Hey there kids, it’s amazing that you’re already diving into the third week of the new school year. You’ve got your thinking caps on, backpacks ready and you’re ready to continue your educational journey.

Remember your last academic year? It was filled with all sorts of adventures, some that went exactly as planned and others that brought unexpected twists. This year, you’ve been granted another opportunity to conquer new goals, make friends and uncover even more amazing things!

So, let’s take a moment to look back on the previous year and consider how we can introduce positive changes to avoid repeating past mistakes.

The magic of setting goals

Think about the goals you set last year. Maybe you aimed to read more books, make new friends, or excel in a certain subject like math or chemistry. Some of you might have achieved those goals, but let’s also remember that not every goal is met without challenges along the way. Maybe you set a goal to read a certain number of books and didn’t reach that mark, or perhaps you failed in a test that you never imagined you will.

But that’s perfectly fine! Challenges and moments that don’t go as planned are part of the journey. They’re opportunities for learning, growth and resilience. So, as you set new goals for this year, keep in mind that it’s okay if things don’t go perfectly. Each experience, whether it’s a success or a challenge, adds to your story and helps shape who you are becoming.

Write down your goals once again, just like you did last year. And this time, remember to embrace both the victories and the struggles.

Simple organisation skills

In the school year that just passed, there might have been times when finding your pencils in your school bag was like searching for a needle in a haystack, and your notebooks seemed to play hide-and-seek with you. And that one important paper, maybe it had the points for an assignment or it was the note from your teacher that you searched everywhere … but it was never found. And this is what we have to change this year. It is a chance to step up and make things even smoother.

Keep your stationery, papers and notebooks in their designated places — a small effort that pays off big. Even when you’re busy, taking just a minute to keep things tidy can save you loads of time later. Isn’t a minute worth investing to prevent future hassles? I believe it is.

Now, about organisation — it’s the key to success in everything! Using separate folders for each subject isn’t just a good idea, it’s a great one. No more rummaging through heaps of papers to find what you need. Each subject gets its own comfy corner.

Remember, this goes beyond neatness — it’s about setting yourself up for success, one organised step at a time.

Amazing adventures in class

Think back to the previous school year. Remember how on some days you might not have been fully present in class or missed out on important discussions? Well, this new school year is your chance to improve and make the most out of your classroom experience.

Think of your classes as important gatherings where you learn new things and explore the subjects you’re curious about. Remember the importance of being an active participant. One important rule is to make sure you attend every class. Being present isn’t just about showing up physically, it’s about being engaged mentally as well. Paying attention helps you gather all the information and insights your teacher is sharing. If you ever have questions or you’re curious about something, don’t hesitate to ask. Your curiosity is like a key which unlocks deeper understanding.

And here’s the great part as you join in class discussions and share your thoughts, you’re not just talking — you’re learning from others and helping them learn from you. Every person in your class has unique ideas and by speaking up, you contribute to a learning environment. Each class is a valuable opportunity to learn something new and to connect with your teachers and peers.

The secrets of time management

Time is a precious resource — one that we can’t create more of, no matter how hard we try. This simple truth underscores the incredible value of managing our time wisely.

Imagine looking back at the previous school year. Were there moments when you wished you had more time for things you love or for completing your tasks without stress? This new school year gives you the opportunity to refine your time management skills and experience the positive impact it can have on your life.

Perhaps, in the past, you might have felt rushed or overwhelmed, struggling to juggle your schoolwork, hobbies and relaxation. Or there were times when you wished you could stretch a day to fit everything in. While we can’t change the length of a day, we can certainly shape how we utilise it.

Making a schedule that includes dedicated time for learning, playing and resting is the best thing you can do. By following this plan, you’re ensuring that you allocate enough time for both your responsibilities and your entertainment. It’s like giving each part of your day its own rightful space, just like arranging puzzle pieces into a complete picture.

You can make things work this time because you’re armed with knowledge from the past year when you ill-planned and misjudged the scheduling of your tasks. You’ve seen how effective time management can lead to accomplishments, reduce stress and give you more opportunities to engage in activities you love.

The incredible strength of friendship

As we look back and try not to repeat the things we did in the past year, let’s dive into the true depth of friendship — a force that shapes our school experience in profound ways. Think about times gone by, when you might have encountered situations where trust was tested or loyalty was questioned. Perhaps you’ve experienced instances where a friend’s actions left you feeling deceived or uncertain. These experiences, though challenging, provide valuable lessons that can guide you to sail smoothly in the present.

It is likely that in the past, there might have been moments when you needed a friend’s support the most, but found yourself navigating those moments alone. These experiences, although tough, serve as reminders of the significance of having true companions by your side. Now, as you step into this new school year, you’re armed with insights that can shape the way you cultivate friendships. Cherish the loyal friends who have stood by you and strive to be that steadfast friend for others.

The quest for self-care

As we reflect on the past and look upon the present, it’s clear that on some days we are full of energy, while on others, we might feel a bit dimmed. There are times when our minds and bodies just aren’t in sync. Looking back, you might recall instances when illnesses lingered, affecting your daily routine. Maybe you skipped your meals or compromised on your sleep. As a result, you may have found yourself absent from school, or even if you were present, your energy levels might have dropped, affecting your concentration in class.

This is the perfect time for a fresh beginning — an opportunity to welcome positive changes into your life, a chance to learn from the past and choose a healthier path. Consider the power of small changes. A balanced diet, sufficient sleep and regular exercise contribute to your overall well-being. These habits not only keep illnesses at bay, but also ensure that your energy levels remain stable, allowing you to fully participate in school and life.

The magic of trying again

Whether you’re a wizard, an explorer or anyone else, we all have our moments when things don’t quite go as planned. Those are the moments when you might have felt like you stumbled. But here is a fact to remember, stumbling isn’t falling. Mistakes are just stepping stones that guide you toward success.

They’re reminders that it’s okay to take risks, to dare to explore the unknown. Every time you stumble, you gather the wisdom that lights your path. Now, as you embark on a new chapter, embrace the magic of trying again. Embrace the magic of turning your missteps into victories. Mistakes aren’t signs of failure; they’re invitations to discover new strategies, to refine your skills and to become more resilient.

And don’t be scared of challenging subjects or new things coming in your way. Embrace them with a brave heart and you’ll discover that you’re capable of amazing things you never thought possible.

As we embrace this new school year, remember that it’s a blank page waiting to be filled with your stories of triumphs, growth and unforgettable experiences. Just like a skilled author, write your journey just the way you want — a book where each chapter builds upon the previous one. Just as you’ve learned from the past, this year you’re equipped to make better choices, set clearer goals and navigate the twists and turns with resilience. As you step forward, let the lessons of yesterday guide your decisions today.

So, keep your enthusiasm high, your curiosity fuelled and your determination unshaken. You’re the author of your story and this year is your canvas to paint with new friendships, exciting discoveries and continuous learning.

Published in Dawn, Young World, August 19th, 2023