Why Teachers Burn Out | Guilt, Stress & Learning to Thrive

Burnout rarely happens overnight.For many teachers, school leaders and early years professionals, it builds quietly through relentless pressure, impossible expectations and the belief that caring more means doing more.In this episode of Beat Teacher Burnout, I’m joined by Dr Jane Todd, former teacher, school leader, lecturer and nursery owner, for an honest conversation about the hidden emotional cost of working in education.Jane shares her personal journey from thriving in leadership to experiencing burnout and physical collapse. Together, we explore why so many educators struggle to switch off, why guilt makes setting boundaries feel impossible and how perfectionism can slowly erode wellbeing, confidence and relationships.This isn't a conversation about doing less. It's about creating a more sustainable way of working, so you can continue making a difference without sacrificing your wellbeing.Whether you're a teacher, nursery practitioner, school leader or anyone working in education, this episode will help you recognise the warning signs of burnout and remind you that looking after yourself isn't selfish. It's one of the most important things you can do.In this episode, we discuss:Why burnout develops gradually and the warning signs to look out forHow guilt, perfectionism and people pleasing keep educators trappedPractical ways to set healthy boundaries and protect your wellbeingWhat it takes to build a sustainable, fulfilling career in educationIf this episode resonates with you, please follow, rate and share Beat Teacher Burnout. Every review helps more educators discover practical conversations that support wellbeing, prevent burnout and help people thrive in education.____Connect with Jane Todd:Website: janetodd.co.ukInstagram: www.instagram.com/early_years_janeFacebook: www.facebook.com/jane.todd.165Linkedin: www.linkedin.com/in/dr-jane-todd✨Get your The 40 day challenge Journal here: Build the habits, mindset and energy to become your best self : https://amzn.to/3Ptd8jQ  ✨Follow Rowena:👉Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/rowenaphicks👉Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/people/Teach-Flourish-Thrive-Beat-Teacher-Burnout/61552987182926👉LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/rowenaphicks👉Website: https://www.rowenahicks.com—Subscribe to the Beat Teacher Burnout Podcast 🎧New episodes drop bi weekly to help you reduce stress, prevent burnout, and lead with clarity and energy. Listen here on:👉Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/2unYCtcA81Qi5coaLZ22H1👉Apple Podcasts: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/beat-teacher-burnout/id1731803571👉Youtube: https://www.youtube.com/@AuthorRowenaHicks/ —Looking for Rowena’s books? Explore all books here: 👉https://www.rowenahicks.com/booksBuy on Amazon:👉The Burnout-Busting Teachers' Journal: https://amzn.to/3Ar6piV👉Teach, Flourish, Thrive: Break Free From Burnout : https://amzn.eu/d/0NCDubgNot sure where to start, book a consultation call with Rowena here: https://calendar.app.google/y1D862D8SFpDHAz67