Back to School, Back to Routine

Ah, the back-to-school season. For many working parents, this time of year brings a sense of relief and a chance to settle back into a routine. After the long days of summer when your kids are running around the house, asking for things, needing rides in the middle of your workday…getting back to a structured schedule can be invigorating. I’ve always believed that routine is a powerful tool, not just for kids but for adults too. As the kids pack their backpacks with freshly sharpened pencils and crisp notebooks, it’s the perfect opportunity for us, as working parents and professionals, to reset, refocus, and recharge our own routines.

Embracing Routine and Organization

For many of us, back-to-school season signals a return to discipline and organization. It's a time to set new goals and create a schedule we can rely on. Whether it’s setting the alarm clock earlier or scheduling regular family dinners, these routines bring a sense of stability and predictability to our lives.

In business, having a routine is just as important. A predictable schedule allows us to plan effectively, prioritize tasks, and create space for innovation and creativity. Embracing this mindset in our professional lives can lead to increased productivity and a renewed sense of purpose.

A Mindset of Renewal and Focus

Back-to-school is more than just a return to routine; it’s a chance to reset our mindset. Just as our children (and spouses, if they are teachers) are preparing to embark on a new academic journey, we can use this time to refresh our own focus and start anew. It's an opportunity to ask ourselves, "What do I want to achieve in the coming months? What goals can I set that align with my passions and purpose?"

For me, the start of the school year is a reminder to embrace a mindset of growth and opportunity. It’s a chance to reflect on what’s working, what’s not, and what changes can be made to ensure I’m moving in the right direction.

A Commitment to Lifelong Learning

As our kids dive into new subjects and explore new ideas, we should be inspired to do the same. Learning doesn’t stop after our K-8 or post-primary school, and it certainly doesn’t stop when we enter the workforce. As adults, we have the incredible opportunity to model a love for learning!

I’m excited to share a picture of the books on my reading list this fall. It’s a mix of business strategies and personal development to spark creativity. Continued education is a cornerstone of personal and professional growth, and I’m committed to keeping my mind sharp and open to new ideas. (In the last month I’ve already finished Unreasonable Hospitality – and I highly recommend it!)

Sharpening Our Tools

Just as our children use tools like pencils and calculators to excel in their studies, we, too, must ensure we have the right tools to succeed in our endeavors. This means staying up-to-date with the latest technology, harnessing the power of AI, and continually innovating in our fields.

Innovation is not a one-time event; it’s a continuous process of sharpening our skills and finding new ways to solve problems. Whether it’s implementing a new project management system or exploring cutting-edge technologies, these tools help us stay competitive and adaptable in an ever-changing world.

So…Let’s Embrace the Season

As we send our kids (and spouses) off to school, let’s seize this moment to embrace the back-to-school season as a time of renewal and growth. It’s an invitation to reset our routines, refocus our energies, and recommit to lifelong learning. Just as our children are embarking on new adventures, we have the chance to do the same. So, here’s to new beginnings, fresh starts, and the promise of a productive and fulfilling season ahead!