Finding Your Flow: Avoiding Creative Burnout (and Loving Your Classes!)
Let’s have a real talk about something crucial: avoiding creative burnout. We pour our hearts and souls into guiding our clients, ensuring they feel strong, aligned, and empowered. But sometimes, that constant energy expenditure can leave us feeling… well, a little drained.
We’ve all been there: the back-to-back classes, the endless cueing, the constant need to be “on.” It’s easy to lose that spark that made us fall in love with Pilates in the first place. So, how do we keep that flame alive? Let’s dive into some strategies that have helped me, and hopefully, will help you too!
1. Prioritize Your Own Practice:
This might seem obvious, but it’s often the first thing to slip when we’re busy.
Remember why you started Pilates? Reconnect with that feeling. Schedule time for your own personal practice, whether it’s a full workout or just a few mindful minutes on the mat. You can’t pour from an empty cup!
2. Embrace Variety (and Delegate When Possible):
Teaching the same sequence day in and day out can get monotonous. Don’t be afraid to mix things up! Explore different variations, try new props, and challenge yourself creatively.
Speaking of variety, consider diversifying your teaching schedule. If you have the option, teach different levels, or offer specialized classes like pre/postnatal or athletic conditioning. The ClassPlan can help with this! We have an exercise library with over 6,000 exercises to help inspire and motivate and keep your class plans fresh and exciting to teach!
3. Streamline Your Planning with ClassPlan:
This is where the amazing ClassPlan app comes in!
No more frantic scribbling on scraps of paper or struggling to remember sequences. The ClassPlan allows us to create, organize, and access our class plans with ease. You can easily add pre-made flows to your classes, Spotify playlists, and even share your plans with our community. It frees up so much mental energy, allowing you to focus on connecting with your students and bringing your best to each session.
4. Set Boundaries and Schedule Downtime:
It’s tempting to say “yes” to every opportunity, but learning to say “no” is essential.
Don’t overbook yourself. Schedule regular breaks and downtime. This means setting boundaries with clients, avoiding late-night emails, and taking time for yourself. Remember, rest is productive!
5. Connect with Your Community:
Teaching Pilates can sometimes feel isolating. Make time to connect with other instructors. Share experiences, exchange ideas, and support each other. Attend workshops, conferences, or even just grab coffee with a fellow instructor. Building a strong community can help you feel less alone and more inspired.
At the ClassPlan, we are prioritising our online forum and building a supportive community. You can share anything with like-minded instructors, from your favourite exercise to your most loved active brand. Bonding with like-minded people is an important part of keeping your pilates spark alive!
6. Remember Your “Why”:
When you’re feeling overwhelmed, take a moment to remember why you became a Pilates instructor. What impact do you have on your students’ lives? How does Pilates make you feel? Reconnecting with your “why” can reignite your passion and remind you of the incredible work you do.
7. Listen to Your Body:
Our bodies are our instruments. Don’t ignore the signs of fatigue or pain. Take breaks when you need them, stretch regularly, and prioritize self-care.
Ultimately, avoiding instructor burnout is about finding a sustainable balance between your passion for teaching and your own well-being.
By prioritizing self-care, embracing variety, and utilizing tools like the ClassPlan app, you can continue to thrive as a Pilates instructor and share the joy of movement with your students for years to come.
What are your tips for avoiding creative burnout? Share them in the comments below!
Keep moving, keep breathing, and keep shining!