As a childcare director and owner with over 25 years of experience, I know a thing or two about running on fumes. From not taking vacations to skipping lunches, coming in sick, and all the rest that comes with the field, I've experienced it firsthand. Unfortunately, there’s a thin line between providing excellent customer service and self-preservation. Over the past year, I’ve had to make several changes to my routine, and I’ve found a way to be responsive to my team, families, and community while preserving my own needs. But it hasn’t been easy. I’ve learned that maintaining a healthy work-life balance isn’t just a luxury; it’s essential. And though it’s challenging, finding that balance has allowed me to lead with more energy, enthusiasm, and focus than ever before.
Here’s the thing: the funniest part is that none of the tips I’m going to share are secrets. The real secret is in implementing them consistently and not going backwards when you slip off your routine. Let’s face it—you’re human, and you’ll fall back into old habits. I’m no exception. But that doesn’t mean you can’t make lasting change.
I think one of the best things you can do for yourself is to invest in reciprocal relationships. Connect with people who not only support you but encourage you to support yourself. You can be your biggest hero or your biggest obstacle. So, get out of your own way. I remember a particularly challenging period where I was stretched so thin I barely had time to breathe. It was a mentor in my life who reminded me that I could not pour from an empty cup. Her words stuck with me, and I realized that prioritizing my well-being wasn’t selfish—it was necessary.
A recent report from the National Education Association (NEA) reveals that educator burnout has reached alarming levels in 2024, with nearly 75% of teachers reporting feelings of burnout due to the increased demands of the job and a lack of support. While this statistic focuses on educators, the same pressures affect childcare directors and providers. The demands are constant, the expectations high, and often, the recognition falls short. But just as we work to nurture and care for others, we must remember to nurture ourselves. As the NEA report states, “A supportive work environment, manageable workloads, and self-care are essential to combatting burnout and promoting long-term success in the field.”
In my own journey, I’ve found that prioritizing self-care and setting boundaries is the key to preventing burnout. This includes establishing specific work hours, taking regular breaks, and being intentional about time off. The American Psychological Association (APA) suggests that learning to say no and setting clear expectations for yourself and others is vital for preserving your mental and emotional health.
It’s important to remember that you're not alone in this. Building a strong support system within your team is critical. Delegate administrative tasks, parent communication, or classroom management to trusted staff members. According to Dr. Richard E. Boyatzis, a professor at Case Western Reserve University, “Effective leaders understand that collaboration and empowerment of others is one of the key ways to reduce burnout and improve performance.” Similarly, connecting with peers—other childcare directors who understand your challenges—can help reduce feelings of isolation and provide fresh ideas and strategies for managing stress.
So, if this is your year to make meaningful changes while staying in the field you love, let’s connect. Join our private community on Facebook at (7) The Childcare Directors Chair Leadership Group | Facebook, and say hello. Let’s see what we can do together to create some magic for 2025. Together, we’ll find the balance between caring for others and caring for ourselves. You deserve it.
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