Protect Your Light: 5 Steps to Manage Educator Drains

Every educator knows what it feels like to be drained. It’s that sinking moment when your energy disappears, your patience thins, and your joy feels out of reach. Drains can come from endless emails, surprise meetings, negative attitudes, or simply the weight of too many demands.

But here’s the truth: YOU DO HAVE POWER! You may not control every drain, but you can protect your light and create more light-filled moments. Here are five simple steps to help you get started:

1. Name the Drain

You can’t take control of what you don’t see. Start by noticing what consistently leaves you feeling heavy or exhausted. Naming the drain is the first step to loosening its grip.

“Cast all your anxiety on Him because He cares for you.” - 1 Peter 5:7

2. Release & Focus

Ask: Is this mine to carry? Some drains are outside your influence. Release those. For the ones you can control, focus on one small action that makes them lighter.

“Come to me, all you who are weary and burdened, and I will give you rest.” - Matthew 11:28

3. Set Boundaries

Boundaries aren’t walls… they’re doors that help you decide what comes in and what stays out. Whether it’s email, grading, or extra duties, choose a limit that protects your energy.

“Above all else, guard your heart, for everything you do flows from it.” - Proverbs 4:23

4. Reframe

Your mindset matters. Instead of “This always drains me,” try “I can’t control everything, but I can control my response.” Even a subtle shift creates more space for light.

“Do not conform to the pattern of this world, but be transformed by the renewing of your mind.” -Romans 12:2

5. Let Light In

Don’t just stop the drain… fill the gap. Choose something that fuels you: a quick laugh with students, a deep breath outside, or a creative spark. Replacing drains with light moments keeps your purpose in focus.

“Let your light shine before others, that they may see your good deeds and glorify your Father in heaven.” -Matthew 5:16

✨ Remember: 

Protecting your light isn’t selfish… IT IS ESSENTIAL! The more you protect your own energy, the more light you can bring to your students, your classroom, and your life.

A new prayer to try this week…

Lord, thank You for the light You have placed within me. Help me to recognize the drains that pull me away from Your peace and give me wisdom to release what I cannot control. Teach me to set healthy boundaries, renew my mind with truth, and refill my spirit with joy. May my light shine in my classroom and in the hallways of my school, reflecting Your love to every child and adult I meet. Amen.