Slow Down to Grow: What Teachers Need Most Right Now

Hey friends —

Some weeks move fast. Too fast. The pace of teaching, grading, and just life can leave us chasing our tails, wondering if we’re making any progress at all.

But this week, I’ve been reminded that growth doesn’t have to be loud or fast to be real. The most meaningful changes — in our students and ourselves — happen quietly, slowly, and consistently.

Here are five things that helped me remember that truth this week.

What I Reflected On

The Gift of Time: Teaching Patience in a Fast World - What if the best gift we give our students (and ourselves) isn’t more to do — but more time to do it well? This piece explores how slowing down can actually move learning forward. 👉 Read the post →

What I Recorded

Persistence Over Perfection: A Quiet Force Every Teacher Needs - Perfection drains us. Persistence sustains us. This reflection is a reminder that real progress is built on showing up, not showing off. 👉 Read it here →

What I Read

Stop Doing Too Much: The Minimum Effective Dose for Educators - From Ditch That Textbook, this article is a breath of fresh air for anyone who feels stretched too thin. Doing less doesn’t mean caring less — it means choosing what truly matters. 👉 Read the article →

What I Watched

Persistence Over Perfection - In this short video, I share a few thoughts on why persistence might be the most underrated teacher superpower — especially during those long middle weeks of the school year. 👉 Watch here →

What I’m Remembering

Slow Growth Still Counts - Nature doesn’t rush, and neither should we. Progress isn’t always visible day to day — sometimes it’s a quiet accumulation of better choices, deeper patience, and small wins.

Keep watering the seeds, even when you can’t see them growing.

This weekend, take a few minutes to notice how far you’ve come — even if it’s one small step at a time.

Coming Soon: The STRONG Teacher Winter Reset

By the way, something special’s coming in December…

It’s called The STRONG Teacher Winter Reset — a 12-day well-being challenge and reflection series to help teachers recharge before the new year.

We’ll kick things off on December 1, and yes — there’s a free tracker to go with it.

Stay tuned — your reset is coming.

Until Next Time

Thanks for being part of this community of teachers choosing to grow with patience and purpose.

Stay happier, healthier, and stronger,

Jeremy

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