RELAXING OUTSIDE OF SCHOOL, ON A BUDGET

First of all, the most important thing is to recognize and accept the fact that you will never have everything done. There will always be something else to do, even if you work twenty hours per day. So why work 20 hours a day and be miserable, when there will still be work left to do! I learned this lesson from my prior life experiences, so I have not allowed teaching to stress me as much as some. Having accepted this fact, the key is to actually take the time to enjoy life outside of work. Set aside time, and stick to it! Believe me, the papers to grade will be there when you get back!

Now the question is what is there to do? Mississippi does not have a great nightlife (understatement, huh?). So, much of your fun/entertainment simply comes from the people that you know. I would make it a point to try to make friends who are not teachers so that you can hang out with them on occasion and not have to talk about teacher stuff. Where do you meet these friends? Join an organization that involves one of your interests. If you are church-going, don't just go to church on Sunday. Actually attend some of the church events like picnics, socials, dinners, singles groups, or one of the ministry groups. At one point I attended church activities about once every one or two months, and it was a great opportunity to unwind and have a good time. Once you have identified one or two people with whom you share interests and enjoy hanging out with, your Friday night entertainment may simply be going out to dinner with that group, or going to a get-together at someone's house. Nothing like a night on the town in a big city, but still a way to get your mind off teaching.

If you are into sports, attend some football or basketball games - high school or college. Don't just limit yourself to attending your schools' events. If there is a great matchup going on, or if there is a star college recruit playing somewhere nearby, check it out.

In the Jackson area, check the newspapers and radio ads for upcoming events. There is always some type of play or concert coming up soon, and some of them are very reasonably priced. Check the calendars of the local colleges. They always have activities going on. (By the way, the fair is in town!)

For me, relaxing outside of school is simply sitting in front of the tv on a Saturday, with plenty of food nearby, and watching some highly ranked football team get upset by a 20 point underdog. The simple answer is, whatever it is that you like to do (read, knit, run, etc.), set aside some time for it, and do it.