I give so much but still you want more.

So this definitely has been a rollercoaster of week - at work and personally.

My mother has been ill for a few months now and as a family we all thought she'd be able to leave hospital this week, however this has been delayed until February. I spoke to my mother on the phone at the start of the week and I felt awful as there was nothing I could do to help. Then we find out the ward she is on has norovirus, which has meant family and friends can't really visit in case we catch something.

With this playing on my mind, this has really effected me. I know they say don't let your personal life interfere with work life, however sometimes that's impossible. I imagine my negative energy did impact on my class. So much so that I completely changed my room around. Moved children places, moved tables and changed routines. This is almost like my coping mechanism and my way of handling things. If I can change something for the better, then I will and exactly this has helped. I'm still putting things in place, but I know the children will adapt.

Like I said, it has been a rollercoaster and by the end of the week things had improved. I even went on a date! I am definitely trying to improve my work-life balance and decide there is only so much I can do. I have felt that I've given so much already and now people want that little bit more. I'm not sure I can. (Is it half term yet?)

Having time to reflect and make time for myself, I can start next week on a clean slate. Every week is different and new challenges will occur. Just stay positive and always look to that final goal. You never know what is around the corner.

Steve Maull. An NQT