CARVSMARK

Ah, the elusive work-lite balance, the kind of mystical creature that North American teachers talk about like it’s a unicorn sipping espresso in a European vineyard, living its best life. Picture me six months ago, caught in the chaos of migraines and high blood pressure, hosting a health party in the back schoolyard. I was on a rollercoaster ride straight into Stress-land, with medications as my not-so-trusty sidekicks.

But fret not, for I, the brave teacher, decided to embark on a quest for balance. I took a leave from teaching and jetted off to Europe – not just for the scenic views, mind you, but to escape the whirlwind that was my life. And voila! The migraines disappeared like magic, and my blood pressure decided to take a vacation from its usual high-strung antics. What was this European secret sauce, you ask?

Before I left, I often heard whispers about the European way of life. “Oh, Europe! They’ve got it all figured out. It’s not a rat race; it’s a leisurely jog through a vineyard.” Envy had me picturing Europeans sipping espresso in quaint cafés, casually discussing the meaning of life. And then, I landed in Portugal, where things slowed down so much I was afraid I might start growing moss.

I hadn’t felt this way since I was a little girl munching on green cherries while perched on the cherry tree, unable to wait for them to ripen, bored out of my mind!

Now, I’m no expert, but I’ve observed the locals working just as hard as we do back home, grinding through the daily routine. So, what’s the secret? Value. Europeans treat their time like it’s the last chocolate in the box – rare and precious. Weekends are sacred, devoid of media distractions, spent basking in the glory of loved ones’ company or exploring historical sights.

Long weekends? Oh, that’s a chance for a quick jaunt to Spain for a futebol game with friends – scheduled as meticulously as a dentist appointment.

But the real magic lies in their ability to be present in the moment. When I chat with someone, they’re not mentally planning their escape; they’re fully there, in the conversation. It’s like a superpower we forgot to pack when we crossed the Atlantic. North Americans find it hard to be present because, let’s face it, we treat time like it’s an infinite resource available on Amazon Prime.

Now, imagine my son’s futebol coaches – always on the go, juggling tasks like professional circus performers. Yet, when they’re home, they’re fully present for their families, like superheroes returning to their lairs. My son, living in Europe, has even mastered the lost art of being bored.

In between futebol mania, he’s discovering what truly matters, growing up faster than a coming-of-age movie plot twist.

It’s all about mindset, my friends. A mindset that I’ve decided to adopt upon my return to the teaching circus. Nothing will be the same. I’ll value my time like a collector cherishing rare stamps, learn to say NO like a pro, and be more present in all that I do. Lite will be balanced, not over-scheduled and stressed. It’s a mindset shift – a North American revolution of valuing time, saying NO to unnecessary chaos, and embracing the art of being present. I’ve raised three boys, and let me tell you, nothing compares to the time spent doing whatever you all enjoy together.

The experiences of traveling, trying something new like zip-lining, or even just playing a board game – those memories are priceless. And yes, while I loved attending all their futebol games it was the tournaments, the car rides home, the winter fires, and movies are what I cherish the most.

So, value your time. We all have 24 hours in a day no matter where you are in the world. Stop talking about it do it. Value your time, be present with your time even if that is a scheduled foot massage. Do it! I have learned that this is all okay and life is too short to let it continue to be a tornado around you. For me, watch out, world; this teacher is coming back with a European-infused zest for life, ready to conquer the educational circus like a caffeinated unicorn juggling lesson plans in a vineyard!