How to Hack BTS When You Don't Work in the Classroom

I remember the feeling of back to school and how exciting it was. Sure, it was the end of freedom and summer, but it was also the start of new beginnings and hopeful journeys. Each year I would think about how amazing that school year would be: all the friends I would make, all the classes I would master, and all the memories that I would cherish.

You can use that same mentality no matter where you are. Whether you are in the classroom, office, hospital, or field. It's a second chance at change (kinda like your New Year's promises). Make the most of it!

Organize, Organize, Organize

I'm sure you've noticed all the Instagram and Facebook images of the pristine, organized classrooms teachers are designing for back to school. Now it's your turn. This is the perfect time to employ some of those organization strategies you've been meaning to try out. Be it color-coding schedules, setting up a new filing system, or creating a family command center for your home, this is your time to shine. Check out some inspiration below:

Decorate

In the same vein as the tip above, decorate your space to promote change and new beginnings! You don't need to go all Pinterested out because that's not always feasible, but adding just a little flare to you environment can do wonders! I will be adding new pillows to my couches, decorating my office with some new photos, and painting the walls in my bathroom and living room.

Rethink Your Morning Routine

This it he perfect time to revamp that morning routine. In the classroom, this often means helping students learn the expectations and order in which their morning routine is to run. Consistency is key. In the house it may be making sure you are gathering all the things you need for your day ahead (nothing like forgetting lunch on the counter) and making sure you are doing everything you need to ensure you're caring for yourself! Think about the things you want to get done in the morning and make a plan to routinize it!

>>> Check out these posts for more morning routine ideas: Fitting in Exercise, 5 Fave Oatmeal Recipes, Post-Workout Snacks

Embrace Your Creativity

Back to school brings to mind creativity - this is the time where students are learning new skills and discovering new passions. Remember when you chose your instrument for the school year, or new electives in your courses, and it opened up a world of possibilities for you? This is a great time to focus on enhancing your creativity too. Get inspired by all the back to school madness and get creative! Consider breaking out that sketch book again, joining a team sport, or signing up for a cooking class. Get your creative juices flowing like a kid again!

Go BTS Shopping!

This was always my favorite thing about BTS as a kid. As an adult, we can take advantage BTS shopping too! Get some new work clothes and work supplies. Focus on clothing styles that are timeless and high-quality. Get some new stationary that makes you smile. Find some new accessories that showcase how fun you really are (no matter your age). 

Create Goals

...or re-look at your current goals. Teachers do this at the beginning of the school year to determine goals for their classroom and students, and set benchmarks throughout the year to measure their progress. They look at the class as a while as well as individual student goals. Students may also set their own goals. Now it's your turn. Your goals may be work goals, family goals, relationship goals, personal goals, or financial goals. Don't forget to set up systems and keep track of your progress!

>>> Check out these posts for more goal setting ideas: What Do You Want To Be When You Grow Up, Willpower and Skillpower

Hack Your Productivity

This is a great time to focus on getting in a routine that works for you. I know you've been working all year, but this is the perfect time to take a good, hard look at your productivity level and see what you can improve. Just like kids going back to school after a long hiatus, you'll be focusing on increasing your work stamina too.

>>>Check out this post on executive functioning for some tips for on how to strengthen your organization skills!

ABA at Play: antecedent manipulations, environmental accommodations, prompting,  evidence-based practices, socially significant behavior, individualized supports, reinforcement procedures, automatically-maintained behavior, escape-maintained behavior, behavior change procedures

As an adult, we don't have to sit back and watch the kids have all the fun! It's our time to enjoy this glorious mid-year rejuvenation too! How do you hack BTS for yourself?

You might also enjoy: Organizing All Those Digital Products, Staying Refreshed for B2S, Staying Sane Through BTS, Goal Setting for Adults