The aim of this study was to examine the interrelation between teachers' proactive strategies and perceived teacher–working environment fit that would be mediated by the socio-contextual burnout experience. Altogether 2310 Finnish teachers completed the study's survey. The results indicate that teachers can learn the kinds of strategies that allow them to reduce burnout and construct a better working environment fit. Both the learning and use of the strategies is highly embedded in a school's social interactions. •Proactive strategies are beneficial in reducing teacher burnout.•Both self- and co-regulation strategies are key to successful problem solving.•The effect of strategies on perceived fit is mediated by burnout experience.