The Hidden Cost of Running on Empty in Schools

Short Read – Week 1 of 4

December in schools has a very particular feeling.
It’s the month where the pace rises while energy falls.
Everyone is tired, but the work keeps coming.
And slowly, almost without noticing, people begin running on empty.

Running on empty doesn’t look dramatic.
Often, it looks like coping.
Showing up.
Getting through the day.
Putting everyone else’s needs first because that’s what the job demands.

But the hidden cost is real.

When your brain is juggling too many pressures, clarity drops.
When rest is constantly postponed, decision-making becomes harder.
When emotional labour increases, your bandwidth shrinks.
And even the smallest task can feel disproportionately heavy.

None of this is a personal failing.
It’s a system pattern, not an individual flaw.

Running on empty becomes normal in schools because the pressure becomes normal.
But normal doesn’t mean healthy, sustainable, or acceptable.

Sometimes the most important step is simply naming it.

So here’s a gentle reflection for today:
What’s one sign your mind or body is asking for a pause?

Awareness isn’t self-indulgent.
Awareness is clarity.
And clarity is the first quiet step back towards feeling human again.

We’ll be sharing more supportive reflections throughout December.
You don’t need to carry it alone.

Does this resonate?

If this resonates, keep an eye on our December posts.
We’re sharing quiet, practical ways to reduce pressure and protect your energy as the term ends.