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Hi everyone! It seems like quite a while since I've written a post, but now that everyone has gotten to introduce themselves, I'm back! Before we get into the post, I just want to let you know that this is written as part of a collaboration with @studywithus2021 on Instagram. They'll have an Instagram post on the same topic which you can click here to see.
Whether the summer has flown or dragged by, it's finally come to an end. I'm actually kind of looking forward to going back to to school (though I'm sure I'm in a minority!) because I'm not going into a year of exams, and TY is something new. But the last day of summer can often be a bit stressful. I often feel like there's a lot of pressure to have a really good day, and to do Something™️, so you don't waste what little time you have left. If you find yourself feeling like this too, hopefully this post will help you.
Wake up Early
While there's no need to wake up quite as early as you're going to need to the next day, it's a good idea to wake up no more than an hour later than you're going to need to tomorrow. This way it won't be such a shock to the system when you have to wake up early. As you're reading this it will actually be my last day of summer, so we'll see how well I stick to my own advice! (Edit: I woke up a little bit late, but still early enough so I'm going to count it as a win) This might also help the day feel a bit longer.
Don't Feel Pressured to Do Loads
I wouldn't recommend lying in bed all day doing nothing (but hey; if that's what you want to do, go for it), but you don't have to have a super busy last day if you don't want to. I think we sometimes have a tendency to try and make up for anything we didn't do during the summer on the last day, but you'll only end up stressing yourself out. Maybe try and get out to see your friends or spend some time with family.
Pack Your Bag
If you're more organised than me (which is probably likely), your bag may have been packed and ready the second the Junior Cert ended. But I always tend to leave everything until the last minute so my bag is definitely not packed yet. I kind of like doing stuff like this the day before; it helps me to get into the school mindset. It's also a nice way to feel productive without doing anything too taxing :)
Start Getting Ready for Bed Early
Even if you know you won't be able to sleep early (I never can before the first day), it's a good idea to start getting ready early. This way you'll be starting to relax instead of being stressed towards the end of the day. Here's some things you can do to help you start to relax.
Check Your Uniform
This is a very obvious one to put in, but I only say it because there are few things more annoying than trying to find a sock while you're half asleep, or waking up to find there's a button coming off your shirt you need to sew back on. Save yourself the stress!
Skincare Routine
I always find that taking the time to do my skincare routine properly can be very relaxing, but I'm usually too lazy to do the whole thing. If you're like me, take this opportunity to treat yourself and take the time to do it properly.
Watch a Movie/TV Show
While you shouldn't do this too close to bed (blue light and all that), watching your favourite movie or TV show can be very calming if you're feeling stressed. It kind of lets your brain shut off for a bit.
Write!
Writing this blog post has been quite helpful for preparing me for school, so maybe writing something similar could help you too. If you keep a journal, now might be a good time to add an entry.
Listen to Music/Meditate
I know that going back to school can be a big source of anxiety for some people. If you find yourself feeling particularly stressed, worried, or anxious, take the time to listen to some music or meditate if you find it helpful. There's loads of meditation guides on YouTube, but the Headspace app is also great. Even if you don't think it will help, it might be worth a try.
That's all of my advice for now. Good luck on your first day back, hopefully this guide will help you. If you think this may also help someone else, please take the time to share it. If you'd like to be notified of new posts, you can subscribe on the "Contact" page. Check our Instagram for some more exclusive advice here.
- Ella
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