Author: Angela Watson

This is the book I needed to read last year.

Actually, this is the book I needed to read when I first started teaching.

While there are many things in this book that I’ve read before in other contexts, the way Watson puts it together is formidable. This book is a stark solid, and on point, reminder that as a teacher, you can’t do it all.
Side note: This is also a great book for anybody working in a field where they feel overtaxed, never able to accomplish what they want and striving to strike a work life balance.

And the self inflicted martyrdom that comes with trying to do so only leads to burnout.

There were many parts of this book where I just had to stop, nod and say, “Yes, thank you! That’s exactly what I needed to hear right now.”

In fact, many of the things she says in this book are things that I’ve said on my website and in my 15 minutes a day book. However, I could never fully put it in the context of being a teacher.

Watson articulates the reason why I couldn’t transition my thoughts (and actions) on productivity, efficiency, and perfect being the enemy of the good: I’m stuck on the sacred cows of the teaching profession. There are many. And just like getting rid of the sacred cows of writing (see Dean Wesley Smith) will revitalize your love of writing and put you on a path to an enjoyable career, the same can be said for teaching.

I will admit, Watson certainly knows her audience. She definitely talks right to their pain points and she reframes everything in a way that makes you feel like you can handle it again. Now, considering she is a consultant and teacherpreneur, there is a bit of upsell in this book–especially towards her 40 hour a week teacher course.

I’m constantly trying to find ways to improve my craft. I’ve read countless articles and books on the subject, many of which had good ideas and gems, but not wholly applicable to what I’m trying to accomplish. In some instances, it was too theoretical. In other instances, it advocated for a “perfect” system.

This book, however, should be built as the foundation for anything else that you wish to bring into the classroom. I’ve already made a request to get copies for other teachers in my school. So thank you, Miss Watson and I look forward to applying everything you’ve written here.