Happy New Year! No, not that new year (obviously). I’m talking about other new years. It’s not all about the 31st December, you know.
Take the Chinese New Year, for example. According to the Lunar calendar, we’re currently midway through the year of the Rabbit. If you’re born in a rabbit year, typical traits include being a quiet thinker, preferring to reflect upon things by yourself before deciding upon the best course of action.
Next year is the year of the Dragon. Dragons are brave, feisty and prepared to stick their neck out for what they believe in. Perhaps not so glamorously, I was born in the year of the Rat. The Rats amongst us are, apparently, quick-thinking, creative and can adapt seamlessly to changes in routine.
There’s absolutely no scientific basis for any of this, of course (with all due respect). But that doesn’t mean it’s not true.
Teachers have an alternative to the New Year and Chinese New Year. They have something called the ‘Academic New Year’. To the uninitiated, it’s a momentous occasion; simultaneously the end and the beginning of something special. Like all beginnings and ends, it brings a considerable amount of excitement, trepidation and all the feelings that accompany the transition from what is to what might be.
An academic new year brings its own share of rituals and superstitions. New haircuts abound. New lanyards and marking pens are plentiful. New outfits soften the blow of returning to work; we strike deals with ourselves to overcome the residue of last year and prepare for what’s to come.
September will invariably bring with it fresh challenges. For you, it is the year of the Rabbit, the Dragon, the Rat and then some. You will need to be quietly reflective, brave, feisty, creative and adaptable. Which is why educators are a very special breed.
At your best, you are a different animal.
This year is therefore the year of You. It’s not going to be straightforward, and there will inevitably be some low points along the way. But one thing’s for sure: it won’t be dull; there’ll be some spectacular highs en route.
Hang on to your proverbial mortar board. Enjoy the ride.
Do what you’re good at. Do what you do. You know what works. You know.
Happy Knew Year.
You’ve got this.