Can Kindness to Yourself Save Your Teaching Career?

In this episode of Beat Teacher Burnout, I’m joined by George Athanasiou, former headteacher and wellbeing consultant, for a powerful conversation about why so many educators are overwhelmed and what we can realistically do about it. George talks openly about the exhaustion sweeping through schools, the guilt that keeps teachers pushing past their limits, and the pressure leaders face in trying to support everyone while barely holding themselves together. We explore how burnout builds slowly, why self-care must start with basic regulation like breathing and rest, and how mindset shifts only work once the body feels safe again.George introduces simple but impactful strategies for protecting energy: taking genuine breaks, saying “no” without guilt, focusing on what actually matters, and finding small moments of creativity to reconnect with the joy of teaching. His Cha Cha Cha framework Children, Choice and Challenge offers a beautifully simple way to plan lessons that feel purposeful rather than draining.We also discuss the role of technology and AI in reducing workload and bringing back the spark of creativity that many teachers feel they’ve lost.This conversation is honest, practical and deeply human, a reminder that thriving isn’t selfish, it’s essential. And sometimes, the first step really is as simple as one breath, one boundary or one small act of kindness toward yourself.Connect with George AthanasiouFacebook: https://www.facebook.com/georgeeducationalconsultantWebsite: https://www.educationalconsultancy.net/Follow me on:1. Instagram: @rowenaphicks2. Facebook: Rowena Hicks3. Linked In: Rowena HicksEmail me: [email protected] Visit my website for Books, Journals, Free Community and lots of other interesting stuff: www.rowenahicks.co