This archive report was first published on 7 September 2019.
Published on September 7, 2019, the start of a new academic year often signals a fresh start for many of us. Whether it's a new school year, a new career, or a new chapter in life, this time of year can be a powerful catalyst for change.
For some, this means taking bold steps towards a new goal. A friend of mine, for example, has decided to start classes at the same time as her elementary-schoolers, marking the first step in her plan to earn a master's degree and change careers. Another friend is finally starting therapy, committed to figuring out whether it's time to end a relationship that's no longer working for her.
As we navigate our own paths towards growth and change, it's essential to remember that experimentation is a crucial part of the process. We don't have to be afraid to try new things, even if they don't work out. In fact, it's often the things we try and then drop that teach us the most about ourselves.
As a parent, I've seen my kids reinvent themselves every school year, trying out new interests and hobbies. Yet, as I look back on my own life, I realize that I've often coasted by in the same phase for years, neglecting my own personal growth. Supporting my children as they grow and evolve takes time and energy, but it's also a reminder that I'm still becoming someone, too.
Recently, I attended a local function for alumni and current students of my alma mater, where I was inspired by a student's passion for designing her own major. This sparked a realization in me: I want to design my own curriculum, too. In the coming year, I plan to write my own syllabus, read books I might normally overlook, and seek out new experiences and perspectives. It's time for me to grow – and not just in shoe size.
