Jo's Blog

Kia Ora Koutou to you all.

So, it’s a New Year, and this will either have you filled with positive feelings about what’s ahead or perhaps a bit of anxiety. This will all depend upon where things are at for you. If you have just come through year 8 and are heading into year 9, this could bring about some mixed emotions. Starting High School for the first time can be a really daunting experience. It can help if you have friends going to the same High School as you, as you will all be feeling a little nervous and will have each other to share these feelings with. Getting together before the big day to share with each other, over some yummy food, can be really helpful - particularly if you feel that you are the only one freaking out. Once you begin to share how you are feeling, you will be surprised at your friends’ responses. You might all be able arrange a meeting place/time to catch the bus, walk or bike together on that first day. This will also help to alleviate any undesirable feelings.

A New Year is all about new beginnings, which means new experiences. If last year wasn’t so hot for you, what is it that you would like to change about this year? I really want to encourage you to leave behind all the stuff that wasn’t working for you in 2011 and concentrate on all the great things you are going to fill your year with. If you are into sports, this will begin again for you, so go out there and give it heaps! If it’s Kapahaka that inspires you, get involved – it’s the Nationals in Whangarei this year, a time for you to celebrate and express who you are. If you have always been interested in Drama but you haven’t got involved, this is your year.

My shout out to you all is don’t sit around watching this year pass you by, go out there and live your dream. I know it can be a challenge as you have to rely on your parents to support you . The difficulties may be needing transport to get to practices etc and of course financial support, where needed. If your parents are struggling with this, is there an aunt, an uncle or grandparents that might be able to help? Reach out, if this sounds like you, you could be pleasantly surprised by their response.

Whatever you decide to do this year, make sure there is heaps of fun and laughter on your travels.

Take care all
Nga Mihi
Jo Te Paiho
 

And who is Jo?
Kia Ora all, my names Jo, I’m one of the Counsellors at Parentline Manawatu. I’m a mum of three, ages 8, 13 and 23 and I have three mokopuna, who are 1, 4 and 5yrs of age. I’ve been asked to write a bit of a blog to all the young people out there, so enjoy.
 

If there is something you’d like me to write about, just add your idea in the Comments box.