Being a director is challenging on many levels; these challenges can literally make you ill if physical, mental and emotional resources are drained beyond regeneration. Thus, it is essential that successful directors take care of themselves in order to care for others. Taking care of yourself begins with knowing yourself and acting on what you know.

Directors have an advantage over teachers in that you can set and rearrange your own schedule at will. Consider daily, weekly, and monthly tasks and how you can match them with the ebb and flow of your energy. Some people do best early in the morning, while others can’t creatively function until almost noon. Most people slump at some point during the afternoon and seek out something to help them through the day. Assess yourself and plan accordingly.

Questions

Ask yourself questions like these:

When am I at my peak to tackle difficult questions or tasks?
Are there certain days of the week when my energy is higher or lower?
What routine tasks can be done when I’m not at my best?
Is there something besides sugar or caffeine that I can turn to in the low times of the day?
What activities energize me, inspire me, motivate me? How can those activities be incorporated more regularly into my life?