Quick Tips for Professors to Prioritize Wellness

Image by: William Farlow

Being a professor is both rewarding and demanding, requiring a balance between teaching, research, advising and administrative responsibilities. Without intentional self-care, burnout can set in quickly. Here are some practical wellness tips for professors to maintain their mental, emotional, and physical health:

1. Set Clear Work Boundaries

• Establish defined work hours and stick to them.

• Limit responding to emails after work hours to maintain work-life balance.

• Learn to say no to excessive commitments to avoid overloading yourself.

  
  

2. Manage Stress Effectively

• Practice mindfulness or meditation to reduce daily stress levels.

• Take short breaks during the workday to recharge your energy.

• Develop a simple morning or evening routine that promotes relaxation.

  
  

3. Prioritize Physical Health

• Schedule regular exercise, even if it’s just a short walk between classes.

• Stay hydrated and maintain a balanced diet to support overall health.

• Ensure you get sufficient sleep to stay mentally sharp and refreshed.

  
  

4. Foster Supportive Relationships

• Build connections with fellow professors to share experiences and support each other.

• Seek mentorship opportunities for guidance and career growth.

• Maintain strong relationships outside of academia to help decompress from work stress.

  
  

5. Use Time Management Strategies

• Plan your week in advance to allocate time effectively.

• Use productivity tools to stay organized and reduce stress.

• Set realistic goals and break large tasks into smaller, manageable parts.

  
  

6. Engage in Personal Interests

• Make time for hobbies and activities that bring joy and relaxation.

• Read for pleasure outside of academic materials to refresh your mind.

• Travel or take vacations to recharge and gain new perspectives.

  
  

7. Seek Institutional Support

• Take advantage of faculty wellness programs and mental health resources.

• Advocate for policies that support a healthy work environment.

• Participate in professional development that includes wellness strategies.

Wellness is a continuous practice that requires effort and intentionality. By incorporating these self-care strategies into daily routines, professors can maintain their passion for teaching while protecting their overall well-being.