Wednesday 16th July 2025 - Switching off isn't easy but I am learning.

I’m Hayley, and I’m a workaholic.

There, I’ve said it. Not in the jokey, “aren’t we all so busy” kind of way — but in the real, heart-racing-at-11pm, replying-to-WhatsApps-while-eating-dinner kind of way.  The constantly checking social media and replying to messages kind of way. The damaging kind of way. 

Running HWL Expert Tuition Network is a privilege, and I genuinely love what I do. I love the challenge of helping students unlock their potential. I love designing masterclasses that actually make a difference.  I love matching families with the perfect tutor. But when you love what you do and your work is your business — boundaries blur fast.

 A chest infection last week was a timely reminder to slow down.  Ironically I left my role as a Director Of English as I was really unhappy with the  workload - leaving the house at 6.30am, meetings from 7.30, teaching a pretty near full timetable and then meetings after school.  I used to get home around 7pm, grab something to eat and then work until gone midnight.  Again, I loved what I did but I realised that this wasn't sustainable and the big thing - financially I didn't NEED to work all those hours now. 

Recently, I’ve been working with a lovely lady called Claire on mindset. She’s helped me see something I knew deep down but needed to face head-on: I wasn’t switching off — not even close. And as much as I pride myself on being reliable, committed and responsive, I also need to be well-rested, creative and healthy. Because this business doesn’t run unless I do.

Here’s what I’ve been doing differently:

Time Blocking My Day

I now set focused “deep work” slots where I don’t check messages, don’t refresh emails, and don’t scroll Canva! It’s incredible how much more efficient I am when I protect my attention.

Getting a Separate Work Phone

Game-changer. I now choose my working hours - you can't be at your desk at 8am when you're tutoring until 9pm!  I also set 'out of office messages on my phone and email so that parents know I'm not around but I will get back to them. 

 Scheduling Self-Care Like I Would a Meeting

Walks. Baths. Fresh air. Even just five minutes with a book that isn’t about business strategy. If it’s not in the diary, it doesn’t happen. So now, I block it in — no guilt.

Being Honest with Clients and Tutors

This one felt scary, but I’ve started being transparent about my availability. You know what? People get it. We’re all human. Modelling healthy boundaries gives others permission to do the same. I’m still learning. Still catching myself slipping into “just one more email” mode. But I’m also realising that switching off isn’t a luxury — it’s a business strategy.

To all the other self-employed educators out there: you don’t have to earn your rest. You already do more than enough. And if you need a nudge to switch off? Let this be it.

I would definitely recommend:  Positively Productive by Kelly Cookson to help with organisation and avoiding burn out. 

For relaxation - Currently reading "Famous last words" by Gillian Mcallister and it is amazing so far!