Teaching to the TOP

Everyone experiences stress, but how we choose to handle stress can determine the impact that it has on your overall happiness and productivity. Most of us view stress with a negative connotation, but stress can in fact be healthy to experience. 

Consider how diamonds are created. The pressure experienced reveals a beautiful diamond that can last for years to come. When we understand how we respond to stress then we can develop strategies for how we plan on controlling the stress in the long term. 

Over the years we have experienced a variety of stress as teachers. In this episode, we are sharing some of our tips on how we personally handle stress as teachers. We hope these tips will help you in the same way that they have helped us. 

In this episode we share:

• Try and be proactive so that you are not completely blindsided
• Ask yourself what habits you can put in place not to prevent stress from occurring
• Create a checklist of tasks you need to complete and place them categories
• Create a plan for getting it all done
• Stress comes from worry, so developing a plan will create structure for how you plan on accomplishing your tasks
• Focus on the one task causing you the most stress
• Have a productive way to release stress
• Reevaluate your goals and tasks to stay focused and keep you on the right path

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Everyday we forget tasks that need to be completed because we fail to process the information and write it down. So often, we tell ourselves “Oh, I need to remember to…” only to forget it with little hope in recovery of what we intended to do in the first place. We have a solution to this problem! 

The Notes app is a free app that comes standard to Apple devices. You are able to take and store various types of notes and access the information across all Apple devices that are connected to the cloud. This application has the potential to store brain dumps, checklists, recipes, gift ideas and more. 

Learn how we use this app to increase our productivity, reduce forgetfulness, and organize various aspects of our life. You’ll discover the WHAT, WHY and HOW of the Notes App. 

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We did it! We took a personality test and we are sharing it all in today’s episode. We have been seeing a lot of educators discuss their Enneagram online and we thought it would be fun to take an enneagram ourselves and discuss what it means for our productivity as teachers. 

An Enneagram personality tests describes personality in terms of nine types, each driven by their own set of core emotions, fears, and beliefs. The free test which can be found here takes about 10-15 minutes to complete and asks you a series of 105 questions in which you place your response on to a scale of least to greatest. 

This was Bridget’s first time taking the test and Michelle’s second time. Listen in as we discuss our Enneagram types and whether or not we agree with the results. 

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We all love a good hack. It’s not because of the creativity behind the design but because of how simple it can make seemingly complicated tasks. It can be easy to over complicate things especially when we are in search of solutions. But here is the thing, you can make small changes that add up to big results! 

We’ve got 10 simple hacks that you can start to implement TODAY and start seeing amazing results. Now remember, you do not have to do all of these; in fact, we recommend that you do not try all of these at once. Choose one hack to start with and add one each week as you feel more confident. 

OUR 10 EASY TO IMPLEMENT HACKS

Hack #1: Follow the 2-minute rule

Hack #2: Eat the frog

Hack #3: Set timers

Hack #4: Pomodoro principle

Hack #5: Lock your phone

Hack #6: Create a micro-productivity list

Hack #7: Double up

Hack #8: Use shortcuts

Hack #9: Use headphones

Hack #10: Just one more thing

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Until next time… be timely,  stay organized, and be productive… buh-bye… see ya!

Technology is becoming more and more prevalent in our everyday lives. We use technology to communicate, to log information, to entertain, and to keep track of essential dates and times. While there may be a number of applications that can help you in maintaining a healthy work-life balance, we have found a few essential tools that will change how you plan your day. 

In this episode we want to start a mini-series. We will take one digital tool to dive deeper into understanding the benefits, uses and how-to application for mastering your time, organization and productivity. 

The first digital tool that we recommend is Google Calendar. This is a free tool that is connected to your Google account and can be accessed from multiple devices. This tool will organize your time sensitive dates and establish reminders, keep notes, and share calendars with others to collaborate. You can even ( a TOP favorite) color code your calendars to organize your day-to-day events. 

In this episode we share: 

• Share the differences and benefits of using a digital calendar to a physical paper calendar
• Understand the benefits of a digital calendar to makes changes on important events
• Discuss how color coding can help with assigning specific events to an area in your life
• How sharing calendars offers an essential collaboration tool
• Discuss the variations for customizing your Google Calendar
• Give you step-by-step to creating and starting with your first calendar event

LINKS:

Google Calendar

Signing up for a Google account

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Until next time… be timely,  stay organized, and be productive… buh-bye… see ya!

Times have been tougher and for some the last year has been the toughest of their life. With families pulled apart and isolation that has affected us mentally and emotionally, COVID has changed us. Even to this day, while we are gaining our strength to get past the hardship, we are STILL being affected by this terrible illness. 

But, even when we go through terrible times there are still so many lessons that we can learn. We want to share the lessons that COVID has taught us. It is through these lessons that we are able to move on. However, we will never forget but instead take what we have learned to make us stronger. 

In this episode we share:

• The importance of being still without feeling the need to do more
• The importance of taken in our surroundings and appreciating the small moments
• Feeling grateful for normalcy
• Being creative with few resources
• Spending time with family and friends
• We are not just teachers, we are individuals
• The value that technology brings to education

Be sure to visit www.teachingonthedouble.com to stay up to date on new releases and upcoming events. 

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Are you ready to learn how to ONLY work your contract hours as a teacher!? This episode has been a long awaited one and we are so excited to share it with you. 

We also have a freebie that goes along with this episode. You can sign up and download  your 30 Days to ONLY Working Contract Hours guide right here. Follow this guide and you will be one step closer to working the hours you have been wanting to achieve. 

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We started just like so many other teachers, working countless hours and taking work home on the evenings and weekends. After years of trying to find a way to work ONLY contract hours we have done it! We have found the exact strategies and tools that can help you and that have also worked for us for the past year. 

In this episode we share:

• Our journey on working only contract hours
• The importance of finding a greater purpose
• How minimizing the amount of items you have can focus you and your time
• The value of dedicating your planning time to specific tasks
• Honing in on your own personal teaching style
• Collaborating with your team to work smarter, not harder
• Batching your work to get more done in less time

Check out Episode #008: Get More Done Using One Simple Trick to learn more about how you can use batching to do more in less time. 

Are you subscribed to our podcast? If you’re not, I want to encourage you to do that today. I don’t want you to miss an episode. Click here to subscribe to iTunes!

Now if you’re feeling extra loving, We would be really grateful if you left us a review over on iTunes, too. Those reviews help other people find our podcast and they’re also fun for us to go in and read. Just click here to review, select “Ratings and Reviews” and “Write a Review” and let us know what your favorite part of the podcast is. Thank you!

Have you been on a purging kick as much as we have? If not, we want to tell WHY you should jump on this train with us and give you some starting points on where to start. 

We have all either been, or seen a teacher who carries their “life” with them. You all know what we mean, the dreaded “teacher” bags that have every resource you need. It’s that bag that you end up packing up at the end of the day but never doing anything with it. 

So why get away from having so much stuff? Compare your bags to the idea of stress or weight that you are carrying, metaphorically. This is stress that you are taking with you back and forth from home and school. You are not able to escape it and therefore you have a constant reminder of the tasks you feel as though you should be doing instead of unwinding after a long day. 

The good news is that operating with less stuff is possible and in fact it allows you to be more creative and even DO MORE. Yup, we said it. You can do more with less!

In this episode we share:

• Why it’s important to minimize in order to feel less stressed. 
• How to begin minimizing what you are using.
• How less items can help build the separation from home and work. 
• What more “stuff” is teaching our students. 
• How more stuff is affecting our mental health.

Are you subscribed to our podcast? If you’re not, I want to encourage you to do that today. I don’t want you to miss an episode. Click here to subscribe to iTunes!

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One of the best parts of starting a new year is getting new supplies to help with our productivity. Well, it is no secret that we LOVE digital tools to help with productivity. Not only do you never have to worry about losing your things but you can have it everywhere you go without the bulk and weight of carrying physical items. 

We’ve narrowed down our TOP 5 favorite digital tools for you all in this episode. We share what the tool is, how we use it and how it can benefit you and your productivity. Now, keep in mind that we have been using these tools for several years. Start small and choose one tool to start with. As you become proficient and comfortable with using that tool then you can expand and begin including new tools. 

Make it a goal to use all 5 tools in 6 months and we know you will see a difference in your productivity and the weight of your bag!

In this episode we share:

• Our Digital Planner! 
• Google Calendar
• Notes App
• Google Drive
• Email Folders - No link but can be accessed on any email service provider

Are you subscribed to our podcast? If you’re not, I want to encourage you to do that today. I don’t want you to miss an episode. Click here to subscribe to iTunes!

Now if you’re feeling extra loving, We would be really grateful if you left us a review over on iTunes, too. Those reviews help other people find our podcast and they’re also fun for us to go in and read. Just click here to review, select “Ratings and Reviews” and “Write a Review” and let us know what is your favorite part of the podcast. Thank you!

We are celebrating ONE YEAR of our Podcast! In this episode we reflect on the adventure of starting a podcast and sustaining it over COVID.

We share our successes and challenges, and even discuss what it has been like working with one another. 

Thank you to all of our listeners for supporting us in this journey. We could not have done this without all of you!

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Happy Holidays TOP Teachers!

We are bringing you into our family traditions this Christmas Eve. We hope that despite the changes this year, you are safe and taking time to relax this holiday season. 

Listen in as Michelle and Bridget give you a glimpse into their traditions. Wishing you and your family all the best!

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It always seems that this time of the year flies by! Before you know it, it is the end of the year and you still have gifts to buy before your kids go on break. If you are listening to this and you are a teacher then you know the amazing array of gifts we can receive each year. From clothing items to an excess of coffee mugs we want to share what teachers would actually like for the holidays. In this episode we are sharing our favorite last minute gift ideas. 

But before we jump into the gift ideas please know that while almost all of the items we are going to mention are things you have to purchase, not all gifts have to be bought. Consider what you are able and willing to give to your child’s teacher or teachers in your building. 

LAST MINUTE TEACHER GIFT IDEAS:

• Thoughtful card from students or letter of appreciation
• Bath and Body works soap dispenser wrapped in a clear bag and filled with candies
• The Starbucks disposable coffee cup filled with candy and a gift card attached
• Target or Amazon gift cards are always appreciated!
• Sanitizers & Lotion combo
• Collection of the teacher’s favorite snacks (maybe throw in a code for a Redbox movie)
• Their favorite school supplies (cardstock, laminating sleeves, markers, etc.)
• Donate your time (offer to cut, laminate, etc.)
• Customized vinyl name left unused so that the teacher can apply to an item of his/her choice (if you don’t have one, see if a friend can make it for you)
• Something from their wishlist - such as Amazon (ask the teacher if they have one)

Remember, this is a time of year to show your love and appreciation to those around you. We hope these ideas have helped make this holiday season a little less stressful. 

Are you subscribed to our podcast? If you’re not, I want to encourage you to do that today. I don’t want you to miss an episode. Click here to subscribe to iTunes!

Let’s be honest with ourselves… one of the hardest parts of organization is the upkeep and the maintenance. Eventually, you start letting things slide and your system starts to fall apart. It’s human. But you have to acknowledge this when it happens and press the reset button to get yourself back on track. Today we are going to give you some strategies for pressing the reset button in your classroom, whether you are teaching in-person or virtually

With so much uncertainty right now, we have to think about the what-ifs. What if we get sick? What if we have to quarantine? The majority of schools are asking teachers to plan for those what-ifs and create sub plans that can last from anywhere between 5-10 days. To help you with this process, we’ve come up with 10 tips on how to write sub plans during a pandemic. 

TIPS FOR WRITING SUB PLANS DURING A PANDEMIC

Tip #1: Have materials in an easy to find location in your room (make this obvious!)

Tip #2: Put your plans in a Google Drive folder and share with teammates/admin for easy access

Tip #3: Have a list of typical routines and procedures that you use when teaching

Tip #4: Have a recorded lesson ready to go that can be used at any time

Tip #5: Develop a Flow for for each block of teaching

Tip #6: Schedule assignments ahead of time on your LMS so if you’re out, they are ready to go!

Tip #7: Have a list of student information readily available

Tip #8: Try to find a sub that is familiar with your school/students

Tip #9: Keep easy to use (theme) extras in your sub area

Tip #10: Consider sprinkling your students to other classes

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2020 has been a trying year for so many people and in so many ways. During times of uncertainty, frustration, and constant change your mindset can struggle to be positive on any given day. We have also felt a level of sadness and irritation this year, but we have also found strategies and coping mechanisms that have aided us to stay afloat and get things done. 

In this episode we are sharing our struggles with staying positive but also what has worked for us. 

• Bridget’s Struggles
• Michelle’s Struggles
• What Worked for Bridget
• What Worked for Michelle

The commonality is knowing and re-embracing our WHY. For so many of us the why behind becoming a teacher was to make an impact in our students’ lives. They are WHY we come to work, WHY we bury ourselves in professional development and creating lessons. Know your WHY. Embrace your why and you will find that you are able to get through just about anything. 

Find our Digital Teacher Planner at TeachingontheDouble.com

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Now if you’re feeling extra loving, We would be really grateful if you left us a review over on iTunes, too. Those reviews help other people find our podcast and they’re also fun for us to go in and read. Just click here to review, select “Ratings and Reviews” and “Write a Review” and let us know what your favorite part of the podcast is. Thank you!

We all have our go-to items that get us through the day. Since the spring of 2020 we have definitely had to make some changes in what and how we use our everyday tools. Today we will share 7 digital tools that you must be using whether you’re teaching in-person or virtually!

Be Sure to listen along to hear how we use these tools on a daily basis!

OUR TOP 7 TEACHING TOOLS

• Google Tasks
• Google Keep
• Digital planner
• Google Sheets
• Bookmarks on your internet browser (Chrome)
• Screen recording
• Virtual whiteboards

Find our Digital Teacher Planner at TeachingontheDouble.com

SUBSCRIBE & REVIEW

Are you subscribed to our podcast? If you’re not, I want to encourage you to do that today. I don’t want you to miss an episode. Click here to subscribe to iTunes!

Now if you’re feeling extra loving, We would be really grateful if you left us a review over on iTunes, too. Those reviews help other people find our podcast and they’re also fun for us to go in and read. Just click here to review, select “Ratings and Reviews” and “Write a Review” and let us know what your favorite part of the podcast is. Thank you!

2020 is the year of flexibility. Once we get going and things are looking great, new plans, different situations or a complete game plan change happens in the blink of an eye. One thing is for sure, teachers like routine and stability, but how can we possibly build any of this when we don’t even know what this year has to hold? 

We know that the year has been stressful and let’s be honest with one another, a lot of the time we don’t even want to think of the possibility of change because it only adds to our stress. However, if we view these new circumstances as opportunities to be flexible versus looking at it as change you’d feel better prepared and less stressed. 

HOW TO EMBRACE BEING FLEXIBLE:

[4:08] School/District Requirements

[10:27] Lesson Plans

[18:03] Students

[21:35] Parents

[25:56] Coworkers

CONCLUSION

This year is offering up a lot of challenges but when we take a step back and analyze the situation you will find that you have more control than what you think. With a little bit of prep work and creativity in how to make new situations work, you will regain control and positivity back in your day. 

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This year we are all trying our very best to put a smile on each day and get through all the changes and uncertainty that the year brings. In this episode we share our brutally honest thoughts on teaching during a pandemic.

Join us as we share the positives, negatives and how we are working to make it through the school year. 

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Now if you’re feeling extra loving, We would be really grateful if you left us a review over on iTunes, too. Those reviews help other people find our podcast and they’re also fun for us to go in and read. Just click here to review, select “Ratings and Reviews” and “Write a Review” and let us know what your favorite part of the podcast is. Thank you!

It’s fair to say that we have all made mistakes in our life. While we hate to make mistakes they help to make us better when we choose to learn from them. In this episode we are sharing two BIG mistakes that we have made when heading back to school. 

While we share our two mistakes we want you to keep one thing in mind: KISS, Keep It Simple Stupid. Teaching can often feel like a competition instead of a collaboration and while this is not done intentionally, it can manifest in so much that we do for our classroom and for our students. 

OUR TWO BIGGEST BACK-TO-SCHOOL MISTAKES

Mistake 1: Following trends we see on social media. AKA: Keeping up with the Jones’

Social media can be a place where innovation rises and new ideas spark excitement and motivation. As we have personally learned, social media can also be a place where new connections are made. However, social media can also cause us to feel pressure and distract us from our true purpose as a teacher. 

When feeling stressed because of what you are seeing on social media do these things instead:

• Stay off social media
• Remind yourself that it is easier to add on than to take away
• Best teaching practices aren’t always cute
• Your teaching ability is not determined by keeping up with the Jones’
• Teaching is not always about the materials but about the relationships you form

Mistake 2: Putting too much on our plates

Even when we are already feeling as though we have too much going on we still have a tendency to bring on more tasks. This is mainly because we don’t want to look as though we cannot do “all the things”. This can be from volunteering for activities, trying new things you see on social media or wanting to grow in multiple areas at once. This can lead to burnout and can even add pressures to your loved ones or your students. 

When feeling as though you are taking too much on do these things instead:

• Collaborate with other teachers as much as possible (synergy… 1 + 1 = 3)
• Choose one area to focus on (technology, parent communication, student wellbeing)
• Start with less and add more
• Limit how much you change in one year/at one time
• Practice self care

CONCLUSION

This year seems to add so much pressure on us with all the changes and adjustments that we are having to make as a teacher. It can be overwhelming and burn you out if you allow it to continue for too long. Remember to take a break away from work and try some of the strategies we mentioned to help ground you to what is really important. 

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Now if you’re feeling extra loving, We would be really grateful if you left us a review over on iTunes, too. Those reviews help other people find our podcast and they’re also fun for us to go in and read. Just click here to review, select “Ratings and Reviews” and “Write a Review” and let us know what your favorite part of the podcast is. Thank you!

The beginning of the year can be overwhelming, especially this year. Once summer comes to an end, finding a routine that gets you focused on school can be difficult. Today, we are sharing FIVE simple strategies that you can implement in order to transform your teacher productivity. 

5 SIMPLE STRATEGIES THAT WILL TRANSFORM YOUR TEACHER PRODUCTIVITY

• Strategy #1: Create a Power List for the Day
• Strategy #2: Complete a Technology Check
• Strategy #3: Follow the 2-Minute Rule
• Strategy #4: Take 5 Minutes to Clean Up at the End of the Day
• Strategy #5: Organize Materials for the Next Day

CONCLUSION

During various times of the year, it is important to take a few minutes and evaluate what you are doing on a daily basis that is directly related to your productivity. When you evaluate the motions to the day and pinpoint areas that need to be fine-tuned, you have a greater chance to maintain your productivity from day-to-day. 

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Now if you’re feeling extra loving, We would be really grateful if you left us a review over on iTunes, too. Those reviews help other people find our podcast and they’re also fun for us to go in and read. Just click here to review, select “Ratings and Reviews” and “Write a Review” and let us know what your favorite part of the podcast is. Thank you!

This year is unlike any year that we have taught, whether you are teaching in-person or virtual. As a result of the changes this year, we have to rethink our workspaces. Some of us are creating workspaces at home and others are having to redesign their classroom layouts in order to accommodate the new guidelines or needs. 

Whatever the case, your workspace is like your hub or home-base, and it is more important now than ever before to define your space so that it works for you and the ever-changing needs of the time that we are living in. 

ESTABLISHING A FUNCTIONAL WORKSPACE

What makes a workspace functional?

A functional workspace is a space that allows you to work at your very best by increasing your productivity. A functional workspace is also organized and clean so that you can work efficiently. Materials are laid out in a way that they are easily accessible and comfort is a priority to ensuring your mind and focus is where you need it to be. 

Keep in mind that this workspace does not have to be a desk. This is simply a designated space where you will be working that will help to notify and signal to your brain that you are focused on a specific task. 

Why is this important?

So why are functional workspaces so important? Having a functional workspace is going to help you in prioritizing your “stuff”. This will then allow you to increase your productivity in order to get the most done out of your day.

Let’s face it, we have A LOT going on right now. Our situations are constantly changing and in order to stay on top of the constantly moving field that we are in this year, we need to ensure that our workspaces are functional. 

How do we create a functional workspace?

Step 1: Choose a designated workspace

Step 2: Set up your necessary technology

Step 3: Create a list of materials for each task

Step 4: Organize materials in your workspace

Step 5: Maintain your workspace

CONCLUSION

Your workspace provides you with an area to establish routine, hold essential items that you will use on any given day, and create a space where you are able to focus to get your tasks done. Taking the time to define your space will increase your productivity. Just remember that as you work, you may need to periodically restructure or evaluate the needs of your workspace. Just as our lives change, our workspace may also need to adjust to accommodate those changes. 

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Now if you’re feeling extra loving, We would be really grateful if you left us a review over on iTunes, too. Those reviews help other people find our podcast and they’re also fun for us to go in and read. Just click here to review, select “Ratings and Reviews” and “Write a Review” and let us know what your favorite part of the podcast is. Thank you!

We get countless questions regarding how we manage to do it all. From getting things done to managing our teaching careers with our passions and businesses, we share it all! 

In this episode, we are answering YOUR questions, but because we had so many, we have organized them into three separate episodes. This is the third in our Q&A series. Be sure to check out Episode #030 where we answer your time management questions, and Episode #032 where we discuss our organization tips. 

In this episode we are sharing your productivity questions. We hope that you enjoy them!

YOUR PRODUCTIVITY QUESTIONS:

• How have you changed your ability/methods of “TOP” since your 1st years of teaching? From jaymie.nicole
• SPED teacher here: how do you balance the paperwork & lesson planning period? From kellseyo
• How do you manage to grade writing assignments in a timely fashion? They take forever! From teachuntilcontent
• Do you answer emails after school hours? From belenanmartin
• How do you prioritize your tasks? From onfireforchoir
• How far in advance should you be planning? From savannah_watson
• What are some digital tools that help you with organization and productivity? From grade3withmst
• How do you stay motivated on low/down/off days? From voraciousteacher & What are some ways to keep yourself motivated to complete a big task? From amber.bach17
• How to stay productive and organized when others may be loading more on your plate? From alf021
• What self care practices boost your productivity (in your experience)? From eeemilyp
• How do you deal with that one co-worker who drags down productivity? Major TSH for me!! From russellrmc
• What to do about things you can’t control? Ex: admin comes in and asks for report info ASAP throwing off your plan! Especially if team lead - happens a lot! From colorcodedenglishclass

CONCLUSION

Mastering the art of productivity is something we all strive for in our lifetime; however, it seems that at the exact moment when life is going the way we planned, everything instantly changes taking our productivity with it.  Understanding what building and sustains productivity is the key. Know your strengths, weaknesses and build from that to maintain the life that you want to live. 

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Now if you’re feeling extra loving, We would be really grateful if you left us a review over on iTunes, too. Those reviews help other people find our podcast and they’re also fun for us to go in and read. Just click here to review, select “Ratings and Reviews” and “Write a Review” and let us know what your favorite part of the podcast is. Thank you!

What if we told you that we have a BIG secret that will help you to reduce your paper flow, keep you more organized, and allow you to gain access to just about anything you may need from anywhere?

Our secret that can completely change how you use paper is to go DIGITAL!

That’s right. Going digital can solve just about any of the problems you may be having. We know that it can seem overwhelming and frustrating at times, but with time, knowledge and commitment, going completely digital can make a BIG impact on your time management, organization and productivity as a teacher. 

And guess what!? We have just the thing to help with that! 

[2:05] We have launched our own digital planner and Google Slides planner. With our love for planning and digital solutions, we have combined forces to develop the *dare we say it* perfect planner. We offer multiple formats, date ranges and we are excited to announce that we have also launched these in a Google Slides format for those of you that are die hard Google fans. 

Be sure to check out OUR STORE to see our planner line and get started going digital today!

[6:00] 10 WAYS TO START GOING DIGITAL

• [6:11] #1: Planner
• [9:02] #2: Checklists
• [13:10] #3: Student information
• [15:57] #4: Meeting notes
• [19:49] #5: Student assignments
• [24:23] #6: Student resources
• [27:22] #7: Exit tickets
• [30:11] #8: Permission slips/forms that have to be signed
• [30:54] #9: Surveys (parent information)
• [32:12] #10: Sign ups

CONCLUSION

While it may be a little intimidating to abandon paper copies, we don’t think it would be wise to completely go cold turkey right away. Start small by choosing one or two from the suggestions that we have listed today. As you become more comfortable with these areas, then you can look to add more. 

The trick in all of this is to “let go” of the paper. If you choose to do both then you will only feel more frustrated and overwhelmed. Not to mention that you will have various bits of information in multiple locations. 

We hope that you can begin taking the smaller steps towards joining us in the digital world. 

Don’t forget to check out our planners by visiting OUR STORE. 

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Now if you’re feeling extra loving, We would be really grateful if you left us a review over on iTunes, too. Those reviews help other people find our podcast and they’re also fun for us to go in and read. Just click here to review, select “Ratings and Reviews” and “Write a Review” and let us know what your favorite part of the podcast is. Thank you!

August and September is Back-to-School season. There are constant reminders and the desire to get new items to fill out classrooms and prepare our kids for heading back into the classroom. However, this season can be busy and costly.  Between purchasing new items for your classroom and for your  kids at home, everything adds up at the end of the day. Your time is being pulled in several different directions all in the hopes that the first day of school goes smoothly. 

But… we think we have some tips to help you simplify your back to school and save money in the process. 

[3:12] Tips for Simplifying Back to School

[3:26] Manipulatives

[9:47] Anchor charts

[16:36] Decor

[23:46] Teacher materials

CONCLUSION

There are many ways to simplify teaching. Your students don’t remember the amount of money you spent or the knick-knacks you purchased for a particular bookcase. They remember the relationship, conversation and the energy you have. Look for ways to be creative and get your students involved. Your students and your pockets will love you for it. 

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Now if you’re feeling extra loving, We would be really grateful if you left us a review over on iTunes, too. Those reviews help other people find our podcast and they’re also fun for us to go in and read. Just click here to review, select “Ratings and Reviews” and “Write a Review” and let us know what your favorite part of the podcast is. Thank you!

This year is totally different than any of us could've ever imagined. In fact, things may still be changing by the minute. We know that this is overwhelming no matter if you are in person teaching or teaching online; both of these formats have their own challenges. 

We also know that on top of being overwhelmed, you are probably feeling as though you have no control over anything right now, but we can assure you that there are some things that you STILL have control over. When you focus on what you CAN control over what you CAN’T, you will get more done and feel less overwhelmed. 

Remember, done is better than perfect. 

We have 5 Beginning of the Year MUST-HAVES (Even in a pandemic) for you all today! These 5 things that YOU DO have control over and can help you feel overwhelmed and more prepared for whatever is thrown your way. 

[3:26] 5 Beginning of the Year  MUST-HAVES (Even in a Pandemic)

[3:43] Student Login Information

[6:50] Student Checklists

[11:06] Parent Information/ Handbook

[20:31] First Week of School Activities

[24:30] New Student Kits

CONCLUSION

The beginning of the year is stressful, yes, but with a little planning, preparation and a strong focus on what you CAN control this year, you will find yourself feeling a little more prepared and hopefully, a little less stressed. 

HAVE YOU HEARD! 

[28:55] Our TOP Teacher Workshops are now available! We are excited to announce three workshops that are geared towards Time Management, Organization and Productivity. Each workshop is half an hour long and helps give you tangible steps that will help you in becoming the TOP teacher you want to be. You can purchase these individually or as a bundle over on www.teachingonthedouble.com.

Hurry, because these are ONLY available until September 13, 2020!

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Now if you’re feeling extra loving, We would be really grateful if you left us a review over on iTunes, too. Those reviews help other people find our podcast and they’re also fun for us to go in and read. Just click here to review, select “Ratings and Reviews” and “Write a Review” and let us know what your favorite part of the podcast is. Thank you!

We get countless questions regarding how we manage to do it all. From getting things done to managing our teaching careers with our passions and businesses, we share it all! 

In this episode, we are answering YOUR questions, but because we had so many, we have organized them into three separate episodes. This is the first episode has already been released, you can listen to episode #029 to hear all about how we manage our time management.  

In this episode we are sharing your organization questions. We hope that you enjoy them!

YOUR ORGANIZATION QUESTIONS:

• What organization system do you have in your classroom that you are most proud of? From mrsdennis_tw
• How long has it taken each of you to find the organizational style that fits your needs best? From sjohnson912
•  How to utilize a smaller classroom and stay organized. From loladasher
• What can I do when I have very little wall space? I think my wall with the most space is maybe 5 ft. From mosaicinthemiddle
• How to organize teaching items in an apartment. I can’t get into my school over the summer. From ashley.zundel86
• Any tips on how to get started with organizing in the middle of feeling overwhelmed to do it? From pencilsandmagicwands
•  How do you maintain organization when tired? From daniel_dadgumheels
• How do you stay organized in the middle of the busy day? I find myself just having papers everywhere at the end of the day. From taylor_leigh77
• What is a good way to keep up with the flow of papers in and out? From arkitchin
• How do you organize copies for the week/weeks out? From ourelementarydays
• What methods do you use to organize the resources you used throughout the year? From mswolfe5th
• Do you organize materials by month, unit, quarter, etc? From brookeashleyk
• How do you organize turned in work and work you need to grade? From mrsfoglesong
• What are some systems that you have used to deal with homework turn in? From khellokitty16
•  How do you organize student data in regards to formative assessments? From elizabethhaller
• What’s the best organization for individual student supplies? From plan2teach2nd
• What is the best way to organize holiday decor/activities? From nhopkin1
• I need classroom library organization tips! From maddiepizzuti
• How do you stay digitally organized? My files are all over the place. From miss.lisajordan
• How to organize things related to distance learning? From hel_chris_
• Tips for organizing emails? From ecallis74
• You have videos or organize lists and Google Drive. How do you organize hard copies? From fed120

CONCLUSION

Organization can be challenging and this challenge can lead to anxiety and frustrations in your productivity. Work on developing systems that work the best for you and ask yourself if you need all the things you currently have. Work to simplify your lifestyle and gain footing for making it through the school year with less stress and more motivation. 

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Are you subscribed to our podcast? If you’re not, I want to encourage you to do that today. I don’t want you to miss an episode. Click here to subscribe to iTunes!

Now if you’re feeling extra loving, We would be really grateful if you left us a review over on iTunes, too. Those reviews help other people find our podcast and they’re also fun for us to go in and read. Just click here to review, select “Ratings and Reviews” and “Write a Review” and let us know what your favorite part of the podcast is. Thank you!

There are those books that we’ve all heard of and read. Books like Twilight, Harry Potter and Fifty Shades of Grey (we know… so scandals!). However, the book that we want to share and discuss today is not as controversial as Mr. Grey, but it’s one that is very common in the category of self-discovery. 

To give a short summary, Stephen Covey is the author of the high acclaimed 7 Habits of Highly Effective People. This book outlines 7 habits that Covey believes are necessary to become an effective person. Keep in mind that this book, while it helps you with being productive, this book is so much more than this. In fact, this book helps you in all areas of life; think of this book as a way to help you become well-rounded. The book is broken into private victories (habits 1-3) and public victories (habits 4-6).

7 HABITS OF HIGHLY EFFECTIVE PEOPLE

Habit definition: A habit is the intersection of knowledge, skill, and desire. Knowledge is the theoretical paradigm (the what to do and the why). Skill is how you do it, and desire is the motivation (the want to do).

Habit 1: Be Proactive

Habit 2: Begin with the End in Mind

Habit 3: Put First Things First

Habit 4: Think Win-Win

Habit 5: Seek First to Understand, Then to be Understood

Habit 6: Synergize

Habit 7: Sharpen the Saw

CONCLUSION

We loved this book and highly recommend it as a read. If you feel as though you need a little push in order to become more productive but to also to develop a well-rounded lifestyle, this is a must read! If you enjoyed this episode be sure to check out the book 7 Habits of Highly Effective People by Stephen Covey. 

Grab your copy here!

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Are you subscribed to our podcast? If you’re not, I want to encourage you to do that today. I don’t want you to miss an episode. Click here to subscribe to iTunes!

Now if you’re feeling extra loving, We would be really grateful if you left us a review over on iTunes, too. Those reviews help other people find our podcast and they’re also fun for us to go in and read. Just click here to review, select “Ratings and Reviews” and “Write a Review” and let us know what your favorite part of the podcast is. Thank you!

We get countless questions regarding how we manage to do it all. From getting things done to managing our teaching careers with our passions and businesses, we share it all! 

In this episode, we are answering YOUR questions, but because we had so many, we have organized them into three separate episodes. This is the first of three episodes and we are going to answer all your time management questions. 

ANSWERING YOUR TIME MANAGEMENT QUESTIONS:

Below are the questions we have answered. Even if we did not get to answer all the questions that were asked you are able to gain some informative insight into how we manage our time.

• Have you got any tips for not working too much during quarantine? From arrustemaj1
• How do you balance your time away from school with school work on extended breaks? From ms.brittnidoyle
• How do you find the balance between planning ahead and being flexible? From hawth018
• How do you make the best use of your planning time? We have 40 minutes a day. From thecaffinatedcandidclassroom
• What time management tips do you have for a student working on his BA during quarantine? From edgar 780
• How to spend less time grading but still have a fair and accurate number grade for report cards? From jamiesloan14
•  How do I have my students have good time management but still do well in class? From teachwith_mrsguire 
• You seem very involved in school and other things. How do you balance it? From ali_malone4
• Can you go over creating a schedule for your planning to be more productive? From heathnoel34
• How do you make time for your podcast, tpt, etc. businesses on top of teaching? From wajwilliams4
• How do you manage to plan time for other obligations besides teaching? Ex: Youtube From teachingwithpositivity
• Top tip for 1st year teachers to establish work-life balance? I start my first job in August. From baker_girl_91
• How much prep time you have a week & how your contract hours compare to student hour From teachinginthegoldenstate
• Do you recommend planning your entire week ahead of time or preparing day to day? From arthur_dynasty
• How do you manage your time and stay productive in the summer? From scout1283
• What is the biggest time saving tip you can give? From dashielberkofficial

CONCLUSION

Time management is determining the value in return for each task that you complete in a given day. Ask yourself whether the task is helping you towards your goals, and define your time blocks to completing those tasks that get you closer. 

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Now if you’re feeling extra loving, We would be really grateful if you left us a review over on iTunes, too. Those reviews help other people find our podcast and they’re also fun for us to go in and read. Just click here to review, select “Ratings and Reviews” and “Write a Review” and let us know what your favorite part of the podcast is. Thank you!

We all have different seasons in life that we experience. This can be both literally and figuratively. As the seasons change, we have to change our schedules and routines. So while we may find a routine or schedule that works initially, it may not always stay that way. Listen to Michelle as you join her in a week in the life summer edition. She will talk you through planning out her days in order to reach goals in her business and on giving back to herself both mentally and physically. She will share some successes and processes for getting things done.  

SUBSCRIBE & REVIEW

Are you subscribed to our podcast? If you’re not, I want to encourage you to do that today. I don’t want you to miss an episode. Click here to subscribe to iTunes!

Now if you’re feeling extra loving, We would be really grateful if you left us a review over on iTunes, too. Those reviews help other people find our podcast and they’re also fun for us to go in and read. Just click here to review, select “Ratings and Reviews” and “Write a Review” and let us know what your favorite part of the podcast is. Thank you!

We all have different seasons in life that we experience. This can be both literally and figuratively. As the seasons change, we have to change our schedules and routines. So while we may find a routine or schedule that works initially, it may not always stay that way. Listen to Bridget as you join her in a week in the life summer edition. She will talk you through planning out her days in order to reach goals in her business and how to do this while having kids at home. She will share some successes and failures for the week and how she plans on getting things done.  

SUBSCRIBE & REVIEW

Are you subscribed to our podcast? If you’re not, I want to encourage you to do that today. I don’t want you to miss an episode. Click here to subscribe to iTunes!

Now if you’re feeling extra loving, We would be really grateful if you left us a review over on iTunes, too. Those reviews help other people find our podcast and they’re also fun for us to go in and read. Just click here to review, select “Ratings and Reviews” and “Write a Review” and let us know what your favorite part of the podcast is. Thank you!

There is something about summertime and the heat, especially, that seems to zap the energy out of you. Let’s be honest, who wouldn’t want to spend their days lounging around the pool reading a great book. However, the lazy days seem to bleed together leaving you feel unproductive and ill-prepared for the upcoming school year. 

We are in a new season of our life. Yes, we are talking about summer, but it is also important to know that seasons also relate to where we are in our lives; the circumstances that we are currently living in. With each season, both literally and figuratively, it’s important to change our routines to fit the needs we have at that particular point and time. 

We want to share our motivating and energizing summer routine that has allowed us to create structure and feel as though we are accomplishing goals but also enjoying our summer. 

• OUR WALK STORY
• OUR WHY 
• HOW THIS FITS INTO OUR DAY
• TIPS TO ENERGIZING AND MOTIVATING YOUR SUMMER ROUTINE

CONCLUSION

Keep in mind that we are not perfect in fact we have had a handful of times where we have to listen to our bodies and just rest. There is nothing wrong with that! The purpose of this is to make sure that you are making the most of your summer and to make sure that you have taken steps to feeling ready for the beginning of the school year. 

SUBSCRIBE & REVIEW

Are you subscribed to our podcast? If you’re not, I want to encourage you to do that today. I don’t want you to miss an episode. Click here to subscribe to iTunes!

Now if you’re feeling extra loving, We would be really grateful if you left us a review over on iTunes, too. Those reviews help other people find our podcast and they’re also fun for us to go in and read. Just click here to review, select “Ratings and Reviews” and “Write a Review” and let us know what your favorite part of the podcast is. Thank you!

Before the world was sent into a world-wide pandemic, many of us were content in our lives as paper-loving teachers. Suddenly, our world shifted and many of us were forced to accept the digital lifestyle. 

But instead of focusing on the inconveniences and the problems with everything moving to digital, we have to shift our mindsets and adapt by finding ways to overcome our grievances. Today, we are sharing some small changes that you can make in order to better organize your digital life. By taking these small steps you will feel more productive and be able to better manage your time. 

TIPS FOR ORGANIZING YOUR DIGITAL LIFE

Tip #1: Set Alarms

Tip #2: Set Times to Complete Specific Tasks

Tip #3: Streamline your Apps/Websites

Tip #4: Digitize your Paperflow

Tip #5: Utilize Templates

CONCLUSION

One of the biggest reasons so many of us have never fully committed to going digital is because we have never really had to do it. This is the time to get your feet wet and begin transitioning your life online. Start slow and small and build as you go. If you start trying too much too fast you risk feeling overwhelmed and frustrated and dropping it all together. 

SUBSCRIBE & REVIEW

Are you subscribed to our podcast? If you’re not, I want to encourage you to do that today. I don’t want you to miss an episode. Click here to subscribe to iTunes!

Now if you’re feeling extra loving, We would be really grateful if you left us a review over on iTunes, too. Those reviews help other people find our podcast and they’re also fun for us to go in and read. Just click here to review, select “Ratings and Reviews” and “Write a Review” and let us know what your favorite part of the podcast is. Thank you!

When you are thrown into new situations you cannot help but feel as though all the systems, routines and procedures you have created for yourself no longer function on your behalf. What once was a life that had some order and consistency has been thrown for a complete loop and left you feeling defeated. COVID-19 has caused so many teachers to feel hopeless and in need of a new routine. Hours have been spent searching for what new technologies can aid us in successfully doing our jobs. 

In this episode, we talk about specific materials, routines, or procedures that we have put in place that have helped us in regaining some of the order that we once knew while in a brick and mortar job. We share what has allowed us to be successful during online teaching but we also share what has allowed us to maintain that balance while working from home. 

We have to be honest with you all. 

When word was getting out that school may start to shut down, we were actually a little excited. Now hold on! We had NO idea what this was all going to turn into, but originally, we thought this was a chance to catch-up on things and to have a break. 

Fast-forward three months and here we are, still in quarantine-ish and trying to make it through to the end of the school year. That said, we’ve experienced some struggles and some victories during these last three months. 

Today, we want to share with you our struggles and victories during quarantine and distance learning. Be sure to listen in on the conversation. You might find that what you were/are struggling with is the same as ours. 

SUBSCRIBE & REVIEW

Are you subscribed to our podcast? If you’re not, I want to encourage you to do that today. I don’t want you to miss an episode. Click here to subscribe to iTunes!

Now if you’re feeling extra loving, We would be really grateful if you left us a review over on iTunes, too. Those reviews help other people find our podcast and they’re also fun for us to go in and read. Just click here to review, select “Ratings and Reviews” and “Write a Review” and let us know what your favorite part of the podcast is. Thank you!

Creating a work-life balance is something we, as teachers, have always strived for. It is something that before the pandemic of 2020 hit us, was something that was challenging. Now, working from home we are realizing that establishing a work-life balance is harder than ever before. 

Before, we had a clear line between work and home. We would wake up, go to work, leave work, and be home. Now, we work from home and live with work. The lines are blurry. Today, we want to share with you some tips that will help you during these crazy times of distance learning but can also carry over as we continue to work and establish our balance between work and life. 

TIPS FOR CREATING A WORK-LIFE BALANCE:

Tip #1: Stick to Your Work Hours

Tip #2: Establish a Workspace

Tip #3: Eat Lunch Away from Your Workspace

Tip #4: Check Emails in Batches

Tip #5: Develop a Routine

CONCLUSION

You have to remember that life is a balancing act. There will never be a secret recipe that works for EVERY season of your life. You will constantly have to readjust and make the work fit for what is happening now. Reflect on the changes that you have happening and adjust accordingly. 

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Now if you’re feeling extra loving, We would be really grateful if you left us a review over on iTunes, too. Those reviews help other people find our podcast and they’re also fun for us to go in and read. Just click here to review, select “Ratings and Reviews” and “Write a Review” and let us know what your favorite part of the podcast is. Thank you!

Listen in with Bridget as you join her for a week in the life of distance learning, being a mom, a wife and running two businesses while in grad school. Bridget talks all about projects and how she plans on managing those projects during the week in order to accomplish her big goals.

SUBSCRIBE & REVIEW

Are you subscribed to our podcast? If you’re not, I want to encourage you to do that today. I don’t want you to miss an episode. Click here to subscribe to iTunes!

Now if you’re feeling extra loving, We would be really grateful if you left us a review over on iTunes, too. Those reviews help other people find our podcast and they’re also fun for us to go in and read. Just click here to review, select “Ratings and Reviews” and “Write a Review” and let us know what your favorite part of the podcast is. Thank you!

We are getting so close to the end of the school year and with all the things that take place during the end of year, it's important that we begin planning for what the summer will look like for us and how we can best set ourselves up for starting the next year stress free and seamlessly. 

And if you are like so many teachers out there, you may not have access to your classroom the entire summer, and this means that you need to be even more prepared before you leave at the end of the school year. We have one simple trick that will help you be prepared to leave at the end of the year and get a head start on the next school year. 

We’ve all had experiences with setting up a first-aid kit, and we don’t create our first-aid kits as we are tending to our injuries. No. We do this in preparation for a time when we do get hurt and need to access the materials quickly. Getting a headstart on the next year is very similar to setting up a first-aid kit. The purpose is to get you prepared for what is going to come!

Unlike a first-aid kit, you need a decent size box or container to house all the materials in your Back-to-School kit. We have created a helpful checklist filled with categories and ideas that will help you get a jumpstart to filling your kit and to help give you ideas as you think of more items that work best for you and your classroom. 

CATEGORIES TO INCLUDE IN YOUR KIT:

[3:16] #1: Student materials with names

[7:10] #2: Student materials without names

[10:27] #3: Teacher materials

[12:55] #4: Instructional materials

Now, we recognize that this is a lot to get done before the end of the school year. Parents and volunteers are always so helpful during the end of the year. Ask for volunteers to make copies and begin prepping materials that you know you will need at the start of the year. 

And if the stress of getting this kit together is already starting to stress you out, please remember that you do not have to have this done by the end of the year. Consider taking this home with you and work on it over the summer. 

Just remember that you do NOT want to unload this box at home. This will open up the possibilities of losing items and things getting damaged. The box is truly meant to house your materials and keep things safe. 

CLOSING

The end and beginning of the year are the most stressful times for any teacher. Taking the appropriate measures to ensure that you have all the materials you need to make each one go smoothly is worth the extra time it takes to create a survival kit. 

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Now if you’re feeling extra loving, We would be really grateful if you left us a review over on iTunes, too. Those reviews help other people find our podcast and they’re also fun for us to go in and read. Just click here to review, select “Ratings and Reviews” and “Write a Review” and let us know what your favorite part of the podcast is. Thank you!

In our experience, there are two types of teachers when it comes to the end of the year. There are teachers who have everything packed up and their room is bare a few weeks before the school year even ends, and there are teachers who are staying several days after the school year ends to finish packing up their room because they didn’t get anything done ahead of time.

We want to help you find the happy medium. This means not starting too soon but  also not waiting until the last minute to be ready for the end of the year. We want to get you to the point where your room is still functional but also can easily be finished up when your students leave.

Let’s start by discussing some of the categories that you want to consider when preparing for the end of the year. Keep in mind that these are only some of the options. 

Also, we have a freebie for you! Be sure to sign up for our email list and you’ll receive our  End of the Year Checklist.

CATEGORIES FOR THE END OF THE YEAR

[4:46] Category #1: Events

[5:55] Category #2: Inventory

[7:20] Category #3: Paperwork

[8:43] Category #4: Organize

[9:46] Category #5: Clean

[12:09] Category #6: Purge

[13:36] Category #7: Electronics and Technology

[14:46] Category #8: Miscellaneous

[15:37] TIPS FOR TACKLING THE END OF THE YEAR RESPONSIBILITIES

CONCLUSION

Preparing for the end of the year is a lot! We know! But taking the time to get organized and create a plan of strategy will help to make all of your responsibilities and to-dos more manageable and less stressful. 

Don’t forget to download our End of the Year checklist to kickstart your planning. 

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While we may not be in the classroom right now, there is something very motivating and inspiring about listening to others get through a work week. 

Join Michelle Ferré in a week of teaching before COVID-19, and listen as she works to accomplish her goals and get things done. Michelle will share her tips and strategies that work for her as she gets through teaching, running a business, and completing grad school.

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Every teacher dreams of what their classrooms would look like. The thought of bringing your likes and splashes of personality to your room excites you as you begin looking for jobs. But this joy of having your own class quickly dims as the reality of the work, papers, clutter, and organization begin taking over. 

You realize, very quickly in fact, that those twenty-three bodies take up way more space than you originally thought, and don’t get us started on all the school supplies and learning materials! 

The reality of it all combined with the quick pace of the day makes you forget about the original vision you had and instead see what your classroom may really be, cluttered. 

5 MISTAKES THAT MAKE YOUR CLASSROOM LOOK AND FEEL CLUTTERED

[2:44] Mistake #1: Having Containers That Lack Functionality

[9:18] Mistake #2: Having Classroom Themes or Color Schemes that are NOT Cohesive

[14:30] Mistake #3: Having Mix Matched Labels

[19:06] Mistake #4: Displaying Trinkets and Decorations that DON’T Serve a Purpose

[24:10] Mistake #5: Filling Every Space

Our classrooms are like our second homes. We spend a lot of time in our classrooms and we want them to feel calm and inviting to guests and students. Hopefully by sharing some of the mistakes that we have made in the past, you will have the opportunity to avoid or begin transitioning your classroom into feeling less cluttered and more organized!

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Teachers all around the world are working to establish a new "normal" routine as schools are being shut down and teachers are asked to give instruction from home. 

Join Michelle as she invites you to see how she navigates being a teacher during the COVID-19 shut down. You will hear how she works to schedule her day, accomplishes her goals and has to make adjustments because things just happen. 

This is a week-in-the-life of a teacher at home. 

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Are you subscribed to our podcast? If you’re not, I want to encourage you to do that today. I don’t want you to miss an episode. Click here to subscribe to iTunes!Now if you’re feeling extra loving, We would be really grateful if you left us a review over on iTunes, too. Those reviews help other people find our podcast and they’re also fun for us to go in and read. Just click here to review, select “Ratings and Reviews” and “Write a Review” and let us know what your favorite part of the podcast is. Thank you!

The older that we get, the more we wish would have started certain things sooner. Like putting on that under eye cream to help prevent wrinkles or saving for retirement sooner. Just like in our everyday lives, we even have things we wish would have made sooner as teachers. 

We are sharing the 4 BIG organizational decisions that we wish we would have made sooner. Hopefully by us sharing these decisions, you might have an earlier start than we did or maybe even reconsider what you have been doing for years and finally make the switch!

4 BIG ORGANIZATIONAL DECISIONS

[3:42] Organizational Decision #1: Containers

[10:10] Organizational Decision #2: Anchor Charts

[16:34] Organizational Decision #3: Going Digital 

[23:46] Organizational Decision #4: Logging Materials

CONCLUSION

There will always be those decisions that we wish we would have made sooner. The important piece is that we don’t dwell on the past but instead look to the future and begin making those changes. Hopefully, sharing our decisions will help to shed some light on how you can improve what you are already doing or you’ve gotten a little bit of inspiration on something you never thought about doing before.

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We all love hacks that have a way to make your life a little bit easier. We have enough going on in our lives that finding simple ways to minimize friction is key. Gadgets are one way to create simple hacks to make life easier but no matter how fancy your gadget is, having hacks to help you with organization is essential. 

Today, we want to share some simple decluttering hacks that have worked wonders in getting us organized and more importantly, staying organized!

SIMPLE DECLUTTERING HACKS

[3:51] Decluttering Hack #1: Set a timer for 5-10 minutes and work through decluttering one area. 

[6:08] Decluttering Hack #2: Create a list of things you want to declutter during the month and make it a challenge

[7:22] Decluttering Hack #3: Focus on one area at a time

[8:07] Decluttering Hack #4: Use a bucket to gather things that need to be decluttered. 

[9:34] Decluttering Hack #5: Use your students to help 

[13:06] Decluttering Hack #6: Create a space for everything

CONCLUSION

[15:00] All of these hacks will give you the results you need, but we have to give a little tough love and say that if you do not have an organizational system, things will get messy! You have to have a system in play  in order to maintain the chaos that can be our lives. 

Check out episode #015: 5 Easy Steps to Clean and Organize Your Classroom to help you with the decluttering process. 

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Teachers all around the world are working to establish a new "normal" routine as schools are being shut down and teachers are asked to give instruction from home. 

Join Bridget as she invites you to see how she navigates being a teacher during the COVID-19 shut down, a mom to two boys at home and a wife to a work-from-home husband. 

You will hear how she works to schedule her day, accomplishes her goals and has to make adjustments because things just happen. 

This is a week-in-the-life of a teacher at home. 

We can probably all identify the areas in our classrooms that could use a little TLC, but actually doing the  action steps to getting it all done, without losing your sanity, is a whole other story. In our previous episode, we talked about the essentials areas in your classroom where you may want to give a little TLC in order for you to feel organized and refreshed. 

In this chat, we are sharing the actionable steps on how to follow through with the actual organizing we previously shared! 

***Also note, that these steps that we are sharing will work for any area in your life! We encourage you that as we share this during the COVID-19 shutdown you can find areas in your home where you can give a little TLC. 

Many of you have heard of Marie Kondo. She took the nation by storm with her systems for finding the joy in the objects around you, or maybe you’ve heard of Clean Sweep, the hit tv series where a team of experts help homeowners transform their homes from a disaster to functional. We LOVE these two methods and have decided to make our own little method by combining the two and calling it…. The Kondo Sweep!

Now let’s dive into The Kondo Sweep steps to organizing your space. 

STEP #1: Gather it

STEP #2: Sort it

STEP #3: Organize it

STEP #4: Store it

STEP #5: Label it

CONCLUSION

While the process of cleaning and organizing the materials in your classroom may seem like a treacherous task, when you have clearly defined steps, you can easily schedule what you are going to complete on specific days to reduce the overwhelm and make the task more manageable. 

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Winter is on its way out and that means that it is time to start spring cleaning! It never fails that when this time of the year comes around you start to feel the itch. You know, the feeling where you need to clean absolutely EVERYTHING in sight. 

However, if you are someone that starts to feel very overwhelmed by the thought of having to start cleaning and organizing your classroom, we’ve got you covered. 

We are sharing our TOP must do when cleaning your classroom. Keep in mind that if this is a daunting task, recruit help from friends, family, or even coworkers by exchanging a I help you, if you help me deal. 

CLASSROOM SPRING CLEANING MUST DOs

[3:53] MUST DO #1: Teacher supplies

[9:57] MUST DO #2: Paper filing system

[14:09] MUST DO #3: Manipulatives

[16:24] MUST DO #4: Teacher bag

[18:12] MUST DO #5: Digital files

Spring cleaning, while refreshing, can be very overwhelming, but remember that you need to go easy on yourself. These tasks do not need to be completed in a day! Choose one area and work on it over the span of a week or a few days. The important thing is to make it fit you and your lifestyle, but you MUST hold yourself accountable and get it done!

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Have you ever reflected on your past and thought, I regret doing that as a kid, or I regret not going out more and being with my friends? Chances are there is probably something out there that resonances with you in this fashion. There is a quote that reads, There are no regrets in life, just lessons.

This cannot be more true for everyone. Our lives no matter how imperfect they belong to us. It is what has molded us to the person we are today. Instead of dwelling on your regrets in life, think of them as life lessons that will help to guide your future. 

We cannot change the past, but we have every bit of power to change the future. 

OUR BIGGEST REGRETS AND THE LESSONS LEARNED

[5:26] Spending large amounts of time and money

[ 7:45] Creating Resources and Materials

[12:16] Keeping up with the Jones’

[17:16] Staying late to get things done

[20:32] What do we wish we had done?

CONCLUSION

We will always make decisions in our lives and careers that will not fit our goals. What is important to remember is that we cannot dwell on the past and the decisions that have already been made. It is better to see those decisions as life lessons and begin making a change that will continue to make our future brighter. 

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We pack our bags at the end of a school day with full intentions of grading the quizzes from math class that day, reading the novel that you just started with your group, or cutting out the circles that you need for tomorrow’s craft in science. 

You take the treacherous walk to your car carrying your backpack, lunchbox, purse and now a bag filled with things to do. You drive up to your home and you suddenly feel this overwhelming feeling of tiredness. You still have so much to do, but instead of taking the actionable items out of your teacher bag you flop on your couch and turn Netflix on. It is so much easier to avoid the things we have because let’s face it, it’s not like you’ve been working all day *note the sarcasm. However, not getting the tasks done in our bags only leaves us stressed out and overwhelmed. 

[3:23] TIPS TO FEEL MOTIVATED WHEN YOU ARE TIRED

[4:01] TIP #1: Reflect on your WHY

[6:44] TIP #2: Write the things you need to do down

[10:33] TIP #3: Start with one small thing

[12:38] TIP #4: Reduce distractions and change your scenery

[15:29] TIP #5: Surround yourself with things you enjoy

[19:01] TIP #6: Set a timer and work for that set amount of time

[22:12] TIP #7: Take short breaks

[24:23] TIP #8: Plan a reward for yourself

[28:01] TIP #9: Get active

[29:55] TIP #10: And if all else fails, take a power nap

CONCLUSION

Motivation can be difficult to find, but hopefully one or more of these tips help to inspire you to try and build the willpower to accomplishing that pesky tasks on your to-do list. Even if you are feeling completely defeated, try and find something that inspires you. Remember, we have all been there at one point in our lives; just know that there is a brighter side to the end of the rainbow. 

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For a full transcript and show notes visit www.teachingonthedouble.com/012

We’ve all had those moments when we wake up and we already know that attempting to make through to the day with our 20+ students is just NOT going to happen. This is where you fall under two categories: 1. You begin stressing out because you have nothing ready but need to somehow will yourself to get your plans together for a sub or 2. You have all your things laid out and ready to go so that anyone walking in can easily pick up where you left off. 

Which are you? 

Have your lessons and materials ready to go before you leave the next day can not only help you in emergency situations but it can also help you to feel less stressed and happier. The struggle is just getting to the point where this becomes a habit and not a chore. 

In today’s episode, we are discussing the steps you can start taking today in order to feel prepared for the next. 

It’s probably no surprise that checklists are an easy way to always ensuring that you are leaving feeling prepared. This was you don’t forget to leave something off on those days where your brain is a bit foggy or flustered and it becomes somewhat of a ritual for you. The benefit of having a checklist is that you can re-use it time and time again. We also love that you can share this checklist with your teacher-bestie and on those days where things just don’t go as planned you always have someone there who has your back!

[5:47] STEPS FOR CREATING A CHECKLIST

[5:59] Benefit of a checklist over a to-do list

[7:38]Step #1: Find a repetitive task to create a checklist for

[8:44] Step #2: Write down all of your steps as you are doing it

[11:09] Step #3: Find ways to minimize your checklist

[13:09] Step #4: Store your checklist

[15:47] Step #5: Use it and reset it

CONCLUSION

Once you solidify your checklist, you can use it on a daily basis and know that you have finished everything you need to finish in order to be prepared for the next day! This means that you can leave school feeling stress-free!

Don’t forget to go back and revise as you find that your needs are changing for that routine. We find that we did more for our learners at the beginning of the year than at the end of the year. So because their needs changed, our routines changed. 

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We have all felt it. You know. That feeling of success and that feeling of complete and utter defeat. When you feel really good in one area, another area suffers, and this leads you to feel self-doubt and anxiety that you are not performing the way that you should be. The answer is not to be good at everything or get all the things checked off your to-do but more about finding the balance that works for you and those individuals that are in your life. 

This is the one thing that so many people ask us: “How do you do it all?” People see us and the videos we put out, but they don’t realize that we had to sacrifice a date night or got into an argument for working too hard in order to make it happen. All you see in our social media presence are happy moments. 

Now while you may not be on social media, you still have a lot of parts that you play in your own life. All those parts require your attention and in order to ensure that you slow it down and pay attention to your mental and physical health, we have some tips on how to feel like a good teacher without feeling overwhelmed. 

[4:46] Tips for Feeling Like a good Teacher, Mom, Wife, etc… Without Feeling Overwhelmed

[5:20] Tip #1: Stop comparing yourself to other teachers

[8:07] Tip #2: Let go of perfectionism

[10:38] Tip #3: Say no to some things so you can say yes to other things

[13:55] Tip#4: Stop moving the goal post

[15:38] Tip #5: Return the focus to your students

Above all, remember that what you give every day in and outside of the classroom is appreciated by so many. You are making a difference and giving back. Stop being like everyone else and instead be you. There is, after all, only one you.  

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We all have those teachers in our buildings. You know. The ones that have it all together and are able to leave no more than 20 minutes after the kids are dismissed. They seem so cool, calm and collected and have every resource printed and ready to go. 

Each time you see them, you secretly wonder “How. How are they able to do it all?” You beat yourself up because you wonder what you are doing wrong and why you can’t be like that teacher. We have all felt this way at some point in our careers. Our goal is to help give you strategies so that you can be that teacher. 

We’ve broken down this topic into three important categories: Time, Productivity and Organization. See what we did there?

[5:00] TIME

• [5:06] Using Micro-Productivity
• [6:56] Batching 
• [9:42] Plan to Tackle Your To-Dos

[10:59] ORGANIZATION

[18:32] PRODUCTIVITY

Visit www.teachingonthedouble.com/009 for the show notes, transcript and resources from this episode!

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Batching is our JAM! When you understand the power of batching and utilize it to help you gain back your time and feel less stressed, you will never want to go back to your normal to-do list again!

In our episode How to Lesson Plan Like a PRO, we talked about the power of project planning and in there we gave you a teaser that this week was all about batching. For all those out there that are already batching their work, they will tell you how it has helped them to become more efficient. It’s true. 

When you bake cookies, you don’t bake one cookie at a time. NO! You batch them. This is how you need to view your productivity. When you batch your work your productivity increases and that leads to less stress and a happier YOU. 

[1:37] But first! We want to hear your Time Sucking Hurdles! Be sure to click here to share your Time Sucking Hurdle with us and you can be featured in our next episode. 

[4:00] In our last episode we talked a little about multitasking versus task-switching, and before we move on to the steps to get you started with batching, we want to revisit what this means. For those of you out there thinking that you are fantastic multitaskers and you don’t need batching, what if we told you that you are not truly multitasking? In fact, what if we told you that you are actually task-switching?

Multitasking is the act of completing two tasks at once. For instance walking and chewing gum. Sweeping and talking on the phone. Those are examples of multitasking.

Task-switching is the act of moving back and forth from one task to the next. Your brain never really gets to focus on one thing because it doesn’t have enough time to process what it is doing. 

Batching helps to prevent task-switching and gets your brain laser-focused on one “like” task. So let’s stop task-switching! #LetsStopTaskSwitching

Now you’re probably wondering what you can actually do for batching. Well, we’ve got you covered because there are so many areas that you can batch in your life! Answering emails, grading, lesson planning, copies, and laminating are only a few ideas that will get you started. You can also head over to the home page and signup for our 7 Ways to Jumpstart Your Teacher Productivity freebie and get so many more ideas!

Now let’s jump into these steps. 

5 Steps to Getting More Done

[8:15] Step #1: Plan Ahead

[10:26] Step #2: Decide How Long it Should Take

[12:45] Step #3: Choose a Time to Batch

[16:14] Step #4: Gather All of Your Materials

[18:00] Step #5: Get it Done

[21:22] Review the Steps

CONCLUSION

Remember that batching works best for projects that can be broken down to those like tasks. The hardest part is planning. Taking the time to plan each of these steps will ensure that you are successful, but we are confident that if you do follow these steps you will see the reward greater than you can imagine. 

Let us know what batching has done for you! Be sure to leave a comment here or over on iTunes!

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This is a topic that we think you all are going to absolutely LOVE! Today, we are talking about lesson planning. Yup. We said it. Lesson Planning. We want to dive deep into getting your lesson plans done so that you can leave on Friday feeling ready for the next week. 

But here is the thing, lesson planning is NOT a to-do. It’s not something you write to write down on your checklist because lesson planning is a project. In this case, it is a recurring project. When we understand that lesson planning is a project then we are more capable of tackling it with a separate process. A process that is unique to project planning. 

Now, if you are already asking the question, “Am I able to apply this to any project?” Absolutely! You can! We are using lesson planning as an example for this episode because it is a project that EVERY teacher has on their plate, but you can use these steps for any project no matter if it is a one-time project or recurring project. 

7 Steps to Lesson Planning Like a PRO!

[6:50] Step #1: Define your End

[8:37] Step #2: Set Your Deadline

[10:13] Step #3: Brain Dump

[14:03] Step #4: Create a List of Materials

[15:28] Step #5: Group Related Tasks Together

[19:10] Step #6: Find the Time to Batch

[20:20] Step #7: Monitor Your Progress

[20:58] Review of the Steps

CONCLUSION

Leaving school at the end of the week knowing that your plans are ready all the way down to the copies is truly life-changing, but it’s not rocket science. In fact, it’s quite simple when you break things down into actionable steps that allow you to see the whole process. Give this a try and be sure to share how it has worked for you!

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We’ve all experienced the Neverending To-Do List. The list that makes you feel as though you can’t breathe and your heart is falling to the pit of your stomach. We have also experienced the satisfaction of marking items off of our to-do list and feeling the accomplishment that follows. 

A To-Do list is an incredibly useful tool. It helps to keep our focus, provides us with things to accomplish when our brains are not functioning properly. A good to-do list also frees up space within your brain. Our brains, the majority of the time, cannot remember every to-do that you have thought of within any specific time frame. This is what causes the dreaded feeling of what was I getting?  at the grocery store. 

When we take the time to really think about all the tasks that we need to accomplish and we write them down, you also become more present at the moment and dare I say, sleep better. 

So we know that a good to-do list is valuable. We know that we can feel less stressed when we have one, but how do you ACTUALLY get those items checked off? 

[3:50] Steps to ACTUALLY finishing your To-Do list

[4:05] Step #1: Get it Down

In this step, the focus is on how to get your to-do’s down. Writing them on random pieces of sticky notes and leaving them around the classroom, may not be as productive as you’d think. 

[13:20] Step #2: Sort It

Once you have your to-dos created and in one location, it is time to sort your lists. This step will help you to get rid of distraction and focus on accomplishing the to-dos that need your attention the most. 

[13:55] The method that we use and that we find to be quite useful is The Eisenhower Method for Taking Action. 

[16:05] If that method seems to overwhelm you a bit, start smaller by creating three categories: needs to be done today, needs to be done this week, and needs to be done this month. 

[20:05] Step #3: Schedule It

When are you going to do it? Yes, you have your list and you have them sorted into the most important tasks, you still need to determine when you are going to do it. 

[22:35] Step #4: Get It Done

Now, it’s the hardest part! Getting the list done. You have the tools, you know the strategies, but now it’s up to you to get it all done! Again, be like Nike and just do it!

Keep in mind that with these to-do’s you do not want to have tasks that are recurring. These to-dos should be built into your schedule already. These are tasks that come up time and time again and not only do they have a place in your schedule but they also have their own checklist. Adding every time that you can think of will only overwhelm you. 

We will be sharing more about the projects or recurring to-dos later on in another episode! We hope that you feel inspired and equipped to tackle your to-do’s and take control of your time! 

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We all know that the line of work that we are involved in *teaching* can be incredibly exhausting. We give so much of ourselves through our time, energy, understanding, heart, and we bare the burden of so many. 

Therefore, it’s of no surprise that we take the time to remind ourselves of the importance of taking time for YOU. The more you give, the more time you need to recoup and regain your strength in order to continue giving day in and day out. 

So, let’s chat about not only the why  of putting yourself first, but also the how to put yourself first. These may be things that you know or have heard before but we all need reminders to ensure that we are following through. 

[2:32] THE WHY

Listen and learn about the key reasons on why it is critical that you are giving back to yourself. These will be reminders but they just might be the reminders that you need. 

[5:00] THE HOW-TO

Learn how we give back to ourselves! We share some of our favorite ways to make sure that we are thinking about us. 

Don't forget to head over to www.teachingonthedouble.com/005 to grab the FREEBIE and begin treating yourself today!

[11:40] GETTING IT ALL DONE

But what about getting it all done? Well, that is going to require some responsibility and commitment on your part. We share a few tips to help get you started!

CONCLUSION

Remember that in order for us to take time for ourselves, we also have to hold ourselves accountable in other ways, but if you feel like you are drowning,  stop, breathe, and think about you. Refill that cup in order to pull yourself up on that raft at the end of the day. 

SUBSCRIBE & REVIEW

Are you subscribed to our podcast? If you’re not, I want to encourage you to do that today. I don’t want you to miss an episode. Click here to subscribe in iTunes!

Now if you’re feeling extra loving, We would be really grateful if you left us a review over on iTunes, too. Those reviews help other people find our podcast and they’re also fun for us to go in and read. Just click here to review, select “Ratings and Reviews” and “Write a Review” and let us know what your favorite part of the podcast is. Thank you!

In today’s episode, we are going to tackle the key ingredients in order for you to have the absolute best week ever! 

We all strive to have a great week. The kind of week where everything just seems to work in your favor and goes incredibly smoothly. From the copies, behaviors and mindset, everything seems to be perfect, but the reality is that life is very much like a drive through town. Some days can feel as though you are hitting every red  light on the street and others can feel like you are zooming to your destination. 

[3:37] BE PREPARED

[7:37] BLOCK YOUR DAY FOR YOU TIME

[11:07] SPEND TIME CONNECTING WITH STUDENTS

[14:32] FEEL POSITIVE AND MOTIVATED

[18:32] FEEL PRODUCTIVE

Be proactive to minimize the impact of stress. Every choice you make directly impacts the week that you will have. So no more putting things off! Get focused, stay positive and be the TOP teacher that you want to be. 

SUBSCRIBE & REVIEW

Are you subscribed to our podcast? If you’re not, I want to encourage you to do that today. I don’t want you to miss an episode. Click here to subscribe in iTunes!

Now if you’re feeling extra loving, We would be really grateful if you left us a review over on iTunes, too. Those reviews help other people find our podcast and they’re also fun for us to go in and read. Just click here to review, select “Ratings and Reviews” and “Write a Review” and let us know what your favorite part of the podcast is. Thank you!

If you’ve listened to episode #002 then you’ve learned our 5 ways to help build an effective morning routine, and while having a morning routine is critical to jumpstart your day on the ‘right foot’, having an evening routine to decompress from the day’s activities and all around *craziness* can be, arguably, more important.  

In today’s episode, we are sharing our evening routines and the differences and commonalities between them both. 

Now here is our disclaimer, THIS WILL LOOK DIFFERENT FOR EVERYONE. 

We are not all built the same way, have the same needs, lifestyles, habits or family and we need to be mindful of this. We also need to STOP guilting teachers for how they are choosing to spend their evenings. We can’t tell you how many times we’ve been shamed for not spending enough time with our husbands or kids. That is not okay. 

What’s important is how we reflect and consider all the factors happening around us in order to ensure that we are taking time for ourselves, however that may look. So while we give you an idea of what our evenings look like from the time our students leave us to the point we are in bed, remember to consider your lifestyle and what YOU need. 

[4:19] BRIDGET’S EVENING ROUTINE

[14:22] MICHELLE’S EVENING ROUTINE

[22:38] After we shared our very different evening routines, we found some strong commonalities; so let’s take some time to discuss those commonalities and see if you have those built into your own evening routine. If you don’t, you may want to consider how to incorporate them in the future. 

[23:22] First, we noticed that neither of us take anything home.

[23:44] Second, we clear our tables for the next day.

[24:30] Do something for YOU!

CONCLUSION

The most important thing to remember when you are leaving for the day and trying to destress is that you have to be focused and present during the day in order to make this work. This means staying away from the teacher’s lounge or office. Decreasing the hallway chats or the periodic scrolls through instagram. 

You have to get focused and be intentional with your day so that you have the opportunity to truly destress and focus more on you at the end of the day. 

SUBSCRIBE & REVIEW

Are you subscribed to our podcast? If you’re not, I want to encourage you to do that today. I don’t want you to miss an episode. Click here to subscribe in iTunes!

Now if you’re feeling extra loving, We would be really grateful if you left us a review over on iTunes, too. Those reviews help other people find our podcast and they’re also fun for us to go in and read. Just click here to review, select “Ratings and Reviews” and “Write a Review” and let us know what your favorite part of the podcast is. Thank you!

We are huge fans of watching videos on morning routines for all types of individuals from all different fields. There is something about getting to peek into their lives and seeing how they do it. You might call it creepy or even a little more stalkerish, but we call it research for building the ideal morning experience and ensuring that you start the day with a positive mindset. 

We went through countless videos of morning routines and even analyzed our own routines and we were able to identify five major components to ensure that you start your day off right. We are going to chat through each component and give some examples. 

As always, remember, you need to do what works for you, but if we are standing in front of you saying that this works find a way to fit in and give it a shot (a good shot, not a half one) to making it work. 

Let’s dive in! OH! Keep in mind that these may not necessarily go in the exact order as well. 

[ 4:50] #1: Time to get grounded

[ 10:10] #2. Time to review your schedule

[ 13:27] #3. Time to Review Your Power List

[ 19:33] #4. Time to Review Your Materials

[ 27:07] #5. Time to Get Motivated

Routines are important, they hold us together doing the craziest of times and they ensure that we are always performing our best work, but keep in mind that it is called a routine because we do this on a regular basis. Only then can we expect the routine to work for our lifestyle. 

For a full explanation or to download the transcript of the podcast visit: www.teachingonthedouble.com/002

SUBSCRIBE & REVIEW

Are you subscribed to our podcast? If you’re not, I want to encourage you to do that today. I don’t want you to miss an episode. Click here to subscribe in iTunes!

Now if you’re feeling extra loving, We would be really grateful if you left us a review over on iTunes, too. Those reviews help other people find our podcast and they’re also fun for us to go in and read. Just click here to review, select “Ratings and Reviews” and “Write a Review” and let us know what your favorite part of the podcast is. Thank you!

A new year makes so many of us reflect back on the year that we are leaving behind  and think about what could be different in the new year. It's a time for new opportunities, new experiences and resolutions that make us happier and more successful as individuals and in our professions.

However, reality comes flooding back quickly and what we dreamed of doing to make the year better is left as a burden of “more things” that need to get done. 

That is why we need to rethink New Year’s Resolutions and instead view our lives as small goals and habits. 

WHAT IS A GOAL AND HABIT?

[2.47] A goal in its simplest form is simply a result of some ambition that we had at some point in our lives. Graduating top of my class was a goal and I achieved it, but once it is achieved then we move onto something else to continuously become more successful. 

[3.30] A habit on the other hand starts as a choice and becomes an unconscious decision; meaning, it becomes a part of your daily routine that you no longer have to make an effort to complete that task. 

In so many cases, you have to create new habits in order to reach goals, which is why they go hand in hand. 

STEPS TO BUILDING HABITS

Head over to www.teachingonthedouble.com/001 to get hire examples and the free habits tracker.

[5.20] Step 1: Set a goal and break it down

[9.18] Step 2: Create a System

[11.28] Step 3: Track your progress

[15.30] Step 4: Evaluate your progress 

SUBSCRIBE & REVIEW

Are you subscribed to our podcast? If you’re not, I want to encourage you to do that today. I don’t want you to miss an episode. Click here to subscribe in iTunes!

Now if you’re feeling extra loving, We would be really grateful if you left us a review over on iTunes, too. Those reviews help other people find our podcast and they’re also fun for us to go in and read. Just click here to review, select “Ratings and Reviews” and “Write a Review” and let us know what your favorite part of the podcast is. Thank you!