Keep things in perspective. This is just the beginning of the school year. Students are settling in, parents are adjusting, and teachers are working to break poor habits students have developed. All of these changes can present challenges, so do your best to be understanding, stay positive, and not dwell on minor setbacks.

This past Friday, I presented just off the coast in Oregon. I flew into Medford, where my sister lives, and she and my nephew accompanied me on the trip. I enjoyed my day with the staff immensely; however, the car ride to our destination the day prior took us on quite the adventure. The scenery was picturesque, the discussion was entertaining, and the twisting road trip for my nephew was nauseating. We had to stop several times so he could walk around and drink 7-Up. My sister said every time she takes this roller-coaster route, they initially question why they left the house in the first place. Of course, the end result was most definitely worth the trip. It was a great weekend.

Your trip will be worth it, as well. Each school year brings a new set of challenges and adventures. You just have to be careful not to get so caught up in the day-to-day drama that you lose sight of the big picture. Granted, at times you will be entertained, and at times you may feel nauseated. But at the end of the long and winding road called the school year, I’m thinking you will agree the trip was worth it after all.