I’m working in an educational institution as a project manager where I’m required to guide students in their projects implementation. Not a faculty but half of my role is similar to those of a teacher. Recently I’ve been quite overwhelmed not just by the usual admin load on my plate, but also through my interactions with students. I’m willing to listen to them share their personal life with them. However there are also times where their problems have become my problems, e.g. not being able to submit deliverables because of their other commitments, having to withdraw from project because of fallout with team members. As their project manager, I’m very tired of having to troubleshoot for them while worrying my work performance as well. Are the youths these days all becoming more self-centric? At the end of the day, as much I am wearing the educator’s hat, I’m also a human who has a limit for these.
Hi Zendyll
Thank you for your courage in bringing up the struggles you are experiencing with the students you work with. Your feelings of frustration are fully valid and understandable. On the one hand, you want to help them, but cannot help but feel you end up owning their problems.
Furthermore you shared that getting involved in their problems takes away precious time and focus from your own work and is already affecting your own work performance and mental health.
I do think that it is very commendable how understanding and flexible you have been towards these students and have gone out of your way at times to help them. 
However, it may not be sustainable and can lead to your burnout.
May I suggest the following pointers that could help you strike the right balance:
Set Boundaries
Establish clear limits to maintain your well-being and work performance. Prioritize your tasks and delegate when possible.
Empathy doesn’t mean taking on their problems
Offer guidance and resources, but avoid taking ownership of their issues. Refrain from offering to do what rightfully should be done by them. Slowly, practise being more protective of your time and attention. Refer them to other resources such as counsellors or school mentors/coordinators.
Self-care is vital
Make time for activities that help you recharge and manage stress.
Seek support for yourself
Share your concerns with colleagues, supervisors, or mentors to find ways to manage your workload and emotional demands.
Remember, being an effective educator and project manager requires balance, empathy, and self-awareness. Prioritize your well-being to maintain your optimal ability to support your students.
Hi CaringBee
Thank you for the lovely note. My colleagues have warned me about potential burnout but somehow I have always managed to find a way to convince (or deceive) myself that these are part and parcel of adulting. In my mind, I tend to think that sharing these troubles would also make me look like someone who can’t endure stress, especially when I’m with colleagues who are managing heavier workload.
I appreciate the steps you have provided and would try them out!
Hi @Zendyll,
It sounds like you have a lot on your plate and are dealing with a difficult situation. It’s normal to feel overwhelmed when you are in a role that requires you to guide and support others. It’s important for you to also focus on your well-being and set boundaries to protect your own mental and emotional health. It’s understandable for students to face challenges when balancing their personal and academic lives, and it’s clear that you care deeply about their well-being. It might be helpful to have open and honest conversations with your students about the boundaries of your role as a project manager. This will help them understand the level of support you can provide while also maintaining your own well-being. Remember, it’s okay to prioritize your own needs too.
Hi HanSolo
Thank you for taking time to read through my story. I’ll try to prioritise my self-care time and hopefully my students are more understanding.