ABSTRACT
Perfectionism works against special education teachers. Those who last in the profession find a way to hold themselves to a high set of standards without driving themselves into burnout based on unrealistic personal expectations. Perfectionism can create a great deal of stress considering the extent of responsibilities special education teachers face. This chapter involves tools to help special education teachers celebrate progress over perfection. It invites them to be authentic and real with their students, modeling that mistakes are a part of the learning process. Additional tools help special education teachers define their roles and set up clear parameters for their work so that it does not become all-consuming. This chapter will help them learn to let go of perfectionism and replace it with a focus on what truly matters: loving students, building relationships and supporting learning.
