IT IS FINISHED!…well, almost. The spring semester is done, and today is my last first day of school. Praise! Someone take my picture and put it in a frame next to my first day of pre-school picture. Yes, the one with the blue jean hat to match my blue jean outfit. Thank you, ’90s. Anyway, as a celebration for being almost done I wanted to write a post on some things I learned this year. (Actual celebration to occur in real life with real people and real drinks to occur at a later date. This will have to do for now.)
- I found the right profession for me.
Though I had my share of doubts some days I truly believe school psychology is a perfect fit for my passions and my personality. Organized and detail-oriented? Check! Passionate about kiddos and education? Check! Problem-solver and solution-finder? Check! I love it–most of it.
This year I started on practicum where I got to work in the schools with kiddos first-hand. They’re so fun and fabulous, and I never went home without a story, good or bad. I also got to consult with teachers, which I enjoyed more than I anticipated.
- Many things require effort; few things require stress.
My husband always says that I stress too much, and until a few years ago I just thought that was part of my personality. I thought that a “healthy level” of stress was required to get stuff done. This year it really hit me that my high stress levels affect those around me, so I tried to tone it down a bit. (Tried being the key word…) Come to find out, you can get things done without stressing 24-7 over them! Imagine that! I used the 4 A’s of stress relief to help!
- I need positive affirmation daily.
I will doubt myself until the grades come in, especially if I’m not getting regular feedback along the way. This year I especially learned that I either need to give myself positive affirmation or ask for feedback. It also helps to communicate regularly with supervisors and call your mom every once in a while just so she can tell you how fabulous you are.
- It’s never too late…
For all the things I’ve learned and all the successes I’ve experienced this year, there have also been times where I wish I had done things differently. Well, it’s never to late to brush yourself off and try again. (You can dust it off and try again, try again. Sorry, excuse me while I channel the ’90s and Aaliyah.)
I seem to be good at the vague posts lately, so I guess I’ll just leave this one here as is. Happy first last day of class to all of you in the same boat!
a thousand new paths 