Just Because Everyone’s Buzzing Doesn’t Mean You Need to Be: A Back-to-School Guide to Doing Less (and Loving It)
There’s something in the air every August/September. The school supplies are fresh. The calendars are color-coded. The PTA is plotting their first bake sale with military precision. And suddenly, everyone around you is bursting with energy, ready to launch into a new season like it’s the Olympics of productivity. Meanwhile, you’re just trying to finish your coffee before it gets cold - I know I am!
If you’ve ever felt like the start of the school year demands a dramatic life overhaul - signing up for all the committees, all the volunteering, all the extracurriculars (and maybe starting a new hobby or group because, you know, new beginnings) - you’re not alone. This pressure to jump in, be involved, and "make the most of it" is real. But here’s the truth:
You don’t have to match everyone else’s buzz.
The Back-to-School Energy Trap
Whether or not you have school-age kids, this time of year carries a “new semester” vibe. It’s like January’s overachieving cousin - the one who’s already read five productivity books, color-coded their goals, and somehow has a functioning meal prep system. And while that energy can be exciting, it can also trick you into overcommitting before you’ve had a chance to ask: Do I even want to do this? Let alone trying to fit it into your already overcommitted calendar.
Raise your hand if you’ve ever said yes to something in September - like joining the school fundraiser committee or hosting a class parent brunch- only to regret it deeply by October.
It’s okay. We’ve all been there. And the good news? You can opt out.
You Don’t Have to Sign Up for Everything (Even If They Gave You a Cute Pen)
Let’s be clear: enthusiasm is contagious, but so is burnout. Just because the sign-up sheets are flying around faster than a rogue fidget spinner doesn’t mean you have to put your name on every dotted line.
Here’s my radical idea: Start your school year slow. Be intentional. Channel the wisdom of that one turtle in Finding Nemo. You’re not falling behind, you’re choosing to move with purpose.
Tips for Slowing Down and Staying Sane
1. Pause Before You Say Yes
Before you volunteer, RSVP, or buy supplies for a themed potluck, ask yourself: Do I want to do this? Not Should I? Or Will they think I’m helpful? But Do I genuinely want to and can I do it in a way that feels good for me? If the answer is “meh” or “not really,” that’s a no.
2. Write a “Do Less” List
Forget the to-do list. Try making a “Do Less” list. List out all the things you’re not doing this fall:
Not baking homemade muffins for every event
Not joining five Slack channels for five committees
Not saying yes to any activity that starts before 9 a.m. on a Saturday
This list is your boundary-setting best friend.
3. Tune In to How Things Feel
Notice how your body reacts when you think about a new commitment. Do you feel excited and energized? Or a tightness in your chest and a slight urge to hide behind the couch? Your body is wise. Pay attention.
4. Know That Disappointment Is Fleeting
Worried that someone might be disappointed if you don’t sign up or say yes? Guess what - they’ll survive, and the truth is, they’ll find someone else to do it. Disappointment is real but short-lived. Your well-being? That’s actually worth protecting. You don’t owe anyone burnout just to keep the peace.
5. Anchor to Your Values
Before the busyness takes over, get clear on what matters most to you this season. Maybe it’s quality time with your family, reclaiming your mornings, or actually enjoying the weekends. Maybe it’s something for you vs. something for everyone else in your life. Let that guide your decisions, not other people’s energy levels.
It’s Okay to Sit This One Out
Some seasons are for soaring. Others are for sipping tea slowly while everyone else sprints.
There’s no gold star for being the most booked-and-busy. And no one’s handing out medals for saying “yes” to the most things while simultaneously Googling “how to fake your own disappearance.”
So if you need a permission slip to skip the chaos and settle into a gentler pace, consider this it. You’re very welcome 🙂
Slow Is a Power Move
In a world where everyone’s rushing to the next thing, slowing down is radical. Saying “no” because it protects your peace is practically revolutionary. Protecting your time, your energy, and your joy isn't laziness, it’s leadership and honestly, great modeling for everyone around you.
The next time someone says, “You’re not doing the school carnival this year?!” feel free to smile and say, “Nope, I’ve committed to showing up as a well-rested, sane human this fall. It’s going really well actually and I can’t wait to enjoy the carnival as a participant!”
Final Thoughts: Your Year, Your Terms
The back-to-school buzz will fade. The group chats will quiet down. And those first-week-of-school energy bursts? They always fizzle out eventually. But if you start this season aligned with what you want - rather than what you think you’re supposed to do - you’ll head into fall with clarity, intention, and peace. And maybe a little energy to volunteer or commit to something you’re actually really into when the mood actually strikes!
So take a breath. Say no more often. Let yourself do less. And trust that you’re not falling behind, you’re just living on purpose.
Remember: the best kind of commitment is the one that feels good.
And if all else fails, just tell people you’re “fully booked” (with self-care). Nobody needs to know that means staying home in sweatpants watching The Summer I Turned Pretty and ignoring your inbox.
Just do you and you’re going to do great. Happy almost-fall.
As always, if I can be of service in any way, please don’t hesitate to contact me. I specialize in anxiety therapy, self-esteem therapy, relationship skills therapy, couples therapy, therapy for parents and therapy for big life changes for 1st & 2nd gen and BIPOC professionals in CA & TX. I’m also well-versed in working with neurodivergent clients - both individuals and couples.
SOMETHING NEW: If You Need a Different Kind of Support...
In addition to being a therapist, I’m also a career success and leadership coach for 1st & 2nd gen professionals. I support high-achieving professionals, many of whom are juggling caregiving, cultural expectations, and the desire to lead with confidence. Whether you’re navigating burnout, craving a career shift, or just looking for a space to be your full self without judgment - I’m here.
If this sounds like something you need or would like more information, email me: hello@minalnebhnanicoaching.com and we can hop on a call to see if we’re a good fit.