The first thing that occurred to me when I read this is that safety guideline they tell you on an airplane.. you need to put your own oxygen mask on before assisting someone else. I struggle with these same feelings that you are describing. Try to remind yourself that “letting yourself off the hook” is a necessary exercise in self-care. Without giving yourself a break at the end of a long day, or treating yourself to an hour of yoga (or some other activity you find energizing and calming), you will have trouble finding the balance and focus you need to attack your deadlines when you get back to work! Think of exercises in self-care, self-compassion, and self-love as putting on your own oxygen mask. When you are taking care of your own needs, you will feel more confident (instead of anxious) and you will have more focused energy you can use to attack the tasks on your To-Do list, one at a time.

Don’t let fear paralyze you (fear of letting down your students, fear of failing, fear of uncontrollable things coming up that prevent you from meeting your deadline, etc.) When you start worrying, take a moment to reflect on your thoughts (without judgment) and notice which of those thoughts are really just fears. Just recognize the fear, and try and replace that thought with something more constructive. For example, instead of telling yourself “I’m anxious that I will fail to meet this deadline and let down my students” notice what you’re really feeling: “I care a lot about my students, and take pride in my work – this is why I want to do a good job.” You are obviously passionate about your work – or you wouldn’t be so worried about it! Hold on to this thought, and let your fears of failing go – ain’t nobody got time for that!!