Teens, pre-teens and in-betweens are all back at school this week. Rest assured, Maggie Rose has you covered with a self-help guide for the unexcited student.

Wait, the holidays are over? It only seemed like yesterday that the next school year was a lifetime away. Sadly, the holidays are coming to a close and students are now preparing to go back to school. For some, it can be a happy occasion, for others it can be an unhappy one. As soon as TV ads start blurting out their ‘back to sales’ jingle, a sense of unease sets off. Not to worry – for many students it can be hard to adjust to the new school year, and to make the process a little bit easier, here are some top tips to get motivated and ready for the year ahead.

Be Positive

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Turn that frown upside down. Every student starts the year off the same, remember you’re all in the same boat. If you start off with a clear positive mind you’ll be able to solve any problems you have early on with a level head.

Organisation is Key

Make a list of all the school supplies you need for each subject. It doesn’t hurt to colour co-ordinate each subject as well. It’s best to write up all of your assignments and tasks (including their dates) as you soon as you get them, and pin them up on a wall planner, which you can get here. This way, you have a clear idea of when all of your assignments are due, so you won’t have any nasty surprises leap out at you.

Think Ahead

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What do you want this year to mean to you? What do you want to achieve? Set out a list of goals you want to achieve by the end of the year. These goals could be anything: higher grades; a better running time on the track… Keep a list of these goals in a journal or above your desk, that way you have a constant motivator to keep you going all year round.

Get Involved

There are so many extra-curricular activities at school these days! Join one of the many sports teams or the after school theatre sports class. Build up the courage and be in the annual school musical you’ve always wanted to be in. Another great reason to get involved is the people you’re going to meet. It’s always good to have another friendly face in the crowd.

Friends

Speaking of friendly faces, friends are an important part of high school. Remember, it doesn’t matter how many friends you have, it matters who values your worth as a person and cares for you no matter what.

Talk About It

You’re not alone. There’s always someone to talk to: your friends; a counsellor; or teacher. Don’t be afraid to ask for help – it can seem daunting, but you’ll feel a lot better knowing there’s someone who cares for you enough to help you.