‘Tis the season to be jolly…. but I am sure that feeling hasn’t set in yet as you are more likely to be feeling exhausted, fatigued and worn out. Christmas is nearly here and we may all have a little bit of that ‘let down’ effect over the next week, especially after the year that we have just had.
As you walk into school for the last day of the 2020 school year, give yourself a little pat on the back for your achievements this year. It truly has been a mighty effort. I could just use the rest of this article to keep praising you and celebrating your achievements, but instead, I’ll take this last opportunity to be a little helpful and leave you with a few tips for finishing a school year well.
1. Find the Balance… You may want to be well-prepared for day 1, term 1 or the entire year but don’t spend your entire break totally consumed in your work. It’s important to prioritise your own wellbeing and get some well-earned R&R.
2. It will be there when you come back…. An extension of #1. There is never enough time in schools and we always have unfinished business. You will hit a point when you have to prioritise that long list and there will be some tasks that just don’t get your attention. Don’t worry, you can guarantee that it’ll still be there when you return next year, or if you are lucky, it’ll be forgotten and that will be one less thing you need to do.
3. Break the ice, repair the damage or relieve the tension… As much as we all want a harmonious and feel-good work environment, it doesn’t always play out that way. If there has been a bit of unrest or conflict, try and clear the air before your break starts. Maybe it’s an apology, a handshake or even just wishing that person well over the Christmas period.
4. Let go of any guilt or worry….. You don’t want to carry negative energy into the break. We all wish we had of done something a bit better, that’s the beauty of hindsight. Although most other professionals would disagree, our holidays are too short and too valuable to spend worrying. Further to this, some practical advice is not to over-indulge on the last day drinks. You don’t want to be having regrets or flashbacks all holidays about what you said or did.
5. The best present you can give is to be present… If you are looking for the perfect gift for your family, just make sure you are present. Enjoy the moment and all the celebrations that go with this amazing time of the year. Don’t be distracted by the past or even what lies ahead.
Oh, and here is my number 6, it’s super important… Clean the office fridge out. There is nothing worse than starting a school year with the waft of mouldy milk or two-month-old left-overs. You won’t get thanked for doing this one, but you will get criticised if it doesn’t happen.
The journey this year may not have been easy, but now that the final bell rings on 2020, it’s time for you to take a bow. You deserve it!
Have a great break.
Warm regards,
