It’s that time where everyone is going back to school.

While all of you are trying to adjust your sleep schedule, and finish up your summer assignments, I just want to give you a few important reminders.

1. Don't get discouraged.

There is a lot of new energy at the beginning of school, and often you feel the drive to do everything, and to power through the school year with only your best effort. However, that energy can quickly fade, leaving you discouraged to restart it. Remind yourself that there will be highs and lows this year, and you can get through them all.

2. Organization is key

Because you’re starting the year with all the energy you saved over summer break, it is important that you get a head start on organizing your assignments and keeping track of what is due. If you start it now, and really commit, this organization will really help you in the long run, especially when the work starts piling up.

3. Get enough sleep.

Don't fall into the trap of sleep deprivation. So often we are tempted to stay up later, whether to finish a homework assignment, or to have extra time to ourselves that we can’t find during the day. Please, please try to get enough sleep. It is as beneficial to your health as what kind of foods you eat or how often you exercise, and lack of it can make learning that much more difficult, as well as controlling your moods. So treat sleep like a treat for your body instead of a nuisance.

4. And on that note, don't forget to take care of yourself.

No matter how difficult it gets, you are not a robot. Remember to take breaks, and to get some fresh air. Put the extra time in for yourself, because you deserve it, and because your mental health will always be more important.

5. Try and become friends with a teacher!

Some people say that being friends with a teacher is weird, but those people are missing out. Teachers are just like us, they have so many interests and passions, and they are often great teachers of life skills on top of teaching a school subject.

6. Try something new.

Whether you haven’t found your place yet, or you have completely found your niche, try something new. The beginning of the school year is that time where many new clubs and sports are gearing up, and you never know what you may love. Even if you hate it, the new experience will teach you something, as well as help you to stop living life as if your comfort zone was your first born child.

These are just a few things to help you start out the school year. I hope it's one of your best ones yet!