What are the three PS in teaching?

The Three Ps in Teaching: A Mindset for Resilience

Teaching is rewarding, but it’s also demanding. Long days, unexpected challenges, and emotional highs and lows are part of the job. That’s where the Three Ps come in—not as a lesson plan, but as a mental framework to help educators stay grounded.

First, the Personal reminder: when something goes wrong in the classroom, it’s easy to internalize it. “Was it my fault?” “Could I have done better?” While reflection is healthy, beating yourself up isn’t. The truth is, many factors—student circumstances, curriculum gaps, even the weather—affect a lesson’s outcome. Self-compassion matters. You’re not failing; you’re learning.

Next is Permanent. We’ve all had days where everything seems to go wrong—tech fails, students are restless, nothing clicks. It’s tempting to think, “This is how it’s always going to be.” But the reality? Setbacks are temporary. A tough class period doesn’t mean a tough career. Tomorrow brings new energy, new chances to connect and grow.

Finally, there’s Pervasive. One missed target, one difficult parent conversation, or one failed lesson doesn’t define your entire journey. Teachers sometimes fall into the trap of generalizing: “I’m just not good at this.” But a single moment is just that—one moment. It doesn’t overshadow the countless times you’ve made a difference, big or small.

The Three Ps aren’t about lowering standards—they’re about perspective. By challenging personalization, permanence, and pervasiveness in negative thoughts, educators can build emotional resilience. And in a profession where giving is constant, learning to support yourself is just as important as supporting your students.