We wish you a Merry Christmas and a Happy New… Fear?
Mariah officially called it weeks ago, and the excitement for Christmas Day is palpable. But New Year is a whole different bauble game. No sooner have we fished out all of the good Quality Street (hands down, it’s the green triangle) when Big Ben chimes its signal for us to get back to it.
Already dreading it? You’re not alone!
Christmas isn’t everyone’s cup of mulled wine, but I, for one, love it. Particularly the build-up
(own up, who put their tree up in November?).
One of the best things about working with young people is the anticipation from all their little faces. Even those fickle teens seem to show a glimpse of mild merriment. From festive performances to winter artwork and swapping holiday cards. And it’s not only the children - I’m sure you’ve all participated in staffroom talks about which Christmas advert made you cry, how big your turkey will be this year, and, of course, the staff Christmas party!
There is something contagiously joyous about this half-term that is hard to resist…It’s the next one that often fills people with dread.
The January dread
You see, I have to admit that whilst we’re reaching the end of term, I myself, and perhaps a large percentage of you, are guilty of looking ahead to (perhaps even dreading) January. The time when slogans such as “New Year, new me!” and the peer pressure of “Dry January” circulate on social media.
To some, the end of the year often feels like you’ve reached the summit of the mountain (finally!), and then New Year rolls around, and it can often feel like the start of a new one you need to climb. (Here we go again…)
So, how can we FLIP our thinking, enabling us to enjoy our break and feel ready for a brand new year?
Here are some ideas to help you:
- Do not leave anything behind! If you have something that needs doing, try not to put it off until the new year. Get that to-do list ticked off before you hit the standby button, preventing the dreaded middle-of-the-night wake-up work panic.
- New Year, New You? If a list of resolutions is your thing (as they are my husband’s), let’s make it realistic. If you’re unlikely to do that bucket list trip to Vegas, don’t write it down! Smaller goals, such as trying a new food, which are more achievable, will bring you just as much joy - I promise.
- Break your patterns! Often, we feel a certain way about a certain time of year because of our experience and memories of previous years. But you have the control to change it by breaking any patterns of behaviour you feel yourself slipping into. For example, if you’re an alarm snoozer (guilty), challenge yourself to get up and out of bed on the first alarm, giving yourself more time to enjoy that morning cup of caffeine or a longer shower. Think of what your winter habits are and consider breaking them!
January doesn’t need to become your favourite month, but you may find some new things about it that you like and, who knows, eventually look forward to!
So raise your glasses, mugs or water bottles for getting to the end of another year! It’s not always easy - it’s not supposed to be, but I assure you, you can still find joy.
If you’d like some support in your school to help ‘FLIP’ your team’s thinking, get in touch, and we’ll be happy to help. Just email This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it.
Alison Carter has worked with young people since graduating from drama school twelve years ago. Her performing arts background means she’s no stranger to acting like a clown to get the giggles going! She’s no stranger to the classroom environment, either, and has worked with students, parents and teachers in many primary schools.
