Negative Self-Talk & Setting Boundaries | Sir, You Look Tired

Welcome back to "Sir, You Look Tired"! In this episode, Martin and Dan dive deep into the realities of teaching—tackling negative self-talk, burnout, and the importance of setting boundaries. They share honest stories from the classroom, from early career anxieties and staff room politics to the everyday pressures that come with the job.Whether you’re a new teacher struggling with comparison, a leader juggling impossible expectations, or just someone who’s ever felt overwhelmed by school life, this episode is packed with practical advice, relatable moments, and plenty of laughs. Discover tips for managing emails, handling staff WhatsApp drama, and why it’s okay to say “I don’t know.” Plus, hear about the power of positive reflection, journaling, and finding the right support network.Don’t forget to leave a comment, rate us five stars, and share your own stories from the classroom!Timestamps & chapters below 👇00:00 - Welcome Back & Negative Self-Talk in Teaching00:45 - Teacher Burnout: Stats & Realities02:00 - Comparing Yourself & Early Career Pressures04:30 - Leadership Roles & Feeling “Not Good Enough”07:00 - Classroom Perfectionism & Daily Stress09:00 - Setting Boundaries: Emails, WhatsApp & Work-Life Balance12:00 - Headteachers, Expectations & Saying No15:00 - Staff Room Politics & Protecting Your Energy18:00 - Positive Reflection, Journaling & Mental Health21:00 - Assembly Nightmares, Dismissal Drama & Teacher Fears25:00 - Change, Habits & Coping with Overwhelm28:00 - Social Media, Comparison & Finding Support30:00 - Final Thoughts: Be Kind to Yourself & Make the Change32:00 - Outro & How to Reach Us