Wellbeing Strategies for Overwhelmed School Principals
I know firsthand how heavy the load you can feel by the end of the term for a school leader. I know it’s the start of the term but often it’s good to reflect when you are fresh. This very thought stimulated my research “Who is Caring for the Carers?”
The pressures seem to pile up—accumulating workloads, staff and student fatigue, the constant need to make high-stakes decisions, and managing a sea of external demands. Not to mention the emotional exhaustion that creeps in after endless event coordination. It all builds up, and before you know it, you’re desperately longing for the break that feels just out of reach.
Having worked closely with many school principals over the years, and through my own experience, I’ve learned a lot about the unique challenges that school leaders face. One thing is certain: we need strategies that actually help, not just another set of vague recommendations. So, I’ve put together a few wellbeing strategies that have helped me and others navigate those particularly overwhelming times.
Keep the Basics in Check
First things first—healthy habits are non-negotiable. It sounds simple, but when we’re under pressure, it’s the basics that go out the window. Eating nutritious food, staying hydrated, and keeping active are vital. All of these things contribute to good sleep, which is critical for managing the physical and emotional demands of our roles. I’ve found that keeping even a small bit of routine—whether it’s a short walk, a healthy lunch, or drinking enough water—has a significant impact on how I feel by the end of the day.
Step Out of the Office and Get Moving
One of the best things I’ve learnt is to leave my office as much as possible. A simple walk around the school does wonders, not just for the school climate, but for my own well-being. It gives you a chance to connect with students and staff, creating a positive atmosphere and improving your mental state. I often invite a staff member to join me for a walk—it’s a great way to build rapport and show that you’re approachable.
Switching things up a little can also help prevent that feeling of being stuck in a rut. Take a different route home, grab lunch with someone new, or cover a class for a colleague. Small changes like these can break up the monotony and remind you why you love your job in the first place.
Set Boundaries and Disconnect
Here’s a hard truth: there will always be more work. As principals, we feel the pressure to keep pushing through, even when we’re running on empty. But I’ve learned that setting boundaries is essential. If we don’t, the work will bleed into every part of our lives, leaving no room to recharge.
The right to disconnect isn’t just for staff; it applies to us as leaders too. Decide when the workday ends and stick to it. Easier said than done, I know, but that time away from school is what allows us to show up fully when we’re there. Time spent with family, hobbies, or simply relaxing is just as important as any task on your to-do list. Recently I has some work overseas but which was awesome but taxing. I made sure I discoonected on the beach afterwards. Treat yourself, it is so important.
A Little Gratitude Goes a Long Way
One of the most impactful things we can do as leaders is to express genuine gratitude. Our staff works incredibly hard, and they often feel the same end-of-term exhaustion we do. Showing appreciation—whether through a shared lunch, morning tea, or even a simple thank you—can have a huge effect on the school community. It doesn’t need to be elaborate, just something that shows you notice their efforts.
And don’t forget the people outside of work who support you, too. Family and friends do so much behind the scenes to help us get through the term, and they rarely get the recognition they deserve. A heartfelt thank you goes a long way and helps to strengthen those relationships.
Celebrate the Wins—Big and Small
As the term comes to a close, it’s important to take a moment to celebrate. Whether it’s a quiet dinner with your partner, a weekend away, or even just planning that holiday you’ve been dreaming about—mark the end of the term with something that feels like a reward. It’s easy to get caught up in the busyness and forget to stop and acknowledge how much you’ve achieved.
I’ve found that having something positive to look forward to helps keep me motivated, even when the demands are high. It’s a reminder that there’s life beyond the next meeting or deadline, and it’s okay to step back and enjoy it.
Know When to Seek Help
Finally, and perhaps most importantly, don’t hesitate to seek help when you need it. As principals, we’re often seen as the ones who have everything under control, but the reality is we can’t do it all alone. Whether it’s talking to a colleague, seeking professional advice, or even accessing medical or psychological support, it’s important to recognise when we need to lean on others.
You can’t pour from an empty cup, and taking care of your own wellbeing is essential if you want to continue leading effectively. Don’t feel guilty about doing what’s necessary to take care of yourself—it’s what enables you to take care of everyone else.