How to Support Teams that Experience Stress with Naomi Hall

In the world of education, stress can be an ever-present companion. From educators to administrators, the pressures of the profession can sometimes take a toll on individuals and teams alike. In this blog post, I'm recapping what Naomi Hall, founder of The Recovering Educator, shared in our fascinating conversation about recognizing and managing stress in educational teams, as well as addressing negativity within the group.

Recognizing Stress in Educators
Educators are no strangers to stress, and it's essential to understand the signs that manifest when someone is experiencing it. As discussed in the conversation, here are some common indicators of stress in educators:

1. Fatigue: Extreme fatigue can set in, with individuals feeling drained and exhausted.
2. Illness: A weakened immune system can lead to frequent illnesses.
3. Emotional Dysregulation: Fluctuating emotions, including anger, apathy, and extreme mood swings, may become prevalent.
4. Apathy: Educators may start to feel indifferent or disengaged, leading to a lack of enthusiasm for their work.
5. Avoidance: Some may avoid responsibilities or tasks, which can hinder productivity.
6. Overachievement: Conversely, some educators might overcompensate by taking on too much, leading to burnout.

Listening to Your Body
One essential aspect Naomi shared is the importance of listening to one's body. When you notice early signs of stress, it's essential to address them promptly. As an educator, taking stock of your well-being and making necessary adjustments to your mindset, health, nutrition, fitness, and sleep can prevent long-term health issues.

Educators often have a tendency to push through challenges, but ignoring the whispers of your body can lead to catastrophic consequences. Remember that self-care is not selfish; it's essential for your well-being and effectiveness as an educator.

Team Dynamics and Stress
Educational teams, whether they work together on a daily basis or collaborate in periodic meetings, are not immune to stress. In fact, stress within a team can be highly contagious. Here are some signs Naomi shared of a stressed team and how to address them:

1. Negativity: A stressed team may exhibit negative behaviors like nitpicking, complaining, or constantly showing up late.
2. Tension: Team members may exhibit tension, not listening to one another, and creating a dysfunctional atmosphere.
3. Dysfunctional Communication: In stressful team situations, communication may break down, making it challenging to move forward effectively.
4. Inequity: Perceived unfair practices can lead to discontent within the team.
5. Alignment Issues: Team members who feel their role doesn't align with their values and skills can experience increased stress.

Addressing Negativity within Teams
Negativity within a team can quickly derail productivity and create a toxic environment. To combat this, Naomi suggests that team members prepare themselves with strategies for addressing negativity constructively. Here are some fantastic tips she shared:

1. Use Scripts: Utilize scripts designed for challenging conversations to address negative comments or behavior with diplomacy and understanding.
2. Perception Checking: Ask team members for permission to check your perception. This opens a dialogue for clarifying misunderstandings and resolving conflicts.
3. Recognize Positive Contributions: Focus on positive team members who contribute to a healthy team culture and support their efforts.
4. Surround Yourself with Positivity: Be mindful of your surroundings, both in person and online, and seek out positive influences.

I had a blast visiting with Naomi during this episode!  She has SO much to share with the world and I want to be sure you know exactly how to connect with her, so I've left her details below:

• IG: @the_recovering_educator
• FB: @therecoveringeducator
• Website: www.therecoveringeducator
• Email: therecoveringeducator@gmail.com
• 50 Powerful Scripts to Stop Offensive Behaviors https://www.tammydunnett.com/downloadsandresources

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