All of us need someone to talk with who understands how we feel and validates our perceptions and experiences. Sometimes it takes more than one person to provide us with both understanding and helpful advice. Many school districts and schools have special programs that link beginning teachers with experienced peers and mentors. Ask your administrator if a program like this exists on a local level. You may also want to participate in the mentoring program offered by the Florida Department of Education. You can find out more about the DOE Tele-Mentoring program for teachers by clicking here. You may also want to ask your department chair, subject area leader or grade leader to recommend an experienced teacher who would be willing to meet with you a few minutes each week on an informal basis. Or you can ask a faculty member on your own if he or she would be willing to assist you in adjusting to your new job. It is very important at the beginning of your career to align yourself with positive professionals. These may be teachers you've observed and admired their ability to work with students or their thoughtful remarks at meetings. It might be a teacher who has been selected as your school's teacher of the year or awarded other honors. Listen carefully and observe the people at your school who are respected by their peers. They will be excellent colleagues for you to cultivate. Friends you have who teach at other schools also may be very helpful to you. Finally, while you may think it is easier to discuss what is happening to you with friends or family outside school, remember to protect the privacy of your students and colleagues. If you find yourself constantly complaining to your friends about your job, school or students, you are probably compromising your ability to become a successful teacher. A true professional looks for solutions, not opportunities to complain. Take the time to find someone at school or in the field of education who can truly help you to become the teacher you want to be.