85. Beware of the Grinch Mentality

 In this episode of The Next Level Teacher, Brenna dives into something every educator slips into from time to time: complaining. While venting can feel harmless—or even helpful—there’s a hidden cost most teachers don’t realize. If you’ve been feeling stuck in negativity, overwhelmed by challenges, or drained after conversations with coworkers, this episode unpacks why—and what you can do about it. Inside, you’ll learn: **What complaining actually does to your brain**How chronic negativity affects memory, mood, decision-making, and stress**Why even listening to complaining can drain your energy**The neuroscience behind “neurons that fire together, wire together”**Simple ways to shift out of the “Grinch mentality”**Four practical strategies to retrain your brain toward resilienceThis episode is packed with teacher-friendly neuroscience, empowering mindset shifts, and realistic steps you can start using today. Mentioned in this episode: → Calm in the Classroom, Brenna’s step-by-step course to help teachers feel calmer, more grounded, and more in control.