Back to School?
Cast your mind back to when you were a child… Do you remember that feeling at the start of September and a new school year? Brand new stationery, the excitement of a new school bag, the crisp pages of untouched exercise books, and even the novelty of shiny new school shoes! Whether or not you have children, most of us can still tap into that "new school year" energy. It feels like a clean slate, one that is perfect for giving your body and health goals a boost.
Just as school gave us a structure, routine, and fresh supplies, you can bring the same energy into your health; only this time you’re in charge! And if you’ve got an ADHD brain, novelty, variety, and visual cues can make all the difference in keeping you motivated. Here’s how you can harness that September reset feeling:
1. Upgrade Your Toolkit
Think of getting “new stationery” for your body goals. This might mean:
New workout gear – leggings, trainers, or even a fun water bottle that makes you want to use it.
A fresh supplement organiser – something bright and easy to use so you don’t forget to take them.
Kitchen gadgets – like a new blender cup, storage jars, or even a colourful chopping board that makes meal prep more fun.
2. Create a Fresh Timetable
Back-to-school always came with a timetable you’d pin-up somewhere. Do the same for yourself:
Plan out your workouts and movement breaks.
Block out time for food prep or grocery shopping.
Use visual reminders—sticky notes, fridge whiteboards, or apps that send alerts.
ADHD tip: keep your “timetable” flexible. Instead of overloading your schedule, slot in just 2–3 priorities a week and celebrate ticking them off.
3. Experiment With New Recipes
Remember opening a new lunchbox? That sense of discovery can apply now.
Try a new recipe every week to keep things fresh.
Rotate your breakfast options to prevent food fatigue.
Make a “recipe jar” where you write down meal ideas on slips of paper and pick one at random when you’re stuck.
Novelty is dopamine-friendly, so lean into it.
4. Refresh Your Environment
Classrooms felt exciting when they were decorated for a new term. Do the same at home:
Tidy your kitchen surfaces so healthy cooking feels easier.
Make your fridge and cupboards visually appealing with clear, labelled containers, and healtthy choices at eye level.
Create a mini “wellness corner” with a yoga mat and props, dumbbells, or even a candle for winding down.
5. Get Accountability Buddies
Think of this like your “project or study group.”
Find a friend who also wants to focus on health this autumn and share weekly wins.
Join an online community or challenge.
If you thrive on external accountability, book classes or PT sessions you can’t easily skip.
7. Celebrate Small Wins
Remember getting a gold star or a smiley sticker at school? Some of my PT clients still love these! Why not your own reward system?
Track habits with stickers, beads in a jar, or apps that give visual progress.
Treat yourself to something non-food related (like a book, candle, or self-care moment) when you’ve hit a milestone.
September doesn’t need to be about “back to school” pressure. It can be about bringing in fresh-start energy. Tap into novelty, create supportive structures, and add playfulness to your health goals. You don’t need perfection; you need momentum.
Why not give yourself your own ‘new term’? Pick one new thing to try this week, whether it’s a recipe, a piece of kit, or a fresh routine. And if you’d love some extra accountability and support with this September reset, get in touch for a You By Anthea reset. I’d love to help you build your own health timetable!