Whether you are busy getting your loved ones ready for the start of the new academic year and the autumn term, going back to work without the headache and complexities of engineering the school holidays, or using this time for ‘chapters new,’ this blog is about embracing what’s been, and what’s to come!
As the summer days grow shorter and the autumnal weather is patiently waiting in the wings, it’s definitely a sign that school holidays and our summer are drawing to a close. Whether the school break was filled with lazy days at the beach, adventurous travel, days out, or simply soaking in time with friends and family, the shift back to school and the changes that may bring, can feel like a mixed bag of emotions. For some, this time can’t come quick enough as it means getting back to routine, but for others, it can feel quite daunting. However, this time of year and the transition can be a time of renewal, growth, and fresh opportunities.
Take time to reflect on the Holidays
Before diving back into the busyness of the academic year, it’s worth pausing for a moment to reflect on the holidays. Think about the highlights—whether it was a new hobby you picked up, memorable moments with loved ones, or even just the simple pleasure of extra sleep and leisure. These memories are important. They remind us of the value of rest and play, and they give us something to look back on when the months ahead inevitably get hectic.
The end of the holidays doesn’t mean leaving the fun behind; it’s about carrying those experiences forward. Whether it’s the confidence gained from trying something new or the lessons learned through travel or summer reading, your break probably added depth to who you are -and that’s definitely worth embracing before heading back into the familiar, new or different routine.
Preparing for the New School Year
Transitioning back to the ‘normality of the school routine’ can be daunting, but preparation can make all the difference. Take these last few days as a chance to organise and set yourself up for success. Clean out your workspace, stock up on supplies, plan forward and check appointments, meetings etc in advance of juggling school drop-offs and pick-ups. Most importantly, prepare your mind for the challenges ahead and remember to factor in time for “YOU”.
Preparation isn’t just about the practical stuff. It’s also mental and emotional. Improving personal habits like time management and self-care can give you direction and motivation as well as alleviate stress.
Embracing the Routine
After weeks of spontaneity and freedom, the structure of the academic year, school, college and university, might feel restricting, but routine can be your best friend. It brings a sense of stability that, after a long summer, can be a welcome change. Routine helps you manage your time more effectively, build good habits, and balance responsibilities with leisure and down-time.
Using the structure of the school year can work to your advantage. Build time into your schedule for hobbies, exercise, and socialising—these things shouldn’t fall by the wayside just because the back-to-school routine has started.
Looking Ahead
I’ve always felt more aligned with the ‘New Year’ vibe in September. For me, the end of the holiday season marks the beginning of something new—fresh opportunities, new challenges, and the next chapter in my personal, working and professional development journey.
I always feel more refreshed and ‘ready’ after the summer. I’m not sure if that’s because I’m a July birthday, used to working in education, or a combination of the two! Whatever the reason, I encourage you to embrace this time of year with an open mind. The fast-approaching school year is a blank canvas waiting to be filled with experiences, growth, and personal achievement.
Remember that every new beginning comes with its own set of possibilities.
So, as you pack up your beach towels and summer novels, and pull out ‘back to school’ supplies and planners, know that you’re not leaving the joy of the holiday behind. You’re carrying it with you, ready to infuse that energy into everything you do in the year ahead.
Here’s to another September, the traditional new school year—may it be one filled with learning, growth, and plenty of unforgettable moments.
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