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When You Can’t Stop Rethinking Everything You Said, Taught, or Did (aka Teacher Self-Doubt)

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In this episode of the Stellar Teacher Podcast, Sara and Emily dive into a challenge almost every educator faces at some point: teacher self-doubt.

From questioning lesson plans to second-guessing instructional decisions, teacher self-doubt can quietly impact confidence, energy, and classroom effectiveness. In a profession where expectations feel high and perfectionism runs deep, it’s easy to overthink every choice and wonder if you’re “doing enough.”

Sara and Emily unpack:

  • why teacher self-doubt is so common
  • how self-reflection, when used intentionally, can actually strengthen decision-making
  • the role perfectionism plays in amplifying doubt
  • why learning to “fail fast” can build resilience and professional growth

This episode also highlights the importance of collaboration. Teaching is not meant to be done in isolation, and bringing trusted colleagues into your thought process can help reduce pressure and provide clarity.

If you’ve ever experience teacher self-doubt (aka replayed a lesson in your head, questioned your instincts, or struggled to celebrate your own successes), this conversation offers reassurance and actionable steps to move forward with confidence.

Press play for encouragement and practical tools to trust your professional judgment and teach with confidence – let’s take out teacher self-doubt together!

Resources:

Related Episodes and Blog Posts:

  • Episode 289: Embracing Imperfection in Teaching
  • Episode 270: Explicit, Systematic Writing Instruction for Upper Elementary with Dr. Karen Harris and Dr Steven Graham
  • Blog Post: Teachers, Take a Moment to Reflect with these 3 Questions

Stay Connected:

More About Stellar Teacher Podcast:

Welcome to the Stellar Teacher Podcast where we believe teaching literacy is a skill that can be strengthened with the right strategies, systems, and support.

Each week, Sara Marye — along with members of the Stellar Teacher Company team and other special guests — shares practical insights, instructional strategies, and honest conversations from the voices behind the magic of STC. With over a decade of experience as a classroom teacher and school leader, Sara is passionate about helping upper elementary teachers simplify their literacy block and make a meaningful impact.

Tune in on your favorite podcast platform: Apple, Google, Amazon, Spotify, Castbox, and more! If you’re loving this podcast, please rate, review, and follow.

Learn more about The Stellar Literacy Collective:

The Stellar Literacy Collective (SLC) is a membership designed for upper elementary teachers who want strong, effective literacy instruction… without spending hours planning every week.

Inside SLC, you’ll find ready-to-use, research-aligned lessons for reading, writing, and word study that work together to create a cohesive literacy block. From whole group comprehension lessons and vocabulary routines to small group supports and writing instruction, everything is built around consistent systems that support real classroom implementation.

If you’re tired of piecing lessons together or feeling like every week requires a brand-new strategy, SLC offers structure and clarity. It helps you simplify your literacy block, teach with intention, and create meaningful growth for your students!

Click HERE to learn more!

When teacher self-doubt creeps in, The Stellar Teacher Podcast is here to support you. Each episode is designed to empower upper elementary teachers to simplify lesson planning, strengthen classroom routines, and build confident, capable readers without burnout. Teaching doesn’t have to feel overwhelming to be effective. With practical strategies, honest conversations, and systems that work in real classrooms, you can protect your energy while still delivering meaningful instruction. Be sure to subscribe so you never miss an episode filled with encouragement and actionable ideas to support your literacy block all year long.

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I’m Sara, your literacy lovin’ mentor and cheerleader.

With over a decade of experience working as a classroom teacher and school administrator, I understand the joys and challenges of teaching. That’s why I’m on a mission to make an impact by serving stellar upper elementary teachers just like you. Get ready, because I’m pulling out all the stops to ensure that you have the tools and confidence you need to build a literacy block that you’re proud of. One that excites you and your students while also meeting the standards. Oh yes, it’s totally possible to have both!

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