Your Back-to-School Survival Boost

By: Abigail Ellis

Published: August 9, 2025

Summer break flew by real fast, didn’t it? One minute you’re sleeping in, living in your favorite hoodie, and bingeing your favorite shows, and now, BAM. School’s starting again.

Some of you are hyped, ready to see your friends, show off your new fit, or just get back to a routine.Others? Not so much. Maybe you're dragging your feet because you're not a morning person. Maybe your anxiety is kicking in. Or maybe you're somewhere in between. excited and nervous at the same time.

Whatever you’re feeling right now… it’s valid. Seriously. There’s no "right" way to feel about going back to school. But no matter where you’re at, this new school year is a fresh start, and you've got this. Let's dive into a little encouragement—and some real-life tips to help make the transition smoother.

Real Talk: Back-to-School Looks Different for Everyone

Let’s acknowledge a few things real quick:

• You might be anxious about social stuff or schoolwork.

• You might not have your sleep schedule together (yet).

• You might be super ready to be around people again—but still nervous about the workload.

Guess what? You're not alone. Lots of students feel exactly how you feel. And with the right tools and mindset, you can totally navigate it like a boss.

3 Practical Tips to Start the School Year Strong (Even If You're Not Feeling 100%)

1. Create a Morning Routine That Works for You

Let’s face it: early mornings are not everyone’s thing. But instead of dreading them, try to make your mornings something you can actually look forward to (yes, really!).

Try this:

• Start by waking up just 15–30 minutes earlier a few days before school starts. Let your body adjust slowly.

• Build a “power-up playlist”, a few songs that get you in a good mood while you’re brushing your teeth or getting dressed.

• Lay out your clothes, pack your bag, and prep your breakfast the night before. Less stress = more chill in the morning.

Even small routines can help your brain feel more in control and less rushed when that alarm goes off.

2. Make an Anxiety Toolkit (for School & Life)

If you get anxious before school, whether it’s about grades, crowds, or just the unknown, having a game plan helps. An “anxiety toolkit” is just a set of tools that help you stay grounded.

Here’s what to put in yours:

• Deep breathing technique: Try “box breathing” (inhale 4 sec, hold 4 sec, exhale 4 sec, hold 4 sec).

• A calming playlist for walking to school or in between classes.

• Positive self-talk: Write down 3 reminders like “I can handle today,” “It’s okay to be nervous,” or “I’ve got this.”

• Go-to person: Know which adult or friend you can check in with if the day gets overwhelming.

Anxiety doesn’t mean you're weak. It just means your brain is doing the most—and you can help calm it down with the right strategies.

3. Set 1 Simple Goal for the First Week

It’s easy to feel overwhelmed thinking about the entire school year. Instead, zoom in. What’s one thing you want to accomplish in your first week?

Some ideas:

• Talk to at least one new person in your class

• Stay off your phone during one full class period (we know, it’s hard)

• Get to bed by a certain time

• Turn in every assignment on time for a full week

Starting with something small builds momentum. You’ll feel more confident and you’ll prove to yourself that you can follow through.

Your Encouragement

• 😴 To the student who still wants to sleep in: It’s okay. You’ll get your rhythm back. Give yourself grace and start small. You don’t have to have it all figured out on Day 1.

• 😟 To the student feeling anxious: You are strong. Braver than you think. You’ve made it through hard days before, and you can do it again. One breath, one step, one class at a time.

• 😄 To the student who can’t wait to be back: Bring that energy! Use it to support someone who might be struggling. Your excitement is contagious.

• 🫶 To everyone in between: This is your year to grow. Even if it’s messy. Even if it’s weird. You’re doing better than you think.

Back to school isn’t just about schedules and supplies, it’s a chance to reset, reconnect, and rediscover what you’re capable of. Whether you’re starting your first day of high school, middle school, or senior year, this is your time to show up as your real self, and take small steps toward the kind of life you want.

You don’t have to be perfect. You just have to keep showing up.And we’ll be here cheering you on every step of the way.

You've got this. We believe in you. Now go crush that first week.

Want help setting your first-week goal? Or need ideas for your morning routine? Let’s talk, We're here for you! 😊