Set aside some time for yourself this summer, as it is impossible to do anything unless you are taken care of

Good morning. I’m just going to say a few words on behalf of the Senior Prefect team.

We are living in a world where young people have more opportunities than ever, in areas from learning, where 49% of young people in the UK are now progressing to higher education, to political activism, where the recent March for our Lives movement brought the subject of America’s gun laws even further into the public eye. The breadth of these opportunities is unbelievable; but it can get overwhelming. I recently read a book by a woman called Sarah Knight, in which she rightly asserted that saying ‘yes’ to everything makes your life feel like it’s not your own, and you forget to ensure that your own needs are taken care of, leading to a downward spiral in productivity and happiness. Knight teaches the reader how to not only prioritise their commitments, but also how to turn down opportunities without being rude to the person offering them. Be productive, but be reasonable. Be kind, but when it comes to looking after yourself, be a little bit selfish. When we get back in September there’ll be a whole new year waiting for us, more jam-packed and exciting than ever, and it’s important to be ready for this, because it would be such a shame to come back from the summer tired instead of refreshed, and therefore unable to take advantage of any of the incredible opportunities our school gives us. So, make sure to set aside some time for yourself this summer, as it is impossible to do anything unless you are taken care of. Once again, congratulations to everyone for another fantastic year, and make sure to enjoy your well-deserved holiday. Thank you.

Emma Starbuck
Reigate Grammar School Sixth Form