The year is evaporating quickly! Before we know it we will be dealing with the inevitable craziness of the final weeks of the school year. End of year events, wrapping things up (figuratively and literally) and planning for 2027 all contribute to a hectic time for school leaders.

I find a mantra can be beneficial to keep me calm and focused when feeling under pressure. What will your mantra be for the rest of 2026?

Finish Strong
Saying or doing something dumb can wipe out all of the good work that you have done this year. Continue to be patient, calm and professional. Your staff, students and community will remember how you finished the year just as much as how you started it.

This Too Will Pass
At times that we are under pressure and running low on reserves, we can overstate small issues and see them as bigger than they need to be. Remind yourself that every difficult conversation, unexpected problem or stressful day is temporary. Keep things in perspective and avoid making permanent decisions based on temporary emotions.

Progress, Not Perfection
There will always be another email to answer, another problem to solve and another item on the to-do list. Accept that you won’t finish everything before the holidays. Focus on completing the most important work well rather than trying to make everything perfect.

Be Present
The end of the year is full of celebrations, graduations, awards and farewells. Resist the temptation to spend every event thinking about what needs to happen next. Take time to genuinely enjoy these moments with your students and staff. These occasions are often the highlights that people remember for years to come.

Fill Buckets, Not Just Diaries
As leaders, it’s easy to spend every day managing calendars, meetings and deadlines. Make a conscious effort to also fill people’s buckets. Thank a teacher who has gone the extra mile. Acknowledge the office staff who keep everything running. Celebrate small wins and recognise effort. A few sincere words of appreciation can have a lasting impact and help everyone finish the year feeling valued.

The final weeks of the year don’t have to be about simply surviving. Choose a mantra that helps you stay grounded, focused and positive. It may be exactly what you need to finish 2026 well and begin 2027 with energy and optimism.