A Virtual Teacher’s New Year’s Resolutions

As we prepare to welcome a new year, let’s be mindful of our successes and our moments to grow.

Will you be hitting the reset button?

Educators, will you be adding to your classroom and personal routines? Parents, will you be seeking new ways to be involved in your child’s education? Students, are you setting goals or hoping to improve your study habits?

Here is my list of New Year’s resolutions as a virtual instructor:

1. Learn about a new technology tool.

This can be something to make your organizational life easier or maybe a new presentation tool. Perhaps one of your students knows about something awesome and can teach you. Maybe they could then present it to fellow classmates to make everyone’s virtual experience even cooler!

2. Spice up live lessons.

There is always room for improvement right? Ask yourself what you can do to be more engaging for your students. Ask your students what they want more of. Ask a teammate to complete a friendly observation and talk about it openly. What can you do to be even better?

3. When completing #2, remember to think outside of the box.

If you receive any constructive criticism, try not to take it personally. This can be tough, but remember why you are teaching.

4. Say “Thank you” to someone at least once a week at work.

It feels so good to know that you have made a difference in someone’s day!

5. Get dressed.

I mean really get dressed, fellow virtual employees! Don’t put on the yoga pants unless you really intend on doing yoga. This is a tough one – I know! It can be something we might brag about … working from home in our PJ’s sounds so luxurious. I am certain that we have all done some super-amazing things while wearing wacky clothes, but let’s make sure our hygiene matches the rest of the world at least once a week!

6. Get to know students even more.

Spend an extra minute in every call talking about what they are up to. They will love you even more for remembering their soccer game or guitar recital.

7. Get to know teammates even more.

Since we work virtually, this is key to building those relationships of trust which will then evolve into awesome collaboration.

8. Be more efficient!

Use your time wisely at work and at home. We are only given so much of it; make every interaction an impactful one!

9. Incorporate physical activity into the daily routine.

Your body and mind will thank you!

10. Smile in the mirror.

Teaching is the best job in the world and it is yours! Educators, don’t forget the power you wield!

Happy New Year! Do you have any resolutions that others might want to adopt for 2015? Comment below to share!