Monday October 21st 6.30 - 7pm
It has been a roller coaster year and a half which has impacted everyone, especially those in formal education. With September upon us, and the return of school, college or university being just around the corner for many, it can bring up mixed feelings from excitement to seeing friends and starting a new chapter, to a level of anxiety with the return of a routine and the uncertainty of how the year will unfold.
I’m sure for those with children or those who are in contact with someone returning to their studies, a smooth start to their year is all we hope for. Like many things in life, a great way to allow this to happen is by planning ahead and being intentional with our actions and conversations. This is why this week I wanted to share some simple steps you can take to do just that:
1. Ask open questions and listen: It may seem obvious but having conversations can really help to eliminate those fears and anxieties for people returning to their studies. Asking questions such as how they feel about returning and if they have any concerns, what are they most looking forward to and what do they want to achieve this year, are great ways to start a conversation, understand what they are going through, provide a listening ear and set some positive goals for the year ahead.
2. Create a routine: Summer holidays are amazing and for many, allow more of a relaxed start to the day over the summer months. But when that alarm clock rings at 7am on the first Monday of term, it can end up being a real struggle to just get up, let alone being ready to take on that first lesson. To help reduce those blurry eyes and temptation to hit the snooze button, why not start a week before? Getting up, going to bed, and eating at regular times can help to create that routine again so it is not a shock to the system on day one.
3. Arrange a meet up before the first day: It may have been some time since classmates have met each other. Arranging a date for friends to meet before they return to school formally can be a great way for them to let off some steam, but also help build confidence and reduce the anxiety levels before the first day.
4. Check in with yourself: I’m sure for many parents or loved ones, the first day of term may bring up some nerves too. As well as asking great questions to others, don’t forget to check in with yourself. Taking a few minutes out of your day to go for a walk or even sitting in silence can be a helpful way to listen to your body and mind, and if concerns do come up, don’t be afraid to ask for help whether it be from those around you, or by getting in touch with the school directly.
These simple steps can go a long way to easing our anxiety, and it’s not just for those going back to school, why not consider some of these for your every day Monday, before starting the new week.
It all starts with a simple action.
With love,
Sarah
