Be encouraged. The first month of the school year is complete. You did it. Your children did it. I remember the energy and excitement (and sometimes the apprehension) that filled our hearts and minds as each new school year began. “Starting strong”. What does that mean anyway? Most likely, it means something different for each of us:
From following a strict routine to creating a relaxed atmosphere
From maintaining checklists to keep us on task to going with the flow as much as
possible
From focusing on academics to focusing on socialization
From loving what we’re doing to pulling our hair out in frustration
Chances are we have all experienced each sway of the pendulum at some time . . . perhaps even within a 24 hour period! So what does starting strong mean?
Perhaps it means intentionally choosing our perspective:
The big picture vs. a single day (whether terrific or terrible)
Character vs. accomplishments
Finding joy vs. allowing criticism
Speaking life vs. nagging and complaining
“The big picture”, “character”, “finding joy”, “speaking life”. You get the idea. If you got off track with what it means to “start strong”, perhaps you are encouraged to rethink what it means for you and your family. Trust your heart, and make some adjustments if you need to. It’s not too late to “start strong”.