Overwhelmed?

A Self-Talk Strategy for Teachers

By Dr. Katherine Stover

by Psalm 61:2 (KJV)

“When my heart is overwhelmed: lead me to the rock that is higher than I.” — Psalm 61:2

In the daily whirlwind of teaching—lesson plans, discipline issues, parent emails, meetings, and more—it’s easy to feel overwhelmed. But what if that feeling isn’t a red flag of failure, but an invitation?

David’s words in Psalm 61:2 offer a powerful self-talk strategy rooted in scripture. He acknowledges his weakness (“when my heart is overwhelmed”), but he doesn’t stay there. He redirects: “Lead me to the rock that is higher than I.”

Let’s break that down:

• “Overwhelmed” in Hebrew is ʿaṭaph—to faint or grow feeble.

• “Lead” is nāchâ—to guide or bring to rest.

• “Rock” is tsûr—a refuge or stronghold.

David isn’t complaining—he’s climbing. His language lifts him from despair to determination. And that’s the secret to sanctified self-talk: Speak what lifts you, not what traps you.

Here’s a simple declaration to practice this week:

“When I feel overwhelmed, I won’t stay there.I’m being led to higher ground.God is my strength and refuge.I am not feeble—I am fortified in Christ.”

When you find yourself under pressure, take a 60-second break. Whisper this Psalm. Let your internal dialogue align with the Word, not your worry.

As a school leader, I encourage you to guide your team this way, too. Speak stability. Be a calm voice. Post Psalm 61:2 in your office, or send it in a note to your staff. Your words may be the rope someone else uses to climb back up.

Teaching is sacred work. So is protecting your self-talk.

And when your heart is overwhelmed—go higher.

Let’s go higher, together.—Dr. Katherine Stover