By Shantel Patt: September 17, 2025

Joy isn’t a one-time fix — it’s an ongoing practice.

As we wrap up this series, it’s time to think about how to keep joy alive for the long haul.

Building your joy toolkit

• Set boundaries. Protect your time and energy.
• Prioritize self-care. Regular rest, hobbies, and support matter.
• Stay connected. Lean on your community.
• Practice gratitude. Notice and celebrate the good.
• Allow imperfection. You don’t have to be perfect to be effective.

The journey continues

Teaching is a marathon, not a sprint. With intention and care, joy can be your steady companion.

Keep showing up. Keep believing in yourself. And keep choosing joy — every day, even when it’s hard.