Being a teacher is tough. Those 180 days a year carry a heavy workload. There is a reason why many people leave the music teaching profession within five years. It takes a special person, who cares about kids and helping people, to succeed.

If you let your challenges bother you, it will influence your teaching negatively. Whenever you feel yourself slipping away, take some time to refresh your outlook:

1. Maintain a sense of humor about your frustrations. You will have more success if you keep things loose and cooperative. "Keep the best interest of the kids in mind, and do the best with who you have—keep your ego out of it," says MENC member Nancy Sabaj.
2. Remember that every job has its hard times. The troubles you face are the ones you chose to overcome when you became a teacher. Feel proud of yourself for voluntarily taking on this responsibility.
    

Post comments on the Band Forum

Coming in two weeks: Renew Your Commitment, Part 2

-- Paul Fergus, June 10, 2008, © MENC: The National Association for Music Education (www.menc.org)