For the first time in 8 years, I did not head into a shiny, organized classroom today with fresh labels, immaculate displays, and new stationery to prepare for the new school year. I would be lying if I said I wasn't a little heartbroken this morning.
There were definitely a few tears as it felt incredibly strange to know that many of my teacher friends were back in their classrooms today without me.
But I also had a great sense of relief. A sense of anticipation for new things and a sense that I have undoubtedly made the right decision for myself and my family.
Sending all teachers (and parents of school-aged children!) a whole lot of love and well wishes for this new academic year.
I am so glad we can all get back into a routine again.
This summer has been a very confusing hodge-podge as I've tried to enjoy my last "teacher summer holiday" at the same time as hustling my way into my business start-up (WHAT HAVE I DONE?).
The first day of September is a great day for goal setting and looking forward with hope for the next academic year. We can also look forward with anticipation to the season of fallen leaves, cosy fires, hot drinks and cardigans. Hello Autumn!
Instead of spending the first 1st of September focusing on the fact that I was NOT sorting out a classroom, I decided to celebrate what it really means to have a woman-owned small business:
I met a client in Leigh-On-Sea this morning and worked for an hour with them before attending a Network Meet at the rooftop bar in Revolution, Southend-on-Sea. I may have been one of the only creatives surrounded by suited and booted bankers, but I loved the opportunity to chat with a multitude of new people with completely different backgrounds and experiences.
What is the first thing you get asked for upon arriving at a network meeting? A business card of course! I can't believe I forgot mine. Thankfully, the organiser Paula (a fellow South African!) wasted no time in taking one of her own business cards, crossing out the details and adding my details before liberally throwing it into the ice bucket (of all things!) with all the other business cards.
Later, as we sat enjoying the free buffet lunch, Paula did a random draw out of the ice bucket, and guess whose slapdash business card came out? Everyone thought it was rigged but honestly, it wasn't. I won a magnificent bottle of Harrods Champagne. You would think it was the bubbliest item in the room, but I would argue it was me. I fizzed for the rest of the day.
Are you thinking about making a career change?
Consider transitioning from the classroom to becoming a small business owner like I did.
You'll have the freedom to work around other responsibilities, the option of remote work (or hybrid if you want a bit of socialising!), and the ability to choose clients who share your values while maintaining a work-life balance. It might seem daunting but it is so worth the leap.
If you're looking for guidance on social media management, content creation, or well-being in the business world, don't hesitate to reach out. I'm passionate about helping fellow educators and small business owners navigate this exciting journey.
As I reflect on this transition and this brand-new academic year, I'm setting new goals for myself.
One of those is the commitment to writing a blog post for the first of every month. It's a way for me to share my experiences, insights, and tips with you consistently.
I have just made it in the nick of time with one for today!
I can't wait to see what the rest of September has in store for me.
What are your goals for this new month?
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