48.6 miles in 4 consecutive days. I signed up to do the Dopey Challenge in the Disney Marathon Weekend. What does that mean? It means, in addition to my professional life, I will be running a 5K (Thursday), a 10K (Friday), a Half Marathon (Saturday), and full marathon (Sunday). Seriously, I think the little brat and angel on my shoulders are getting unequal time. I think the brat is like "looks good girl, keep piling on! why not" and the angel is either tied up or sleep. 

It's giving over-achiever, but the reality? I'm just doing too much and I am clearly my own Yes WoMan. One day I'll learn, but I'm currently being hard-headed and not learning from my stress (and new acne). 

Pictured: Kronk with Shoulder Devil and Shoulder Angel (Image taken from Oh My Disney!)

Send help! Or send ideas. How are YOU making time for yourself? How are YOU balancing your professional and personal life? Drop a comment below with a virtual slap on the wrist (because I clearly need a little discipline) or your answers to those questions.