In an effort to “create a home”, I worked to fill my empty space. Before I knew it, my new place was full of throw pillows, wall art, knick knacks, furniture, and kitchen appliances I never knew I “needed”. I blame TJ Maxx. I was more stressed and overwhelmed than ever before. So, I decided to declutter my life.

Considering going back to school? Yeah, me too. Scared? Yeah, me too. It’s been a hot minute since I was in school, and even in that short time I feel like everything I thought I knew has changed. My life has taken unexpected turns, the economy is completely different, and now you don’t even have to go to class in order to go to class. I have a full-time job and I enjoy it, but I feel like the right educational credentials could propel me into actually feeling fulfilled (and rich).

I’d like to say that things got better after 7th grade, but that’s totally a lie. Back to school brings a mountain of stress for both kids and parents every year. From kindergarten through college, every year presents new and different challenges. From the one who made all the mistakes and then some, I put together a comprehensive list of unique tips for any age.

I think my love of back to school season comes from feeling like my mother just loved us more when we were in school. Summertime was chaos and craziness, but school time brought structure and routine, which my mother craved. Who wouldn’t blame her though? An 8-hour break from our madness probably seemed like a vacation to the Bahamas.