Back To School
Lessons from my cool headed teen
And just like that, it’s back to school.
This morning, my 13 year son headed off into Year 9 with a huge grin on his face and I couldn’t help but marvel at his cool headedness. He’s taking on the new year with a sense of curiosity and enthusiasm which is both inspiring and humbling.
It got me thinking of my ‘back to school’ experiences. I remember feeling a big bag of nerves, anxiously worrying about making new friends, if old friends would still want to hang out and wondering if I’d be smart enough to manage the latest maths homework. What a bundle of unnecessary worries to have on young shoulders.
When did my inner imposter arrive, and when will it ever leave?!
It’s a question I have been mulling over quite a bit this week. Thinking that at 49, I still carry self doubt and a few insecurities from my childhood years. It seems ridiculous, as I throughly enjoyed my school years. I guess the difference now is that I now know I can reshape my self-perception and reframe the narrative.
Just before Sonny jumped out of the car to meet his friends, I asked him, was he nervous about going to school today and he said “No, not really”. However, he did say there are times when he get nervous, but he makes sure he doesn’t show it. Bless his heart.
As we said our goodbyes, I left him with a sense of pride and hope as I know he will navigate his teenage years with confidence. That moment served as a reminder that the journey to self-assuredness is ongoing. It’s about embracing our unique path, appreciating our worth and learning to let go of that ‘nagging’ imposter syndrome.
Today, I’m going to take a cue from my son’s playbook.
I’m going to remain curious, with the knowledge that it’s ok to not have it all figured out. After all life is a rollercoaster, no matter what age.
Until the next time
Take care & stay safe xxx
Beautiful 😍
Sonny's confidence and curiosity is a credit to you Tanya 💖
And it's funny how we all have these trailing insecurities and bouts of self-doubt, but I think recognising them is a major turning point - and I hope that 'imposter' soon leaves you, they're not needed x
I have to constantly remind myself that’s it’s ok not to have everything figured out, but it’s so hard to not think that!
Hope your son had a good first day back! It’s my first day of actually teaching classes in my new school today and I’m a little nervous about meeting them! But I keep telling myself that I only have to do today and then I’m not back again until Monday because my new job is part time. It’s a nice feeling. Tomorrow I will be back to my freelance work of interior design and writing!
I just saw Emma Gannon’s post and I’ve emailed immediately as I would love to take part, and unlike last academic year when I would have been teaching on a Friday, I’m available now! 🙌🏻
Hope your Thursday turns out to be exciting because everything isn’t completely figured out!
Hannah x