Teen Breathe Magazine

Have you ever noticed how time moves so slowly at the start of the summer holidays, but as September draws closer, it suddenly speeds up? Before you know it, it’s time to go back to school. Hopefully you’re excited to be with friends and get back into the academic rhythm. But you may also be feeling a bit nervous. Perhaps it’s a big year for exam prep, or you’re starting a whole new school. Whatever this year has in store, it will no doubt include lots of ups, plenty of smiles and a few downs along the way. That’s all part of life, not just school.

When things don’t go 100% to plan, how you react can make a big difference. Are you quick to brush off setbacks and focus on the things that went well? Or do you find yourself dwelling on the negatives? Take a PE class, for example. If you fumble a catch in netball, does it stick in your mind for the rest of the day, or are you also able to remember the ways you helped your team during the match, or the other sports you enjoy?

No one’s saying you should think positive thoughts all the time. But if you often find yourself zooming in on the negatives, even when other things are going okay, there are ways to flip the script. Training your brain to seek out the positives can help you find balance – and navigate the normal ups and downs of
a school year more easily.