One Mindset Shift I’m Carrying Into This School Year

As summer winds down and back-to-school season begins, I’ve been reflecting on how much our mindset shapes the tone of our days.

Not just what we do, but how we think and talk to ourselves in the middle of it all.

Because the reality is, this season can feel like a lot.

There’s the logistical load:
School supplies, new schedules, forgotten forms.

And the emotional one:
Wanting to do it all “right,” savoring the last bits of summer, preparing for what’s next — and doing it all while holding space for everyone else.

It’s easy to fall into the trap of thinking:

“I should be more patient.”
“I should be doing more.”
“Why can’t I hold it all together?”

I’ve had those thoughts too.

There were a few school mornings last year that were particularly hard.
We were running behind. I was rushing. Someone needed help last minute.
And I snapped. I didn’t respond the way I wanted to.

Afterward, that inner critic voice kicked in loud and fast.
But as I reflected on those mornings, I realized something: I wouldn’t talk to a friend that way.

I wouldn’t shame them.
I wouldn’t say they failed.

I’d say: “That was a hard morning. You’re doing your best. And you get to try again.”

That tiny shift didn’t erase the stress — but it helped me reset.
It helped me move forward with more self-compassion and less guilt.

That’s what mindset work is really about:

• Not toxic positivity.

• Not pretending it’s all fine.

• But choosing a voice inside your head that speaks to you like someone who matters.

Here’s a tool I’ve been using lately when that inner critic flares up:

The Evidence Check

• Notice the judgmental thought

• Ask: “What actual evidence do I have for this?”

• Name one truth that challenges it
  

Example:
“I’m failing as a mom.”
→ “Actually… my child came to me when they were upset yesterday. That means they feel safe with me.”

This small pause can shift how you move through the rest of your day.
And over time, it changes how you move through your life.

This Fall, Let It Be a Little Softer

You don’t have to set yourself on fire to keep everyone else warm.

You can care deeply… and still have limits.
You can show up… and still need rest.
You can let this season be human — not perfect.

That’s what I help clients do in 1:1 coaching:

• Release unrealistic expectations

• Build habits that support instead of shame

• Shift mindset in ways that actually change how life feels
  

If that’s something you want more of this fall, I’d love to support you. I have a few coaching spots open this month. Click this link to schedule a complimentary Discovery visit.

Happy back-to-school! 

Ashley M Ghose Coaching: Guiding Busy, Working Moms to Clarity, Purpose, and Calm