Brittany Hoggard’s Post

※POV Summer is almost over. While working from home, that means no more random peek-ins throughout the day (or in the middle of a video call) from one of my three girls to blow me a kiss, or give me a hug, or to pat my head and tell me "You're extra weird but extra special." No more lunchtime quick games of Exploding Kittens or Guess Who. The end of summer also means that with my 16-year-old I'll only have 3 more summers and then she'll be off to college. With my middle kiddo, only 6 more summers. And with the youngest, only 9 more summers. My career is rewarding on many levels. I enjoy the constant challenges and being able to expand my knowledge on many key issues that impact my clients. But nothing beats time at home with the family. And so the purpose of this post is to reflect on life--to reflect on the changes that the end of summer brings--and a reminder to be present. My takeaway: Don't get too caught up in how exhausting (and expensive) summer can be for you as a parent. Think about the things you did during the summer that you'll miss when your kids are gone to college or off on their careers. Reflection. (But then again, the end of summer means college football is just a few weeks away! Go Horns!) #reflection #wfh #career

How fast time flies! It feels like just yesterday when we first walked into the college, full of anticipation. Yet today, we’ve completed the 1st trimester of our PGDM journey, and tomorrow we embark on the 2nd trimester. Is it too early for nostalgia to hit? Perhaps. Someone once said, “Management teaches you everything but management.” It’s true—it teaches you about life. In the classroom, emotions run high. Some are anxious about summer placements, others about grades. But in the grand scheme of things, these concerns will fade. Once summer placements begin, we’ll see how random selections by recruiters reveal that some of these worries may have been misplaced. At times, it feels more like a race than a journey. But amidst the hustle, who’s thinking about emotional well-being? What about those who may be falling behind, who just need that extra push to realize their potential? And what about real learning—can it be measured on a spreadsheet? There are a lot of questions, and maybe they don’t all need answers. But it’s food for thought as we move forward. Think about it.

With the upcoming summer holiday, do you want your child to have a relaxing but at the same time productive break? Do you want them to strengthen their work ethic, motivation and academic pursuits in preparation for the next year? Please read my blog to find top tips on how to help students organise and manage their summer https://lnkd.in/eKVc3js8

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Summer is almost over and it just occurred to me that there are no more breaks. The rhythm of life has changed and the realization that there are no more built-in breaks has hit me harder than expected. Without the familiar cycle of semesters and vacations, its been a learning curve getting adjusted to the way of young adulthood. On graduation day, I stood there in my cap and gown attire surrounded by proud faces and flashing cameras. I thought that moment marked the end of something, but in reality, it was the beginning of everything. As the excitement faded, the question "What now?" became louder and more persistent. The first week after graduation, I woke up on a Tuesday morning expecting to feel different but everything was the same... except there was no classes to attend and no more homework to turn in before 11:59pm. It was just me, a blank calendar and the weight of time sitting in the room. The framework I had followed my entire academic life had vanished... In the weeks that followed, I found myself grappling with questions I hadn't anticipated: What does a fulfilling day look like now? How do I stay motivated without professors giving deadlines? How do I set my own goals and create new routines in my career? Some days feel productive, while others feel uncertain, but hey, that's just part of the process right? I'm discovering that this phase isn't about finding a job or starting a career immediately; It's about taking time to understand my responsibilities, figure out how I want to spend my time and explore new interests or get back into old ones. The blank calendar is slowly filling up, not with classes or assignments but with opportunities to grow, both personally and professionally. This new chapter is still being written, and while the path is not as clear as it once was, as the author of this story, I am still learning to embrace the uncertainty and find value in the journey itself. I feel like a bird that has just left the nest. I know how to flap my wings, but I’m still figuring out which direction to fly.

As we enter the 3rd year of college, let's remember to be kind to ourselves. This year will bring new challenges and opportunities, and it's normal to feel a bit overwhelmed. Let’s find a balance between our studies and moments of relaxation and fun. Celebrate every achievement, no matter how small, and cherish the time spent with friends and new experiences. Believe in ourselves and take things one step at a time. We’re doing great! 💫✨ Let's Learn simple guide on how to make the most of your 3rd year of college while also taking care of yourself: 1. Prioritize Time Management - Create a balanced schedule for classes, internships, and personal time. - Use planners or apps to track assignments and deadlines. 2. Stay Organized - Keep your notes and study materials well-organized. - Break down big tasks into smaller, manageable chunks. 3. Focus on Academics - Attend lectures regularly and engage in class discussions. - Start preparing for exams and projects early to avoid last-minute stress. 4. Gain Practical Experience - Apply for internships or part-time jobs related to your field of study. - Join student clubs or societies that offer relevant experiences. 5. Take Care of Your Mental Health - Practice mindfulness or meditation to reduce stress. - Reach out to friends, family, or counselors if you feel overwhelmed. 6. Maintain Physical Health - Exercise regularly, even if it’s just a short walk or stretch. - Eat balanced meals and get enough sleep. 7. Build Strong Relationships - Network with professors, peers, and professionals in your field. - Make time for social activities to build lasting friendships. 8. Explore New Interests - Take up a hobby or learn a new skill outside of academics. - Attend workshops, seminars, or online courses that interest you. 9. Plan for the Future - Start thinking about your career goals and what you want to achieve post-graduation. - Seek guidance from mentors or career counselors. 10. Enjoy the Journey - Make time for fun and relaxation. College life is about more than just studying. - Embrace the challenges as opportunities for growth and learning. #finalyear #Delhiuniversity #DU #collegelife #balance #academics #mentalhealthawareness #journey #students #college #psychmajor #psychology #BA #Honours

In my college days, I was known as the diligent, on-time, note-taking student, always committed to attending every single lecture. Surprisingly, despite my dedication, I wasn't the class topper ( you are allowed to laugh) but consistently found myself in the top 5. Even with a distinction in my degree, I often wonder – was it all worth it? The question here is: Was it all worth it?? Reflecting on my journey, I realize I missed out on the typical college experiences – late-night parties, spontaneous trips, and the joy of carefree moments with friends. Was it worth not bunking classes, avoiding late-night outings/movies, etc. and sticking strictly to a routine? The resounding answer is a big NO. Why, I am telling you today? Because its one of the lesson learnt. College is more than just academics; it's a chapter where memories are crafted. Don't sit on your laptop & continuously study or create videos for your youtube channel/ instagram reels etc. Life is much more than behind the reels. I missed the chance to balance hard work with enjoyment, to have those unforgettable moments that only college life can offer. So, my advice to you: don't let the pursuit of academic excellence overshadow the magic of these years. Study hard, but also embrace the joy of friendships, parties, and adventures. Life is a beautiful blend of both, and finding that balance is key. I may have missed out, but I share this with you as a reminder to savor every aspect of your college journey – it's a time that won't come back. No complaints here, life is good :) but make sure you make the most of your college days! Happy weekend everyone! Outfit: Next #collegelife #lessonslearned #myjourney

This post is a bit late but I have successfully completed my first year of graduate school. To say I have learnt a tremendous amount this year is an understatement. Here are my top 4 lessons for anyone starting a graduate program this fall: 📓 It takes a village. I could not have gotten through this year without my family, my partner, and my friends, both lifelong and new. 📓Stay organized. There are so many moving parts between readings, assignments, lectures, practicum applications, extracurriculars, part-time jobs, socializing and self-care, that organization is key. It took me a few weeks but I found the planner book and calendar that work for me and they have become my life line. 📓Asking for help does not make you weak. It can be difficult to ask for help but don’t let that stop you. Class sizes are smaller so you become quite familiar with your professors who are there to help you! Your teacher assistants have been where you are and are a great resource as well. Lastly your classmates. You are all in this together. 📓Do what makes you happy. Between choosing to prioritize yourself, choosing a practicum site, or choosing courses, there are so many decisions to make in graduate school. Always make sure that when saying “yes” to someone else, you aren’t saying “no” to yourself. Make sure you carve out time to see friends, move around, watch your favourite shows, or make a delicious meal. I am by no means an expert but here is what I’ve learned. I am excited to see what the next few years have in store! 

Good evening folks! I was working with some Year 13 students who were "stuck" today and have been struggling with their next steps. The school wanted to help these students so, we had decided to run a "nurture group session" to see if there was anything that I could do. I took Group Guidance (working within the CDI guidelines) and combined them, with the "Theory of Career Inaction" Huge thanks to Lis McGuire RCDP for her awesome post that inspired and Liane Hambly (she/her), Julia Yates for their blogs: https://lnkd.in/eUYbruYY  https://lnkd.in/eqH_fCCF Our lovely partner school set aside prep-time for me to pull my session plan together, then later in the day... four students, me, a new career theory to try out and one glorious hour! (what could go wrong!?) 😅 I took a leap (out of the comfort zone); this was my rough plan: 1. Set boundaries and create a non-judgemental space - paying close attention to this. 2. Ask them to explore whether their Post 16 choices were good or bad (in hindsight) and why this was. 3. Ask them to explore how had they made their Post 16 choices, what had they learnt from this? 4. Reflect on why they were stuck now and if they knew why (for Post 18 choices)? 5. Share "Inaction" key points (which I pinched from Lis 😉). Feel Stuck - what do I choose? Feel Worried - will it work out? Want to enjoy now... not think about later! Too much choice - cognitive overwhelm 6. Ask them what they identified with (if any). This was then the remarkable bit, most identified with at least two elements and could now name where they were struggling. 7. I then reflected back, so they could hear themselves. 8. I asked them "If they were to make a smallest step, rather than a significant step (credit to Julia) what would it be?" Each identified their first steps for change. Some were very small such as "find out what my choices are and understand them" however, one lad had a lightbulb moment! He said, he had used "logic" to decide on staying in 6th Form, as he wanted freedom, to have fun and delay getting an apprenticeship. In hindsight, he felt he had gotten what he wanted (freedom) but not what he needed. He was now stuck, as he didn't trust his ability to make decisions, as he was overthinking everything. We had gotten to the last stage... what was his smallest step? He said "I know what I need to do". I said "go on". "I need to trust my gut... I need to just apply to college." Out came a huge story, how he had joined a band, wanted to learn music... give it a try. How an apprenticeship would always be there (via family) but he would regret not giving music a go. Bingo! We looked at each other and laughed, as we had been going round in circles for a while in previous sessions. He said thank you; I wound up the session 🤠 #careersimpact CXK #inspiringpeopletothrive

"Beginnings don’t stand out at the front of anything, they happen after endings." (Gretchen Schmelzer, "The Sacredness of Beginnings") Yesterday, my eldest son graduated from high school, nearly 14 years from when he started JK (junior kindergarten). It was hard to process and digest. One day he was standing at the bus stop for his first day of school, and the next he was receiving his high school diploma! (Or at least that's how it seemed!) Throughout the week leading up to grad, I've been aware of the depth of my emotions (tears - lots of tears!) connected to this event. When I'm honest with myself, I realize why. This was an ending. 🛑 The end of his high school experience. 🛑 The end of seeing his friends daily for months, as they all move on to new challenges and adventures, some in other cities and towns. 🛑 The soon-to-be ending of living at home, as he moves into residence at the end of the summer. And yet this ending will make space for new beginnings. 🌱 New school. 🌱 New friends and activities. 🌱 New area of study. 🌱 New work habits as he adapts to university life. 🌱 New memories which will last a lifetime. Embarking on a new beginning requires us to honour the ending. To appreciate all it taught us, reflect on what we learned and how we can take these learnings into the next stage. If you have experienced the sudden pain of job loss, honouring the ending may be hard to do. And yet it's the only way to get to the new beginning - the shiny new job which is a much better fit than what you left. So feel the feelings. Reflect on the value you can offer. Acknowledge that this period will be uncomfortable, and you will be okay. This is not your forever place. How do you honour your endings, so you can embrace your new beginnings? #coaching #careercoaching #careertransition #jobsearch Photo credit: Me (from yesterday's high school leaving ceremony) 👇👇👇👇 I'm Michelle. I can help you find work that energizes you, for a company that believes what you believe in. I've had to do this myself - several times! Interested in having a conversation partner to help you navigate your job search? Reach out to learn more!