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One Small Habit That Makes A HUGE Difference In the Classroom

Have you ever wondered if the little things you do as a teacher REALLY matter?

 

In this first episode of The TenX Teaching Podcast, host Mary Saylor shares a deeply personal story about a student’s end-of-year letter that revealed just how powerful one simple change can be.

What started as a routine note of thanks turned into a life-changing reminder that teachers hold the capacity to shine light into students’ darkest corners—sometimes without even realizing it. Mary opens up about her OWN early struggles with burnout, classroom chaos, and almost walking away from teaching entirely. She also shares how one quiet student’s words reshaped her perspective and confirmed why connection—not perfection—is what changes lives.

 

✨ What You’ll Learn in This Episode:

  • Why small, consistent connections with students matter more than you think,

  • A simple, powerful strategy to try this week: say “Hello” first,

  • How burnout almost derailed Mary’s teaching journey—and what brought her back, Why rediscovering joy in teaching starts with connection, not perfection,

  • 💡 “Sometimes, the most powerful thing you can do for a student is simply say hello.”

 

📥 Free Resource: Grab the "Intentional Connection" Poster:

→ https://tenxteaching.org/resources

 

✨ Got a teaching story to share? We’re collecting the good, the bad, and the unforgettable moments from the classroom! If you’ve got that one memory that made you laugh, cry, or even cringe a little—and you’re open to hopping on the mic with Mary for a few minutes—we’d love to hear it. Share your story HERE.

 

Know a new graduate who needs some help "adulting?" Send them to our affiliate partner, Isabelle McCleary at WE THRIVE LIFE. Conquer adulthood together!

 

👉 If this episode encouraged you, hit SUBSCRIBE so you never miss a dose of inspiration. Then share it with a teacher friend who could use the reminder that the little things matter. Let's build a community of extraordinary educators who swap stories, trade strategies, and rediscover the joy of teaching.

 

Credits: "Catchy Positive Sports Pop Rock", is adapted from "Catchy Positive Sports Pop Rock" by Music for Creators, used under CC BY 4.0. "Catchy Positive Sports Pop Rock" is licensed under CC BY 4.0 by TenXTeaching.