A New Chapter

Now that we're in 2021, we need to look at ourselves and know that we did it! We made it through 2020! We adapted, we gave our all, and we worked through a year like no other. We taught on google classrooms, had numerous online meetings, went back to work in bubbles and some had to isolate for 14 days.

2020 has officially ended! This new year starts with so many aspirations, anxieties and questions. The first question I thought was do I buy a planner? Then I thought, should I make plans this year at all? With all that has happened last year it’s easy to feel demotivated, and apprehensive about 2021. However, as I reflect on 2020; I can’t help but, feel gratitude. 2020 taught us to appreciate the small things, to appreciate our family and revealed the value of those who work in the NHS but also in education.

So, as we approach a new year, I am making plans! I am setting goals! I am refocusing!

Goal number 1. Make time for myself

Considering the amount of time, we spent at home due to lockdown, it may seem crazy to set this as a goal. But during the Autumn term I spoke to so many teachers who felt like they were constantly running and had no time. Therefore, my first goal is to make myself a number one priority; to take the time to relax and have at least one weekend a month whereby I actually have no plans.

Goal Number 2. Remember you are only HUMAN!

In education we are constantly juggling so many plates; marking, planning, data, behaviour management and our own career aspirations, the list could go on and on, but we are only human. Know your limit, tomorrow is another day, go home early once in a while, meet up with friends - live your life!

Goal Number 3. Exercise

I’m sure every year people add this to their New Year’s Resolutions and by February this goal becomes a distant memory. However exercise is amazing at supporting your mental health, so even if your third goal is not exercise consider setting a goal that will help your mental health (such as mindfulness).

Every year we see the meme above, towards the end of last year I saw it and laughed at first. Then I reflected and realised 2021 will be what we make it. We may need to adapt; we may need to refocus once again, but we made it through last year therefore we will make it through this year. Wishing you all a Happy 2021!