Overcoming Feelings of Helplessness in the Teaching Profession

Q: Overcoming Feelings of Helplessness in the Teaching Profession

Hello, Sou： .................. <br>After reading your question, I honestly don't know how to respond. <br>You are a teacher, and you understand many principles, right? With the changing times, many schools are no longer hiring, and many public institutions have started to employ

Fatigue?

Hello, Doctor: I graduated from a teacher training college and have been a wandering teacher for many years (sometimes I have work, sometimes I don't).
I often feel quite pitiful; perhaps it stems from my time in school.
I never expected that despite cultivating my expertise over the years, I would be stuck in a continuous cycle of preparing for exams, facing the terrifyingly low acceptance rates year after year.
My confidence keeps dwindling.
Some of my classmates are on government scholarships, while others have already passed their exams.
More and more of my friends are getting married and having children, and since they are all good friends, I attend their celebrations or visit their newborns, which leads to discussions about another stage of life.
However, deep down, I feel increasingly powerless.
I am genuinely happy for my classmates (I truly wish I could be happier for them), but when I think about myself, I feel so pitiful—I seem to still be a student, making no progress while others advance year by year.
Some are about to graduate from graduate school, and others have studied abroad and returned, while I am still stuck taking exams year after year, unable to see a future.
Others are continuously moving forward into another stage of life, but what about me? Although I know many motivational phrases, such as "It's never too late to start in life," I haven't been able to apply them.
I feel like no matter what, I have already fallen behind.
Earning money— even if I pass the exams, my accumulated years of service are already many years behind (how pessimistic!).
"If I can't pass, I don't know what else I can do." I don't want to go to after-school programs because of the environment, even though my classmates say that as long as you are willing, there are jobs everywhere.
But I don't know if it's because I have high expectations or what, perhaps I just feel unwilling! Graduates from teacher training colleges often lack specialized skills—at most, I could be an assistant.
Facing this sense of powerlessness, I don't know what to do; I might only be able to earn very little money (22,000 TWD).
I wonder what the purpose of studying so much is.
I feel so pitiful—someone who often teaches students to hope for the future, yet I can't see my own future.
I teach stories like that of the monk from Nanhai, which contain profound truths, yet I can't apply them myself.
I truly hope to regain my motivation to face life's challenges.
Or perhaps I am just too perfectionistic.

sou, 20~29 year old female. Ask Date: 2008/06/11

Dr. Chen Wenyu reply Psychiatry

Hello, Sou: ..................
After reading your question, I honestly don't know how to respond.
You are a teacher, and you understand many principles, right? With the changing times, many schools are no longer hiring, and many public institutions have started to employ contract workers.
Even teachers are often hired as substitutes.
With the arrival of a declining birthrate, the number of teaching positions will inevitably decrease.
Moreover, it's not just graduates from teacher training colleges who can become teachers; university graduates who have completed education credits can also take the certification exam.
I believe there are many others in similar situations as yours, but I also believe that the vast majority of teachers in similar circumstances have not given up, right? At 28 years old, you are still young.
With advancements in medical technology, people can live beyond 80 years.
The next fifty years seem to be your focus, don't you think? Teaching is certainly your priority, but does it have to be your only choice in life? A second specialty is not innate; it also requires time to develop, doesn't it? Instead of sitting and worrying, have you considered getting up, going outside, and stepping out of the ivory tower of teaching? Additionally, from a psychiatric perspective, long-term environmental stress seems to have negatively affected you, leading to a loss of vitality, interest, and energy, which indicates symptoms of depression.
You might seek assistance from a psychiatrist; in addition to psychological counseling, an appropriate antidepressant could help you regain your mood and restore your confidence! Thank you for your letter!

Reply Date: 2008/06/11

More Info

Feeling helpless in the teaching profession, especially as a "floating teacher" who faces job instability, can be incredibly challenging. Your situation is not uncommon, and many educators experience similar feelings of inadequacy and frustration. Here are some strategies to help you overcome these feelings and regain a sense of purpose and direction in your career.

Acknowledge Your Feelings
First and foremost, it’s essential to acknowledge your feelings of helplessness and frustration. It’s okay to feel this way, especially when you see peers moving forward in their careers while you feel stuck. Recognizing that these feelings are valid is the first step toward addressing them. You’re not alone in this experience; many teachers face similar challenges, and it’s important to remember that your worth is not solely defined by your job title or salary.

Reflect on Your Achievements
Take some time to reflect on your accomplishments, no matter how small they may seem. You have dedicated years to education, and that commitment is commendable. Consider the positive impacts you’ve made on your students, even if they seem minor. Sometimes, we overlook the small victories in our lives. Keeping a journal where you document your achievements and positive interactions with students can help you see the value you bring to your role.

Set Realistic Goals
Setting realistic and achievable goals can help you regain a sense of control over your career. Instead of focusing on the long-term goal of securing a permanent teaching position, break it down into smaller, manageable steps. For example, you could aim to improve your teaching skills by attending workshops, seeking mentorship, or exploring new teaching methodologies. Setting these smaller goals can provide you with a sense of accomplishment and motivation.

Seek Support
Don’t hesitate to reach out for support from colleagues, friends, or professional networks. Sharing your feelings with others who understand your struggles can be incredibly therapeutic. Consider joining a professional organization for educators or participating in online forums where you can connect with others in similar situations. These connections can provide encouragement, advice, and a sense of community.

Explore Alternative Opportunities
If you feel that traditional teaching roles are not fulfilling your needs, consider exploring alternative career paths within education. There are many roles in educational consulting, curriculum development, or educational technology that may align with your skills and interests. Additionally, you might find opportunities in tutoring, mentoring, or even starting your own educational initiatives. Exploring these options can help you feel more empowered and less trapped in your current situation.

Focus on Self-Care
Taking care of your mental and emotional well-being is crucial. Engage in activities that bring you joy and relaxation outside of work. Whether it’s exercising, reading, or spending time with loved ones, make sure to prioritize self-care. When you take care of yourself, you’ll be better equipped to handle the challenges of your profession.

Consider Professional Help
If feelings of helplessness persist and begin to affect your daily life, consider seeking professional help. A therapist or counselor can provide you with tools to cope with anxiety and feelings of inadequacy. They can help you explore underlying issues and develop strategies to manage stress and improve your outlook on life.

Embrace Lifelong Learning
Education is a field that values lifelong learning. Embrace the idea that your career path may not be linear, and that’s okay. Consider pursuing further education or certifications that can enhance your qualifications and open new doors. This investment in yourself can lead to new opportunities and a renewed sense of purpose.

Conclusion
In conclusion, overcoming feelings of helplessness in the teaching profession requires a multifaceted approach. By acknowledging your feelings, reflecting on your achievements, setting realistic goals, seeking support, exploring alternative opportunities, focusing on self-care, considering professional help, and embracing lifelong learning, you can regain a sense of control and purpose in your career. Remember, it’s okay to feel lost at times; what matters is how you choose to navigate through those feelings and seek a path that aligns with your passions and values. Your journey is unique, and with perseverance and support, you can find fulfillment in your teaching career.

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