I am pretty sure that every conversation I had in my first two months of teaching began with this phrase. I couldn't leave school behind. I was in school all day, and then I would go home, lesson plan a little and watch a little hockey or television until it was time for bed. This meant when I saw my friends I didn't have much to talk about EXCEPT school. Unfortunately, unless it's a funny story, no one really cared about my school stories.
It was during this time that I no longer knew how to relate to my friends. I wanted to talk to them, to be engaged in conversation, but I had nothing to talk about that interested them. I even spoke to my best friend on the phone and found that it was easier to just let her speak while I remained silent on the other end of the phone. This was the sign. I needed to really push to have more to talk to my friends about.
This was when I started ensuring that I make plans with at least one friend, or family members every weekend. This way, I will always have something to talk about outside of school. Of course, there are some weekends when this is not possible. However, I do whatever I can to find someone to spend my time with. In one instance, I instead decided to go shopping for a new pair of pants. Even though I did not spend time with a friend, I still had quite an adventure that day. Sadly, I did not end up with a new pair of pants.
So, in order to remain what I call a "normal" or "sane" teacher I am making it a point to not discuss school at times when it is not necessary. When it is the weekend, I focus on enjoying myself, relaxing and finding ways to connect with my friends. When Monday morning comes I am fully back into the school setting, ready to begin my week.
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