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The Happy Teacher Habits: 11 Habits of the Happiest, Most Effective Teachers on Earth
What do daffodils, baseball announcing, and Tina Fey have to do with teaching? As it turns out, a lot. In The Happy Teacher Habits , Michael Linsin guides you through 11 little-known habits of the happiest, most effective teachers on Earth. Based on the latest research, and drawing on experts from the worlds of business, marketing, sports, entertainment, music, and medicine, you will learn simple, actionable strategies that will eliminate your teaching stress, supercharge your ability to motivate and inspire your students, and empower you to really love your job. This is no ordinary teaching book. It is a success roadmap through an educational system that is becoming increasingly harder to navigate. It will expose the falsehoods and misinformation teachers are bombarded with every day, and reveal the secrets to what really matters in creating a happy and fulfilling career.
144 pages, Paperback
First published April 29, 2016
849 people are currently reading
747 people want to read
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 105 reviews
December 31, 2016
Nothing new in this book but it is good to be reminded of how to be a productive teacher and reduce stress. Some good advice but rather long winded for what it contains. Way too many non-education related examples leading up to the main point of each chapter which made me feel like he was talking to adolescents rather than adult professionals. Also irritating is Linsin's opinion that his way of doing things is the ONLY way a teacher can be successful; for example, his recommendation that a classroom should be empty and sterile (aka his concept of 'tidy') might work for him but to claim he has NEVER seen anyone teach effectively in a room with decorations and soft furnishings (with one 'rare' exception mind you!) is one-eyed, and in my experience, just not true. The book is useful for ideas on how to streamline and condense preparation time, and advice on mindset and emotional survival, but these are in broad strokes with not much detail and few classroom based examples. Would give 2.5 stars if Goodreads would let us do half stars. Extra half star for the following observation:
"...teachers have taken on more and more responsibility for student behaviour, performance and work habits while students are taking on less and less...This has pulled teachers away from the front of the room and direct instruction, and brought them kneeling down beside one individual student after another. It's common for teachers to be more burdened with a student's progress than the student himself. In many classrooms, teachers carry the weight of a grand piano on their shoulders while students gad about without a care in the world. We've become so focused on setting students up for success that we've forgotten what it takes to succeed. We've forgotten that it's hard work BY THE STUDENT that leads to success. In the process, we've burned out scores of teacher and done a disservice to our students."
"...teachers have taken on more and more responsibility for student behaviour, performance and work habits while students are taking on less and less...This has pulled teachers away from the front of the room and direct instruction, and brought them kneeling down beside one individual student after another. It's common for teachers to be more burdened with a student's progress than the student himself. In many classrooms, teachers carry the weight of a grand piano on their shoulders while students gad about without a care in the world. We've become so focused on setting students up for success that we've forgotten what it takes to succeed. We've forgotten that it's hard work BY THE STUDENT that leads to success. In the process, we've burned out scores of teacher and done a disservice to our students."
March 19, 2019
Relieved to read a teacher advice book where the advice isn't 'differentiate and you’ll be fine' or anything like that. I like the emphasis on storytelling and similarly helpful things that actually do make your classroom better.
December 2, 2016
What are my core values, as a teacher?
-The point of the 80/ 20 rule is that in virtually every industry or endeavor, just a few things make the greatest difference. The rule has also been called “the vital few and the trivial many” and “Pareto's Principle.”
-Discovering the 20 percent can be life-changing. The problem with applying the rule to teaching, however, is that education is a sea of confusing and conflicting philosophies, strategies, and methods. It's rife with change and complexity and an overwhelming amount of information. Therefore, it can be difficult to identify what is most vital to your success.
-While it's true that hard work is a critical ingredient to success, there is a point of diminishing returns—in every profession. There is a point where you're actually worse off by working harder...If you're unsure what 20 percent actually matters to your success, then most of that extra work is in vain.
-The most effective teachers are fanatical in their commitment to neatness. Not only is the visual effect of entering their classroom calming and comforting, but even the contents of the closed cabinets and desk drawers are organized and easily accessible. This isn't simply a reflection of personal style or preference. Maintaining a pin-neat classroom will directly, and often dramatically, improve any teacher's ability to focus. It also saves time, lowers stress, soothes frayed and tattered nerves, and fills with renewed confidence.
-But for anything meaningful that you want to encourage, the worst thing you can do is offer rewards. The body of research clearly shows them to be antithetical to the kind of passionate, on fire for learning environment in which kids thrive. Teachers who remove “do this and get that” rewards from their classroom also find that it removes a giant burden from their shoulders. They feel liberated from the constant need to manipulate students into doing what they ask. They're free from having to think about what rewards to buy and how to use them. They no longer have to keep track of points or worry about who should get what and when. They no longer have to hear students complaining about why they didn't get this reward or that one. They no longer have to participate in something that deep down they never really felt good about. Removing rewards will also transform your teaching. It will shift your focus from trying to light a fire under individual students to creating a learning environment every student will appreciate and enjoy being part of.
-When you pay them via rewards you ruin the joy of learning for its own sake. You sabotage your efforts to make your classroom a place they look forward to. But by eschewing rewards and focusing instead on immersing students into the subject matter, you transform them into self-motivated learners.
-It is this combination of contextualized lessons—which we'll learn how to create and present in the coming chapters—and a joyful, lively classroom that cause students to become intrinsically motivated. It is this combination that gets stronger over time, that delivers a group of students on the last day of school that is far different than the one that began the school year. It is this combination that results in a love of school for them and a love of teaching for you.
-Rewarding students in exchange for good behavior and academic performance is a short-term fix that rips the heart and soul out of teaching. It makes it a cold transaction, a straight bribe in return for a show of attentiveness. After all, it isn't real. In the presence of rewards, there is no pure love of learning. There is no learning for its own sake. There is no absorption in the educational experience. It's been choked out by a promise of free time, wash-off tattoos, and rubber wristbands...The minute you do away with all the rewards and prize boxes and tokens and such, the act of teaching steps onto center stage. Every day we use the magic of context to dress our students up in tuxedos and sparkling dresses. We stroll the beautiful lobby and point out the richly appointed staircases and gold leaf ornamentation. We lead them down the aisle of the storied theater to their seats near the front of the vast stage. And then the curtain opens . . .
-To be the teacher you've always wanted to be, the kind students love and are motivated by, you need to be an expert in your subject matter. You need to be an expert of 18th century literature or the American Revolution or geometry or whatever subject you stand or sit in front of your students to teach. It is content knowledge that allows you to share the little-known histories, backgrounds, and anecdotes that make your subject come to life. Deep knowledge of content provides a wellspring of avenues to add color, texture, and context for your students.
-The first principle is simple, but very, very powerful. The way it works is that before stepping in front of your students to begin any lesson or activity, you have to clear your mind of any and all thoughts of how you want to express yourself. You have to let go of the script in your head. You have to let go of trying to be clever. You have to let go of thinking ahead or thinking up what you want to say. Instead, you must be in the moment—ready, nimble, and open to whatever may come. This doesn't mean that you'll be unprepared. You'll still be aware of your objective and how you want your students to prove that objective. You'll still have a visualization of the stories or examples you want to use. You'll still know how much time you need for each segment of your lesson. But otherwise, you will simply trust your natural wisdom. All great performers do this.
-Thinking ahead rather than being fully in the present renders you ineffective and unaware. Freeing your mind of clutter, on the other hand, sharpens the picture, frees your personality, and allows your innate communication skills to shine. We suddenly become poised, empathetic, and attuned to the world around us. We make instant connections and associations. We become our best and most authentic selves.
-To be most effective, you must not try hard to be effective. Madson says, “Do what is natural, what is easy, what is apparent to you. Your unique view will be a revelation to someone else.” She goes on to advise that if you just show up, the magic will happen. Again, this doesn't mean that you'll arrive late or fail to prepare your materials, schedules, or objectives for the day. It just means that when you open your mouth to speak, you'll do so without feeling as if you have to do something monumental to get your students' attention.
-
-The point of the 80/ 20 rule is that in virtually every industry or endeavor, just a few things make the greatest difference. The rule has also been called “the vital few and the trivial many” and “Pareto's Principle.”
-Discovering the 20 percent can be life-changing. The problem with applying the rule to teaching, however, is that education is a sea of confusing and conflicting philosophies, strategies, and methods. It's rife with change and complexity and an overwhelming amount of information. Therefore, it can be difficult to identify what is most vital to your success.
-While it's true that hard work is a critical ingredient to success, there is a point of diminishing returns—in every profession. There is a point where you're actually worse off by working harder...If you're unsure what 20 percent actually matters to your success, then most of that extra work is in vain.
-The most effective teachers are fanatical in their commitment to neatness. Not only is the visual effect of entering their classroom calming and comforting, but even the contents of the closed cabinets and desk drawers are organized and easily accessible. This isn't simply a reflection of personal style or preference. Maintaining a pin-neat classroom will directly, and often dramatically, improve any teacher's ability to focus. It also saves time, lowers stress, soothes frayed and tattered nerves, and fills with renewed confidence.
-But for anything meaningful that you want to encourage, the worst thing you can do is offer rewards. The body of research clearly shows them to be antithetical to the kind of passionate, on fire for learning environment in which kids thrive. Teachers who remove “do this and get that” rewards from their classroom also find that it removes a giant burden from their shoulders. They feel liberated from the constant need to manipulate students into doing what they ask. They're free from having to think about what rewards to buy and how to use them. They no longer have to keep track of points or worry about who should get what and when. They no longer have to hear students complaining about why they didn't get this reward or that one. They no longer have to participate in something that deep down they never really felt good about. Removing rewards will also transform your teaching. It will shift your focus from trying to light a fire under individual students to creating a learning environment every student will appreciate and enjoy being part of.
-When you pay them via rewards you ruin the joy of learning for its own sake. You sabotage your efforts to make your classroom a place they look forward to. But by eschewing rewards and focusing instead on immersing students into the subject matter, you transform them into self-motivated learners.
-It is this combination of contextualized lessons—which we'll learn how to create and present in the coming chapters—and a joyful, lively classroom that cause students to become intrinsically motivated. It is this combination that gets stronger over time, that delivers a group of students on the last day of school that is far different than the one that began the school year. It is this combination that results in a love of school for them and a love of teaching for you.
-Rewarding students in exchange for good behavior and academic performance is a short-term fix that rips the heart and soul out of teaching. It makes it a cold transaction, a straight bribe in return for a show of attentiveness. After all, it isn't real. In the presence of rewards, there is no pure love of learning. There is no learning for its own sake. There is no absorption in the educational experience. It's been choked out by a promise of free time, wash-off tattoos, and rubber wristbands...The minute you do away with all the rewards and prize boxes and tokens and such, the act of teaching steps onto center stage. Every day we use the magic of context to dress our students up in tuxedos and sparkling dresses. We stroll the beautiful lobby and point out the richly appointed staircases and gold leaf ornamentation. We lead them down the aisle of the storied theater to their seats near the front of the vast stage. And then the curtain opens . . .
-To be the teacher you've always wanted to be, the kind students love and are motivated by, you need to be an expert in your subject matter. You need to be an expert of 18th century literature or the American Revolution or geometry or whatever subject you stand or sit in front of your students to teach. It is content knowledge that allows you to share the little-known histories, backgrounds, and anecdotes that make your subject come to life. Deep knowledge of content provides a wellspring of avenues to add color, texture, and context for your students.
-The first principle is simple, but very, very powerful. The way it works is that before stepping in front of your students to begin any lesson or activity, you have to clear your mind of any and all thoughts of how you want to express yourself. You have to let go of the script in your head. You have to let go of trying to be clever. You have to let go of thinking ahead or thinking up what you want to say. Instead, you must be in the moment—ready, nimble, and open to whatever may come. This doesn't mean that you'll be unprepared. You'll still be aware of your objective and how you want your students to prove that objective. You'll still have a visualization of the stories or examples you want to use. You'll still know how much time you need for each segment of your lesson. But otherwise, you will simply trust your natural wisdom. All great performers do this.
-Thinking ahead rather than being fully in the present renders you ineffective and unaware. Freeing your mind of clutter, on the other hand, sharpens the picture, frees your personality, and allows your innate communication skills to shine. We suddenly become poised, empathetic, and attuned to the world around us. We make instant connections and associations. We become our best and most authentic selves.
-To be most effective, you must not try hard to be effective. Madson says, “Do what is natural, what is easy, what is apparent to you. Your unique view will be a revelation to someone else.” She goes on to advise that if you just show up, the magic will happen. Again, this doesn't mean that you'll arrive late or fail to prepare your materials, schedules, or objectives for the day. It just means that when you open your mouth to speak, you'll do so without feeling as if you have to do something monumental to get your students' attention.
-
November 17, 2019
I would 100% recommend any of Linsin’s books. He has mastered the art of behaviour management in the 21st century and his books outline many ways to achieve a happy classroom. Tho book is no exception. Every teacher should have at least one of his books on their shelf.
August 6, 2017
**This review is for the audiobook on Audible**
I am going into my 19th year teaching high school Spanish and English Literature and Composition. I absolutely LOVE what I do every day, but it didn't just happen like that. It took quite a bit of learning and a lot of practice to get get to this point! Some days are more difficult, challenging, and stressful than others, but learning how to minimize and control those difficult moments, is what will determine your true success, health, and happiness in both your professional and personal life. The audiobook, The Happy Teacher Habits: 11 Habits of the Happiest, Most Effective Teachers on Earth by Michael Linsin, Narrated by Mike Norgaard, does just that. Michael Linsin explains the habits of the happiest teachers in the world and shows you how to do the same, so that you are able to lead a similar life. He gives tips and strategies to help you not only maintain your sanity in the world of education, but also explains how to create a life of happiness with youself, your family, and your students.
I really enjoyed listening to this audiobook! I found it to be informative, motivating, accurate, and full of hope! Teaching isn't easy and everyday is filled with moments of surprise and adventure. Some teachers look at those moments as opportunity and growth, while others have a difficult time and ultimately feel frustrated and overwhelmed. You went into the field of education for a reason...do you remember that reason? You were meant to be a teacher; this is your life, your passion, your contribution. You make a difference in the lives of others. In this book, Michael Linsin teaches you how to keep doing all of that, but without the stress and added pressure teachers often feel. The book focuses on 11 main habits that you can start implementing right now! It is only about 4 hours long, but packed with information that will benefit you for the rest of your life. You might find that you want to give all 11 habits a try or just one of them. Either way, you will always have this book to refer back to if you need some inspiration along your journey to happiness and health! :-)
The narration by Mike Norgaard is fantastic!! I have listened to other books he has narrated, and I have been impressed with his professional, yet easy to listen to tone. He objectively presents the information to the listeners in a clear and consistent manner, while also sounding inviting and comforting. He has a way of making listeners feel like these words were meant for them, which is an area many narrators of non-fiction books are not usually successful. I was fully engaged from start to finish and felt like I was listening to a friend or mentor give me advice on how to make my life more manageable and enjoyable. I definitely feel his narration added to my overall experience and enjoyment of the book!
I've been a subscriber to Michael Linsin's popular website smartclassroommanagement.com for some time now. I do not personally know him, nor have we ever met, but I do feel he is someone who genuinely cares about the success of teachers and their students. I just want to say thank you for all your help, support, and hard work! Everyday you help teachers from all over the world live happier, healthier, more successful, and enjoyable lives. Keep up the great work...you are appreciated more than you know! I rate this audiobook 5/5 stars across the board, and I recommend it to anyone looking to live a life of both happiness and success!
Thank you so much for reading my review. I hope it was helpful. :-)
I am going into my 19th year teaching high school Spanish and English Literature and Composition. I absolutely LOVE what I do every day, but it didn't just happen like that. It took quite a bit of learning and a lot of practice to get get to this point! Some days are more difficult, challenging, and stressful than others, but learning how to minimize and control those difficult moments, is what will determine your true success, health, and happiness in both your professional and personal life. The audiobook, The Happy Teacher Habits: 11 Habits of the Happiest, Most Effective Teachers on Earth by Michael Linsin, Narrated by Mike Norgaard, does just that. Michael Linsin explains the habits of the happiest teachers in the world and shows you how to do the same, so that you are able to lead a similar life. He gives tips and strategies to help you not only maintain your sanity in the world of education, but also explains how to create a life of happiness with youself, your family, and your students.
I really enjoyed listening to this audiobook! I found it to be informative, motivating, accurate, and full of hope! Teaching isn't easy and everyday is filled with moments of surprise and adventure. Some teachers look at those moments as opportunity and growth, while others have a difficult time and ultimately feel frustrated and overwhelmed. You went into the field of education for a reason...do you remember that reason? You were meant to be a teacher; this is your life, your passion, your contribution. You make a difference in the lives of others. In this book, Michael Linsin teaches you how to keep doing all of that, but without the stress and added pressure teachers often feel. The book focuses on 11 main habits that you can start implementing right now! It is only about 4 hours long, but packed with information that will benefit you for the rest of your life. You might find that you want to give all 11 habits a try or just one of them. Either way, you will always have this book to refer back to if you need some inspiration along your journey to happiness and health! :-)
The narration by Mike Norgaard is fantastic!! I have listened to other books he has narrated, and I have been impressed with his professional, yet easy to listen to tone. He objectively presents the information to the listeners in a clear and consistent manner, while also sounding inviting and comforting. He has a way of making listeners feel like these words were meant for them, which is an area many narrators of non-fiction books are not usually successful. I was fully engaged from start to finish and felt like I was listening to a friend or mentor give me advice on how to make my life more manageable and enjoyable. I definitely feel his narration added to my overall experience and enjoyment of the book!
I've been a subscriber to Michael Linsin's popular website smartclassroommanagement.com for some time now. I do not personally know him, nor have we ever met, but I do feel he is someone who genuinely cares about the success of teachers and their students. I just want to say thank you for all your help, support, and hard work! Everyday you help teachers from all over the world live happier, healthier, more successful, and enjoyable lives. Keep up the great work...you are appreciated more than you know! I rate this audiobook 5/5 stars across the board, and I recommend it to anyone looking to live a life of both happiness and success!
Thank you so much for reading my review. I hope it was helpful. :-)
June 19, 2019
Bear with me as I’m a novice but this books laid down incredible principles for putting the most in and getting the most out of teaching. I’d say it’s a must read for any teacher. Looking to get my hands on his book on classroom management as well. So helpful. I definitely recommend it.
July 8, 2018
I recommend this book to all teachers, newbies and veterans. the 11 habits mentioned in the book are totally doable and will improve your personal and professional life greatly. It's also a very quick read.
September 9, 2019
I found a lot of valuable information here that I can use.
September 27, 2019
A little over the the top in terms if the authors confidence as indicated by the title, but very good information and advice. I like how this deals with teacher behavior rather than students and how a teacher can be happy rather than everyone else.
September 19, 2024
What a practical book. My favorite take-aways...
1. Focus on the 20%...so that you know what to say no to.
2. Rewards cheapen effort and weaken intristic motivation.
3. Anything told in story form will be more compelling than just telling the information.
4. Visualize your actions and responses to misbehavior beforehand.
5. Grit is a willingness to put your head down and work, even when success isn't assured. "Mental toughness and dogged determination."
6. Consistently kind and pleasant. Unwavering follow-through.
7. Consciously decide to talk less. Be selective with your words.
1. Focus on the 20%...so that you know what to say no to.
2. Rewards cheapen effort and weaken intristic motivation.
3. Anything told in story form will be more compelling than just telling the information.
4. Visualize your actions and responses to misbehavior beforehand.
5. Grit is a willingness to put your head down and work, even when success isn't assured. "Mental toughness and dogged determination."
6. Consistently kind and pleasant. Unwavering follow-through.
7. Consciously decide to talk less. Be selective with your words.
April 2, 2018
Best Trade Book I've Read in a Decade
This book popped up on my Amazon suggestions, and initially I was not going repurchase it because I'm fiercely "old school" and was not interested in an e-book. But, I read the review and it spoke to the heart of my exhausted, stressed out, burned out, and overwhelmed (but at the bottom kind and well-intentioned) teacher mind. It was exactly what I needed to refocus, recharge, and strike out again after Spring Break with a new focus on not being a cranky, stressed out teacher, but a happy and effective one instead. The wisdom is practical and doable. I found myself nodding my head along and saying audibly "yes, yes, that's how I feel" and "exactly right, that's how it is" repeatedly throughout the book. I even took notes in my notebook to help my craving for paper. I would recommend this book to any teacher, young or more experienced, who genuinely wants to do an exceptional job, but feels (as Linsin says in Chapter 2) they have been walking around with "a two ton refrigerator" on their back. If you are a teacher, you know what that means, and you just nodded your head, didn't you? But, in all seriousness, buy the book, read it, press the reset button, and get to getting. There is a child waiting for you to be the teacher you always wanted to be, or used to be and got too exhausted to keep it up. What you do, and don't do, in the classroom matters so much. This book will help you set you sights on the important things in a very important and difficult career field. Kudos, Mr. LinkedIn. Job well done!
This book popped up on my Amazon suggestions, and initially I was not going repurchase it because I'm fiercely "old school" and was not interested in an e-book. But, I read the review and it spoke to the heart of my exhausted, stressed out, burned out, and overwhelmed (but at the bottom kind and well-intentioned) teacher mind. It was exactly what I needed to refocus, recharge, and strike out again after Spring Break with a new focus on not being a cranky, stressed out teacher, but a happy and effective one instead. The wisdom is practical and doable. I found myself nodding my head along and saying audibly "yes, yes, that's how I feel" and "exactly right, that's how it is" repeatedly throughout the book. I even took notes in my notebook to help my craving for paper. I would recommend this book to any teacher, young or more experienced, who genuinely wants to do an exceptional job, but feels (as Linsin says in Chapter 2) they have been walking around with "a two ton refrigerator" on their back. If you are a teacher, you know what that means, and you just nodded your head, didn't you? But, in all seriousness, buy the book, read it, press the reset button, and get to getting. There is a child waiting for you to be the teacher you always wanted to be, or used to be and got too exhausted to keep it up. What you do, and don't do, in the classroom matters so much. This book will help you set you sights on the important things in a very important and difficult career field. Kudos, Mr. LinkedIn. Job well done!
June 30, 2016
Some interesting ideas.
Yes, a very small portion of students/work tasks take up the most time. So narrow that down. Don't pass up diminishing returns. I just can't count how many times I've heard "do more with less" at school the past couple years.
Learn to say no.
Clean up and get rid of junk! The "bombardment of stimuli stresses the system." And he quotes Benjamin Franklin as saying for every minute spent organizing, an hour is earned. Yes, if you could actually spend it organizing and not having people distract you. That is a serious point of frustration for me. I can't ever count on quiet time after school because the library is THE PLACE for all unexpected meetings. No one ever tells me about them in advance.
Inspire instead of bribe. Yep. Really thinking about getting rid of the "treasure box" next year.
Practice improvisation.
Simplify lessons.
Visualize. He suggests uninterrupted time before school. That won't happen unless I get there at 6:45. Which means leaving my house before 6. :/
Practice the growth mindset!
LISTEN.
Be consistently pleasant.
Yes, a very small portion of students/work tasks take up the most time. So narrow that down. Don't pass up diminishing returns. I just can't count how many times I've heard "do more with less" at school the past couple years.
Learn to say no.
Clean up and get rid of junk! The "bombardment of stimuli stresses the system." And he quotes Benjamin Franklin as saying for every minute spent organizing, an hour is earned. Yes, if you could actually spend it organizing and not having people distract you. That is a serious point of frustration for me. I can't ever count on quiet time after school because the library is THE PLACE for all unexpected meetings. No one ever tells me about them in advance.
Inspire instead of bribe. Yep. Really thinking about getting rid of the "treasure box" next year.
Practice improvisation.
Simplify lessons.
Visualize. He suggests uninterrupted time before school. That won't happen unless I get there at 6:45. Which means leaving my house before 6. :/
Practice the growth mindset!
LISTEN.
Be consistently pleasant.
June 24, 2018
This little book was an easy read, not very deep, and not very difficult. The advice is largely good, but I feel his conclusions are often hyperbolic and unrealistic, such as when he says having a noteworthy aspect to each lesson will "mesmerize your students." I've taught for years and have never had a whole class full of students mesmerized by anything. His empathy for teachers' impossible workloads is welcome and right on target, because teaching is truly an endless, burdensome and often overwhelming job. I did not agree with everything he said, but overall he makes some good points. I don't know if school administrators would agree with his advice to disregard most of the new demands, dictates and educational theories that come down the pike every year, but taking it all with a grain of salt would certainly decrease teachers' stress levels. I think a big part of teaching is finding what works best for you, because every teacher is different, so I'll take Linsin's advice with a grain of salt too.
December 6, 2016
The advice is generally pretty good, but his argumentation style is not my favorite. I wish he would cut out several of the supporting anecdotes he peppers each chapter with as they can get repetitive without saying anything new. I also think the way he tends to make sweeping pronouncements about how trying out his advice will change you sounds too much like an infomercial, and I'm just as skeptical each and all of these things will occur as I would be watching this on late night tv. (And don't get me started on his using Monet (father of 8) and Tolstoy (father 0f 13) as examples of people who knew how to say no seems to lead only to the conclusion that they said no to parenting duties...)
May 6, 2019
Happy Life Habits
This book’s wisdom isn’t just good advice for becoming a happy teacher but is the recipe for a happy life. It is also a good way to help young teachers to recognize teachers that would be the best mentors or teachers to befriend and observe. I am going back to university after many years away to pursue my bachelor’s degree in education, due in part to this book and in part to a happy teacher I had the privilege to work with. I also plan to set up my classroom using the principles outlined in the book, so that I can start my career off on the right foot. I highly recommend this book to teachers, future teachers, administrators, and homeschool educators as well. It’s worth the time to read and implement the changes outlined.
This book’s wisdom isn’t just good advice for becoming a happy teacher but is the recipe for a happy life. It is also a good way to help young teachers to recognize teachers that would be the best mentors or teachers to befriend and observe. I am going back to university after many years away to pursue my bachelor’s degree in education, due in part to this book and in part to a happy teacher I had the privilege to work with. I also plan to set up my classroom using the principles outlined in the book, so that I can start my career off on the right foot. I highly recommend this book to teachers, future teachers, administrators, and homeschool educators as well. It’s worth the time to read and implement the changes outlined.
July 28, 2016
This is an honest, simple handbook to help teachers pare down and focus on what's really important. I am inspired to use several of the tips right away for the next school year and will definitely recommend this book to both new teachers and to those who are looking for ways to enjoy teaching again.
June 25, 2020
(★★★★☆) The word ‘career’ still makes me cringe, but six years into full-time teaching and I couldn’t agree more with the points made by Michael Linsin. With the 2019-2020 school year in the books (what bizarre spring) it’s time to look to the fall and take stock of what’s working, what needs tweaking, and what needs to be reimagined.
Teaching can be dizzying in its insistence on new instructional strategies, competency in content, classroom management, extracurricular commitments, tedious-ass meetings (@danielleloleary you keep them palatable 🤘🏻) and more. Linsin distills a great deal of wisdom in a few short pages to help educators (young and old) stay sane and not burnout. Big takeaways:
🎯 Focus on the 20% that makes the biggest difference in your happiness and teaching success.
🤹”We can only truly serve others when we have our act together.”
😵 If you do TOO MUCH there becomes a point of diminishing returns.
🌪 Keep your class tidy: too many varied objects make it difficult for students to concentrate and gives your class a sense of purposelessness.
💀 “The idea that, among all professions, teachers in particular must be martyrs who tragically throw themselves on the alter of education is not only absurd, but also damaging to our students.”
📚 “Be an expert in your content area and then lean on your ability to improvise.”
🧐 “Spend 2-3 minutes at the beginning of each day visualizing your lessons. Then simply act them out.”
👺 Seek to be ‘consistently pleasant’.
👨🏻🏫 Teach great lessons then shift responsibility to the students.
🥳 “Praising your students for minimal effort sends the msg that less than their best is worthy of special recognition. It lowers the bar for what constitutes truly hard work.”
Teaching can be dizzying in its insistence on new instructional strategies, competency in content, classroom management, extracurricular commitments, tedious-ass meetings (@danielleloleary you keep them palatable 🤘🏻) and more. Linsin distills a great deal of wisdom in a few short pages to help educators (young and old) stay sane and not burnout. Big takeaways:
🎯 Focus on the 20% that makes the biggest difference in your happiness and teaching success.
🤹”We can only truly serve others when we have our act together.”
😵 If you do TOO MUCH there becomes a point of diminishing returns.
🌪 Keep your class tidy: too many varied objects make it difficult for students to concentrate and gives your class a sense of purposelessness.
💀 “The idea that, among all professions, teachers in particular must be martyrs who tragically throw themselves on the alter of education is not only absurd, but also damaging to our students.”
📚 “Be an expert in your content area and then lean on your ability to improvise.”
🧐 “Spend 2-3 minutes at the beginning of each day visualizing your lessons. Then simply act them out.”
👺 Seek to be ‘consistently pleasant’.
👨🏻🏫 Teach great lessons then shift responsibility to the students.
🥳 “Praising your students for minimal effort sends the msg that less than their best is worthy of special recognition. It lowers the bar for what constitutes truly hard work.”
January 10, 2024
Thought-provoking and reassuring, at the same time!
I’m back in the classroom teaching for the first time in 7+ years, and I am determined to prevent the apathy or burnout that I know occurs in the teaching profession. I happened upon this book on my Kindle and started reading out of skeptical curiosity. However, I was soon hooked by the storytelling and easy-to-understand (and implement!) wisdom imparted by the author.
The author challenges educators to think about ever-changing education practices and encourages teachers to make small changes, like focusing on the 80/20 rule and using story-telling to get students invested in a lesson. Reading about how “Happy Teachers” tell stories was the perfect mindset switch to help me make my lessons more engaging.
Just yesterday, I took a boring lesson about classroom expectations and turned it into a story about two people traveling to a foreign country (one who ignored culture and another who observed and studied it before traveling). My middle school students were attentive and interested… and that’s no small feat for me.
The practical and actionable advice in the book “Happy Teacher Habits” is well worth the time it takes to read, and provokes critical thinking about the “why” of decisions educators make each day. I highly recommend this book for educators who are new or returning to the field, and those who feel that happiness is eluding them. 5/5 stars! I’m going to get a physical copy to keep at my desk as a reminder.
I’m back in the classroom teaching for the first time in 7+ years, and I am determined to prevent the apathy or burnout that I know occurs in the teaching profession. I happened upon this book on my Kindle and started reading out of skeptical curiosity. However, I was soon hooked by the storytelling and easy-to-understand (and implement!) wisdom imparted by the author.
The author challenges educators to think about ever-changing education practices and encourages teachers to make small changes, like focusing on the 80/20 rule and using story-telling to get students invested in a lesson. Reading about how “Happy Teachers” tell stories was the perfect mindset switch to help me make my lessons more engaging.
Just yesterday, I took a boring lesson about classroom expectations and turned it into a story about two people traveling to a foreign country (one who ignored culture and another who observed and studied it before traveling). My middle school students were attentive and interested… and that’s no small feat for me.
The practical and actionable advice in the book “Happy Teacher Habits” is well worth the time it takes to read, and provokes critical thinking about the “why” of decisions educators make each day. I highly recommend this book for educators who are new or returning to the field, and those who feel that happiness is eluding them. 5/5 stars! I’m going to get a physical copy to keep at my desk as a reminder.
February 15, 2020
The only thing that should be on teaching programs’ curriculum
Unlike many books that claim to aid you in your personal or professional development, this one actually does. Furthermore, unlike most books about teaching, it’s not vague and theoretical but one hundred percent hands-on, offering guidance that really is practically applicable in any grade level, subject matter and neighborhood.
The habits are presented straightforwardly, along with intriguing stories, making the book a very pleasant read, as well as showing in action how to put at least two of the habits to use - inspiring and being knowledgeable in your subject. The author’s own teaching skills shine through even in writing.
After I started incorporating these habits, my lessons became very different. I am working less hard and my students are behaving better. There is a new sense of calm in the classroom. I believe these habits are what students intuitively expect from a teacher, so when they are not carried out there is general unrest. I feel like this book gave me permission to truly teach - instead of complicating everything in a way that leaves everyone thoroughly confused, the way educational studies unfortunately do.
The advice of this book is such a relief. Any stressed out, miserable teacher could through applying these habits transform their work life beyond recognition.
Unlike many books that claim to aid you in your personal or professional development, this one actually does. Furthermore, unlike most books about teaching, it’s not vague and theoretical but one hundred percent hands-on, offering guidance that really is practically applicable in any grade level, subject matter and neighborhood.
The habits are presented straightforwardly, along with intriguing stories, making the book a very pleasant read, as well as showing in action how to put at least two of the habits to use - inspiring and being knowledgeable in your subject. The author’s own teaching skills shine through even in writing.
After I started incorporating these habits, my lessons became very different. I am working less hard and my students are behaving better. There is a new sense of calm in the classroom. I believe these habits are what students intuitively expect from a teacher, so when they are not carried out there is general unrest. I feel like this book gave me permission to truly teach - instead of complicating everything in a way that leaves everyone thoroughly confused, the way educational studies unfortunately do.
The advice of this book is such a relief. Any stressed out, miserable teacher could through applying these habits transform their work life beyond recognition.
June 17, 2022
I generally despise teacher self-help books, most especially when they are read in the summer but curiosity got the better of me on this one. I was genuinely surprised this time. I actually enjoyed most of this book.
The eleven habits are:
1. Narrow your focus to the 20% most important activities.
2. Say no to distractions.
3. Keep a tidy classroom.
4. Avoid external rewards.
5. Improvise more by preparing well enough to be an expert in your content area.
6. Bridge the curriculum and the hearts and minds of your students.
7. Envision or visualize lessons, discipline, and the sequence of the day.
8. Shift responsibility to the students after each lesson and avoid discussions.
9. Build trust and reliance on your class management plan.
10. Talk less.
11. Sieze the day.
Linsin does a good job of explaining each one without overexplaining. A lot of his message is about keeping balance by working on the things that matter and working less on everything else that doesn't, thereby avoiding burning out.
The eleven habits are:
1. Narrow your focus to the 20% most important activities.
2. Say no to distractions.
3. Keep a tidy classroom.
4. Avoid external rewards.
5. Improvise more by preparing well enough to be an expert in your content area.
6. Bridge the curriculum and the hearts and minds of your students.
7. Envision or visualize lessons, discipline, and the sequence of the day.
8. Shift responsibility to the students after each lesson and avoid discussions.
9. Build trust and reliance on your class management plan.
10. Talk less.
11. Sieze the day.
Linsin does a good job of explaining each one without overexplaining. A lot of his message is about keeping balance by working on the things that matter and working less on everything else that doesn't, thereby avoiding burning out.
February 5, 2020
Another wonderfully inspiring book from the Smart Classroom Manager
This is an amazing book. Both inspiring and useful. And the inspiration is useful itself, because it doesn't just get you excited about teaching, it shows you how to get excited about it as well,and how to use that excitement to fuel your practice every day. I loved the chapter on improvisation. After years of being told that good teaching is about what you get the children to do, not about "the save on the stage" it's wonderful to be told that yes, in fact, performing for the children is an important part of their learning, because it's how you get them ready to learn, engaged and inspired and interested in learning. Thank you, Michael. Your writing gives teachers what we desperately need in these mad times - a way not just to survive, but to thrive!
This is an amazing book. Both inspiring and useful. And the inspiration is useful itself, because it doesn't just get you excited about teaching, it shows you how to get excited about it as well,and how to use that excitement to fuel your practice every day. I loved the chapter on improvisation. After years of being told that good teaching is about what you get the children to do, not about "the save on the stage" it's wonderful to be told that yes, in fact, performing for the children is an important part of their learning, because it's how you get them ready to learn, engaged and inspired and interested in learning. Thank you, Michael. Your writing gives teachers what we desperately need in these mad times - a way not just to survive, but to thrive!
January 15, 2020
Read this book the summer after my 1st year of teaching. I wish I had known these habits in my first year. I took the advice given in this book (but as usual, with any self-help book, I take everything with a grain of salt) and put it into effect in my 2nd year. That was the best teaching year of my life thus far. I was in a really toxic working environment and just felt so empowered knowing I had these healthy habits in place. Each year after that, I obviously obtained new and valuable skills to add to my habits. So I was still a very happy teacher. I probably need to re-read this now that I moved to a different state to teach and need to be reminded of what I am capable of! Recommend to all teachers who struggled ANY year in their career.
July 16, 2020
I liked the fact that rather than giving strategies for practical teaching tips, this book sought to teach habits that fuel mindsets surrounding teaching that will decrease burnout and increase fulfillment in teaching! “Happiness in teaching doesn’t mean that you’ll always have a smile on your face. It doesn’t mean you won’t have to make tough decisions... It does mean, however, that you’ll have a definitive path to follow. It means that you’ll have the knowledge and skill to make an impact on your students that will last a lifetime... It means that you’ll have time for a life outside of school... The opportunity is there to have the teaching experience you desire, but it’s not going to come to you... go get it.” What an inspiring way to end the book!
July 8, 2022
I've never been a big fan of student rewards and this book solidified that feeling. Points and prizes put a price tag on what should be intrinsically rewarding. Volunteer (cleanup) taks CAN have points and prizes.
Tell stories, but also talk less. Don't walk students through every step. Don't buzz around the room-that causes learned helplessness. Step back, observe. Sit, listen. In fact, asking personal questions can have unintended effects--students on edge. Instead, be consistently pleasant and that develops trust.
Great tips. The 80/20 rule makes sense.
Tell stories, but also talk less. Don't walk students through every step. Don't buzz around the room-that causes learned helplessness. Step back, observe. Sit, listen. In fact, asking personal questions can have unintended effects--students on edge. Instead, be consistently pleasant and that develops trust.
Great tips. The 80/20 rule makes sense.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
November 26, 2017
Michael Linsin’s approaches to teaching are both down to earth and inspiring. In this, his latest book, he encourages teachers to develop habits that not only improve their quality of teaching, but also their quality of life. “The Happy Teacher Habits” is a quick read, but be sure to take your time digesting. Putting these ideas into practice is a sure way to bring you great happiness in teaching.
August 5, 2020
Simple guidelines with great stories
I was looking for a book to encourage me with turning my class upside down thanks to moving to virtual distance learning. There is a lot of noise about new strategies and reaching out, connecting, adapting, and what else. The last month has been overwhelming. After reading this book I realized I already have great había and practices that will guide me through this year. Focus on the 20%.
I was looking for a book to encourage me with turning my class upside down thanks to moving to virtual distance learning. There is a lot of noise about new strategies and reaching out, connecting, adapting, and what else. The last month has been overwhelming. After reading this book I realized I already have great había and practices that will guide me through this year. Focus on the 20%.
August 9, 2021
This was just generally fine - there was nothing wrong with it, but also nothing revolutionary. It did get kinda repetitive in some chapters, and there was more fluff than substance. Also, if you’re looking for practical examples of how to implement these habits, this book is not for you. Most of the “stories of success” come from non-teaching fields (sports, business, comedy) so I struggled to find a practical connection to my classroom. Overall, I’m just left feeling… meh.
October 14, 2022
I really connect with this author and his views on teaching and how to be an effective teacher. I’ve been following his articles on his website for awhile now and finally decided to read some of his books.
Once I started reading this book tonight, I could not stop. It made me happy to know that I already have and display most of the habits laid out in the book, but it also provided me with some useful suggestions and tips that I can implement in my teaching practice going forward.
Once I started reading this book tonight, I could not stop. It made me happy to know that I already have and display most of the habits laid out in the book, but it also provided me with some useful suggestions and tips that I can implement in my teaching practice going forward.
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December 2, 2023I loved this little book, filled with common sense strategies for teachers, guiding them to stay sane in such a demanding profession and/or GET sane when needed. There are 11 chapters with thoughtful commentary about the value of "saying no" to reduce overwhelm and spreading oneself too thin; tidying up one's living and teaching spaces (which, when messy, can also drain energy); and so much more. I highly recommend this book for anyone in the teaching profession!
June 16, 2024
So good and empowering. All while being so simple and direct.
“The opportunity is there to have the teaching experience you desire, but it’s not going to come to you. No one is going to hold your hand or come to your rescue. You have to climb up on that horse all by yourself, lift your eyes to the horizon, and go get it.”
Honorable mention: “The best, and most confident teachers had classrooms that were notably lacking in clutter… the more immaculate the classroom, the more effective the teacher.”
“The opportunity is there to have the teaching experience you desire, but it’s not going to come to you. No one is going to hold your hand or come to your rescue. You have to climb up on that horse all by yourself, lift your eyes to the horizon, and go get it.”
Honorable mention: “The best, and most confident teachers had classrooms that were notably lacking in clutter… the more immaculate the classroom, the more effective the teacher.”
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