Three ways I’m managing the back-to-school hustle

Summer is fading, and the familiar rush of the back-to-school season has begun. It's that time again—when the to-do list seems endless: figuring out complex schedules, selecting the right courses and making sure the kids are staying on track. And let’s not forget about the emotional prep—both for the students, who might be a little nervous about returning to school, and for us parents, who are gearing up for another year of juggling work, school and extracurricular schedules—and not to mention everything in between.?

But this back-to-school season feels a bit different in our household. Alongside the usual hustle, we're preparing to send our oldest son, Thomas, off to college. It's bittersweet as boxes are filled with dorm essentials, clothes and little pieces of home that Thomas will take with him as he begins this new chapter miles away. We're not just getting ready for another school year, we're getting ready to let go just a little bit more. It reminded me of the evolving role we have as parents. As our children grow, their needs shift and our roles as parents shift alongside that. Here’s how I’m managing the back-to-school hustle and adapting to my evolving role as a mom.??

1. Making work-life choices?

The back-to-school rush is a time when the demands of work and home can feel even more prominent, testing parents’ ability to make conscious work-life choices. This time of the year can be a challenge to prioritize; it’s hard to make sure that all stakeholders—family, clients, colleagues and yourself—are supported. For me, it’s not about achieving perfect work-life balance, which can be elusive, but about making deliberate choices that align with our values and long-term goals. By being present for the moments that matter, both at home and at work, we can better navigate these busy times.?

2. Tapping into the power of community?

It’s easy to think of work and life as separate, but the reality is much more intertwined. My colleagues aren’t just people I share office space with; they are a support system that extends beyond the physical office. We share tips, offer each other encouragement and even collaborate on solutions for managing the ever-changing demands of our busy schedules. This network has been invaluable—especially during the back-to-school season, when juggling work and preparing for the new school year can feel overwhelming. Rather than viewing work and life as opposing forces, I see them as complementary parts of a whole, where the skills and support from one can enhance and uplift the other. Whether it has been mentors at work or family and friends at home, my community has played an important role in helping me through busy seasons of life.??

3. Embracing transitions?

As we send Thomas off to college, I’m reminded of the importance of embracing transition—and the excitement that comes along with it! Whether it's a new project at work, a role change or a significant life event like a child leaving home, these moments are opportunities full of potential. When we embrace transitions with enthusiasm and a sense of discovery, we can be fully present to new possibilities. Just as I am encouraging my son Thomas to embrace this new chapter with an open heart and mind, I also find myself inspired to approach my own transitions with a similar optimism.?

This time of the year has always been a blend of the familiar and the new, but this year, that mix is even more pronounced. The energy of a fresh start is in the air, coupled with the emotional weight of a significant family milestone. It’s chaotic, yes, but it’s also a moment to cherish—a time to embrace the changes and look forward to the possibilities ahead.?