Let It Go
As summer wraps up, I am reminded that the start of the school year is often filled with hope and promise. There is often a sense of renewed commitment to making changes. In essence, for many people, September feels like a mini “new year” with a fresh start. Parents often feel a sense of relief with kids being back in school (especially after the challenges of the past 18 months!) However, parents also sometimes feel the pressure of meeting the demands of the school year, and the return to extracurricular activities.
Sadly, the novelty of new school supplies often fades quickly. (One of my daughters says that she feels like when her notebook covers start to fall off, she starts to fall apart- lol!). Moms need to adjust the expectations they have for themselves. Here’s my public service announcement: It’s ok to use plastic snack baggies as opposed to re-usable containers when trying to find the rhythm of making lunches once again! (Mother nature will forgive us for needing to cut a few corners as we get everyone out the door on time!)
Even for people who are no longer following the “school” calendar, the end of summer often brings a shift in focus. As we welcome the fall season, it’s a good time to think about the things that you can let “fall” away. (I would suggest letting go of the vision of being a “pinterest” parent!) There are numerous quotes that reflect autumn as a reminder of the beauty that comes with change. Change is hard, even when it is positive change, and even if it is a shift that we initiate.
When changes are forced upon us, it can be difficult to surrender to them. However, change is inevitable, and just as the leaves will transform through autumn, there will be new buds in the spring (and the need for a lot of allergy medicine- lol!)
Remember that this pesky pandemic has helped us connect with our ability to adapt to change (even when we don’t like it!) This fall may be a good time to choose an area where you would like to make a change. Like the trees, it may be a great time to figure out what you are ready to release (if only until the spring!)
Here are some mantras that are focused on letting go (or, you can just channel your inner Elsa and Anna!)
https://wildsimplejoy.com/affirmations-for-letting-go/