Primary School Reflections

Happy Friday!

Gosh, I've missed these two this week. They headed off on their PGL residential on Monday morning and are back late this afternoon. It’s the longest they have ever been apart from us and whilst our home is more tidier, calmer, quieter and more organised I have missed them so much. I miss the crazy mornings, the packed afternoons after school, getting them to clubs and the dinner times. I miss their chatter, their laughter and their hugs.  This week has given me a lot more time than usual and it’s been really lovely to spend quality 121 time with our eldest daughter. 

I've done a lot of thinking and reflection this week; I hope the following helps in some way (whether or not you have children approaching the end of Primary). 

⭐️People say so often ‘time flies’ but it really does. I started Arch inspire when the twins were 22 months old, they have recently turned 11 – it’s so important to make the most of life in the moment where you can – none of us know what lies around the corner.  Making memories and experiences is key for us as a family - time really does go by in the blink of an eye.

⭐️Balancing your personal and professional ‘wants’ is so important.  One of my key success measures when I started Arch inspire was to regain balance and control.  Whilst I loved my corporate career, at times it put a real strain on us as a family and when Amy was younger I really didn’t prioritise what was most important. I also got this really wrong at points when the twins were young.  The early years of establishing the business were tough and like any business I still experience the inevitable ups and downs and challenges, however I've created a business which enables me to do what I love to do and what I am good at alongside being a present mother – this for me is a big achievement. 

⭐️Space and time to think is so important – this week I've realised that I have not done this enough recently. Creating space to think helps you to reflect on all you have, all you have done and all you still want to do. It also helps you to be creative, come up with new ideas and solutions. Simply sitting and being is hugely beneficial. I encourage clients to create thinking slots in their diary – it’s been a reminder for me to do more of this myself!

⭐️Being grateful for all you have keeps you grounded and helps you to focus on the positives. I'm going to work extra hard once the boys are back to not moan so much about the mess, the chaos and the craziness of the school week. I've realised this week that I really do miss it all. 

If you have children fast approaching the end of their Primary years, I'm thinking of you and the emotions that inevitably come with this (excitement, happiness, apprehension, curiosity, fear and the unknown of what’s next for them in education and in life).  For now pat yourself on the back – you’ve got them this far. 

Have a great sunny weekend ahead!