Negative Self-Talk & Setting Boundaries | Sir, You Look Tired

Welcome back to "Sir, You Look Tired"! In this episode, Martin and Dan dive deep into the realities of teaching—tackling negative self-talk, burnout, and the importance of setting boundaries. They share honest stories from the classroom, from early career anxieties and staff room politics to the everyday pressures that come with the job.

Whether you’re a new teacher struggling with comparison, a leader juggling impossible expectations, or just someone who’s ever felt overwhelmed by school life, this episode is packed with practical advice, relatable moments, and plenty of laughs. Discover tips for managing emails, handling staff WhatsApp drama, and why it’s okay to say “I don’t know.” Plus, hear about the power of positive reflection, journaling, and finding the right support network.

Don’t forget to leave a comment, rate us five stars, and share your own stories from the classroom!

Timestamps & chapters below 👇

00:00 - Welcome Back & Negative Self-Talk in Teaching

00:45 - Teacher Burnout: Stats & Realities

02:00 - Comparing Yourself & Early Career Pressures

04:30 - Leadership Roles & Feeling “Not Good Enough”

07:00 - Classroom Perfectionism & Daily Stress

09:00 - Setting Boundaries: Emails, WhatsApp & Work-Life Balance

12:00 - Headteachers, Expectations & Saying No

15:00 - Staff Room Politics & Protecting Your Energy

18:00 - Positive Reflection, Journaling & Mental Health

21:00 - Assembly Nightmares, Dismissal Drama & Teacher Fears

25:00 - Change, Habits & Coping with Overwhelm

28:00 - Social Media, Comparison & Finding Support

30:00 - Final Thoughts: Be Kind to Yourself & Make the Change

32:00 - Outro & How to Reach Us