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I’m re-launching my monthly e-letter in a few da

I’m re-launching my monthly e-letter in a few days. In my head, it’s all written and I’ve got a fabulous new zingy (that dates me 😂👵🏻) design from @coppermothdesign

I’ve been through many iterations with the e-letter and in the end, we needed a break. For both our sakes. But I’ve fallen back in love with the whole process.And that’s mainly because I’ve been thinking about the lovely people currently on the list. Plus those I’d love to have join us.

I have plans and hopes and ideas. Because so many of us who live and work with young people care passionately about their wellbeing. And there’s now so much information about but teenagers are still struggling.

I’d like to have a window into how we can genuinely help them and ourselves more. So that their futures are as bright as they absolutely should be.

15 September is the day. Please do join us if this sounds your kind of thing. Here’s the link: http://eepurl.com/dtGZ65 for you to copy and paste.

You can also DM me or pop the word Window in the comments and I’ll send the link to you.

#selfconfidenceforteens #selfconfidenceforteenagers #youthmentor #mentoringmagic #teenagementalhealth #teenagesupport #teenmentalhealth #introvertlife #mentalhealthsupportforteens #teenwellbeing #compassionatementoring #mentoringforteens #calmandquiet #safeandsecure #inclusivegroups #calmcounsel #warmandwelcoming #timeandspace #safespace #bealighthouse #supportkit #wellbeingkit #peermentoring

If I had to choose just one thing to pass on to th

If I had to choose just one thing to pass on to the people I work with, it would be to help them to appreciate the power of reflection.

The chance to pause and look back on what has just happened- not in a beat-yourself-up-and-never-stop kind of way. But calmly and quietly.

We’re so often riddled with self doubt, the dance of overthinking gets out of control and before we know it, anxiety pops up for a visit.

I have developed self reflection practices for young people and adults alike. Drop me a DM to find out more.

#selfconfidenceforteens #selfconfidenceforteenagers #youthmentor #mentoringmagic #teenagementalhealth #teenagesupport #teenmentalhealth #introvertlife #mentalhealthsupportforteens #teenwellbeing #compassionatementoring #mentoringforteens #calmandquiet #safeandsecure #inclusivegroups #calmcounsel #warmandwelcoming #timeandspace #safespace #bealighthouse #supportkit #wellbeingkit #peermentoring

I’ve just done my end of month reflection - a lo

I’ve just done my end of month reflection - a look-back on what was great, what didn’t happen and what I want to take forward into September.

The summer months aren’t always the easiest for me - I have been known to moan August away. But I made a conscious effort to change that this year. And it’s been a really happy time.

But it did take some planning and then organising. But the result was a good mix of interesting work, planning for the rest of the year and relaxing with my family and friends. And the consumption of so much pasta, ice cream and chocolate. 😄

Did your summer go to plan? Pop me a message and we can compare notes. 🗒️

#selfconfidenceforteens #selfconfidenceforteenagers #youthmentor #mentoringmagic #teenagementalhealth #teenagesupport #teenmentalhealth #introvertlife #mentalhealthsupportforteens #teenwellbeing #compassionatementoring #mentoringforteens #calmandquiet #safeandsecure #inclusivegroups #calmcounsel #warmandwelcoming #timeandspace #safespace #bealighthouse #supportkit #wellbeingkit #peermentoring

In September, I’m going back to sending out a re

In September, I’m going back to sending out a regular e-letter. But one which is brighter, more vibrant and much more relevant to the work I do with young people.

There’s also been a lot of change here, and I didn’t feel the newsletter reflected that.

But I’ve had a rethink and @coppermothdesign has refreshed the design beautifully - and we’re all set to publish again in mid-September.

My vision for The Inkwell Notes is to reach a group of subscribers who are parents, youth leaders, or maybe work in schools in one capacity or other. What you all have in common is that you care about the wellbeing of young people very much.

I plan to share resources, ideas and thoughts which I hope will help us all. And you will qualify for a cheeky discount on programmes and sessions just by subscribing. And that always helps.

You can sign up now if this sounds like your thing in preparation for September. You can copy and paste this link: http://eepurl.com/dtGZ65

Or DM me and I’ll pop you the link.

Thank you ❤️

#selfconfidenceforteens #selfconfidenceforteenagers #youthmentor #mentoringmagic #teenagementalhealth #teenagesupport #teenmentalhealth #introvertlife #mentalhealthsupportforteens #teenwellbeing #compassionatementoring #mentoringforteens #calmandquiet #safeandsecure #inclusivegroups #calmcounsel #warmandwelcoming #timeandspace #safespace #bealighthouse #supportkit #wellbeingkit #peermentoring

As we’re coming to the end of summer, I’ve bee

As we’re coming to the end of summer, I’ve been reflecting back on the past few weeks.

I make no secret of the fact that I am an autumn fan girl through and through. I’m loving these late summer mornings when I can smell autumn as I open the back door.

But I’ve also been known to have an inner sulk all the way through August. Especially when it’s humid. Particularly when it’s humid.

But this year, I wanted that to change.

I feel I waste the summer rather than celebrate it. In previous years, I’ve either worked too much or too little. Often arriving in September feeling frazzled.

So I aimed for a balanced summer. And that’s what I got.

I needed to get some rest in but also wanted to see my family and friends. Get some behind the scenes work done. Travel. Be inspired. Feel creative. Have fun.

Me being me, this took some planning and I deployed my lists and planning sheets.

But within that order there’s been loads of fun and lots of love and laughter. I spent time with my immediate family and extended one - including my niece, my great nieces and my great great niece, the brilliant Freya 🥰

There’s been pasta and ice cream, trips to Europe and London. Inspiring meetings in Brighton. Great work projects. Lots of reading time. Watching cricket. Pottering in the garden. Learning more about social media marketing with @hicommunications_

Obviously not all has gone swimmingly. Some work projects didn’t advance as planned - but maybe sideways instead. And I wasn’t a fan of a seven hour delayed flight.

But I am heading into September feeling excited to be going back into school and also to be driving some exciting new projects forward.

And I’m calling my summer project a success!

#selfconfidenceforteens #selfconfidenceforteenagers #youthmentor #mentoringmagic #teenagementalhealth #teenagesupport #teenmentalhealth #introvertlife #mentalhealthsupportforteens #teenwellbeing #compassionatementoring #mentoringforteens #calmandquiet #safeandsecure #inclusivegroups #calmcounsel #warmandwelcoming #timeandspace #safespace #bealighthouse #supportkit #wellbeingkit #peermentoring

It’s been a lovely summer here. And not over yet

It’s been a lovely summer here. And not over yet. (Although the current weather might suggest otherwise.)

I return to my school work in early September and I’m looking forward to getting everything ready for that. I’ve been working on ideas to help improve the programmes and it’ll be great to put these in place.

I’ve also been having gentle chats with some of the students I work with - and the return to school is starting to bubble up.

I’ll be answering some of their questions on stories next week; sleep patterns seem to have gone awry for one thing!

I’m also starting to think about my own rituals and routines for the change of season. Some habits have crept in which are not that great and also won’t serve me well as life gets more demanding.

In the meantime, in England we have a bank holiday. I hope you get to enjoy that if you have the extra day too.

#selfconfidenceforteens #selfconfidenceforteenagers #youthmentor #mentoringmagic #teenagementalhealth #teenagesupport #teenmentalhealth #introvertlife #mentalhealthsupportforteens #teenwellbeing #compassionatementoring #mentoringforteens #calmandquiet #safeandsecure #inclusivegroups #calmcounsel #warmandwelcoming #timeandspace #safespace #bealighthouse #supportkit #wellbeingkit #peermentoring

Mid August and the days are easy and light-filled.

Mid August and the days are easy and light-filled. The start of September and return to school will come soon enough. But for now, there’s space.

To think. Catch up. Plan. And dream.

The creativity has started to flow again too I’ve noticed. I was listening to a podcast last week and suddenly ideas were popping into my head like mini fireworks.

I want to catch these thoughts before they drift off downstream. Because this is where the magic lies. ✨

#selfconfidenceforteens #selfconfidenceforteenagers #youthmentor #mentoringmagic #teenagementalhealth #teenagesupport #teenmentalhealth #introvertlife #mentalhealthsupportforteens #teenwellbeing #compassionatementoring #mentoringforteens #calmandquiet #safeandsecure #inclusivegroups #calmcounsel #warmandwelcoming #timeandspace #safespace #bealighthouse #supportkit #wellbeingkit #peermentoring

There are several ways in which you can work with

There are several ways in which you can work with me. At the core of everything I do, is the belief and understanding that we all need a safe, secure space to help unpack what’s going on. As a mentor, I am a gentle guide through life’s ups and downs. I’ve 20 years’ + experience and training and I know that no matter how difficult a situation, there’s always a glimmer of hope and light.

❤️ For young people, I run online mentoring sessions. I have developed a supportive six week programme and also have drop-in sessions on offer.

❤️For schools, as a specialist in peer mentoring, I offer specific training on creating and running programmes. I am available for CPD sessions on developing safe spaces and reflecting on past terms.

❤️ I have recently started working with a small number of adults too - offering them their own safe space in which to unwind and gain clarity.

We all need a safe space. Inkpots Mentoring can be yours.

Please DM me or email gill@inkpots.org for more details, and an informal no obligation chat.

#selfconfidenceforteens #selfconfidenceforteenagers #youthmentor #mentoringmagic #teenagementalhealth #teenagesupport #teenmentalhealth #introvertlife #mentalhealthsupportforteens #teenwellbeing #compassionatementoring #mentoringforteens #calmandquiet #safeandsecure #inclusivegroups #calmcounsel #warmandwelcoming #timeandspace #safespace #bealighthouse #supportkit #wellbeingkit #peermentoring

A few months ago, I put my regular e-letter on hol

A few months ago, I put my regular e-letter on hold because it (I ! ) had run out of steam.

There’s also been a lot of change here, and I didn’t feel the newsletter reflected that.

But I’ve had a rethink and @coppermothdesign has refreshed the design beautifully - and we’re all set to publish again in mid-September.

My vision for The Inkwell Notes is to reach a group of subscribers who are parents, youth leaders, or maybe work in schools in one capacity or other. What you all have in common is that you care about the wellbeing of young people very much.

I plan to share resources, ideas and thoughts which I hope will help us all. And you will qualify for a cheeky discount on programmes and sessions just by subscribing. And that always helps.

You can sign up now if this sounds like your thing in preparation for September. You can copy and paste this link: http://eepurl.com/dtGZ65

Or DM me and I’ll pop you the link.

Thank you ❤️

#selfconfidenceforteens #selfconfidenceforteenagers #youthmentor #mentoringmagic #teenagementalhealth #teenagesupport #teenmentalhealth #introvertlife #mentalhealthsupportforteens #teenwellbeing #compassionatementoring #mentoringforteens #calmandquiet #safeandsecure #inclusivegroups #calmcounsel #warmandwelcoming #timeandspace #safespace #bealighthouse #supportkit #wellbeingkit #peermentoring

This is not a pity post! But in a world where man

This is not a pity post!

But in a world where many people now offer support to young people, why pick me?

I could give you the stats. The references. The quotes from satisfied clients. (And you can definitely have those should you want them.)

I want you to know though, that I care. About each and every young person who comes through the Inkpots ‘door’.

My work is backed up by over 20 years’ experience and practical, hands-on work. I also apply new ideas from training I attend to the programmes and sessions.

This is not just a fad, or a passing phase – or indeed, a response to the current MH crisis among young people.

This has been a decades long commitment to the wellbeing of young people and my desire to help as many as possible fulfil their own dreams and ambitions on their terms.

Plus, I also like cake. A lot 😉

📸 @jennysmithphoto

#selfconfidenceforteens #selfconfidenceforteenagers #youthmentor #mentoringmagic #teenagementalhealth #teenagesupport #teenmentalhealth #introvertlife #mentalhealthsupportforteens #teenwellbeing #compassionatementoring #mentoringforteens #calmandquiet #safeandsecure #inclusivegroups #calmcounsel #warmandwelcoming #timeandspace #safespace #bealighthouse #supportkit #wellbeingkit #peermentoring

I have a new offering for adults which I was plann

I have a new offering for adults which I was planning to share when the new website is ready. But then it occurred to me that the summer is the perfect time because it is specifically aimed at those who work in education settings as well as small business owners (maybe busy parents too - you may well be all three!)

I am very excited about this - it’s called Review, Reflect, Renew.

Each session lasts for one and a half hours and in those 90 minutes, we will:

Reflect – we’ll look back over the past few months or term and go through the various events. All the ups and downs, the highlights and the lowlights; we’ll get everything on to the table.

Review – this part of the process is to put things into some kind of perspective. Despite the inevitable challenges, there will also have been some triumphs, and we should celebrate that.

Renew – together, we will dive into what you’d like to take forward and where you’d like to be. We’ll set some goals and see what changes you could make that are achievable and realistic. We’ll aim for an all-round happier and healthier time for you. Crucially, we’ll identify the habits which are not working well and which should be left behind.

The power of this exercise - especially with support - can be phenomenal. It’s a fabulous way to uncover what you really want out of life. All done in an environment where you will be supported and able to feel safe.

I’ve also got a great discount to share too - so, please do drop me a DM if this has resonated with you at all.

#selfconfidenceforteens #selfconfidenceforteenagers #youthmentor #mentoringmagic #teenagementalhealth #teenagesupport #teenmentalhealth #introvertlife #mentalhealthsupportforteens #teenwellbeing #compassionatementoring #mentoringforteens #calmandquiet #safeandsecure #inclusivegroups #calmcounsel #warmandwelcoming #timeandspace #safespace #bealighthouse #supportkit #wellbeingkit #peermentoring

I am really proud of the mentoring hub that the st

I am really proud of the mentoring hub that the students I mentor at The Burgess Hill Academy and I have developed over the past few years.

But, no matter if you meet me there, at another setting or online the space will always feel safe:

* there’ll be no huge targets or expectations;
* a young person will be able to fully relax and be themselves;
* we’ll set very clear boundaries around confidentiality;
* we’ll work together to break down any challenges, focussing on a young person g person’s strengths.

Pop me a DM if you’d like to know more.

#selfconfidenceforteens #selfconfidenceforteenagers #youthmentor #mentoringmagic #teenagementalhealth #teenagesupport #teenmentalhealth #introvertlife #mentalhealthsupportforteens #teenwellbeing #compassionatementoring #mentoringforteens #calmandquiet #safeandsecure #inclusivegroups #calmcounsel #warmandwelcoming #timeandspace #safespace #bealighthouse #supportkit #wellbeingkit #peermentoring

I try to regularly pause and reflect on what’s b

I try to regularly pause and reflect on what’s been happening here at Inkpots. End of each month and quarter works well for me; it’s a process which is so helpful and stops spiralling worries. Because I can see the action that needs to be taken, I can put practical plans in place.

I use a simplified process with my students but I think it’s particularly helpful for those who work in education, run a small business and are parents. Having a bit of space to process things is so important.

I’ve included work things on the slides but on a personal level, July brought a fabulous family get together, some travel and time by the river in Maastricht plus Kiss me Kate at @barbicancentre

On the downside, exercise and good eating went out the window (SO much chocolate) and I wasn’t as organised as I’d like.

In August, another trip beckons as does meet ups with friends and fab colleagues plus a fine pile of books to read. Bliss ☺️

#selfconfidenceforteens #selfconfidenceforteenagers #youthmentor #mentoringmagic #teenagementalhealth #teenagesupport #teenmentalhealth #introvertlife #mentalhealthsupportforteens #teenwellbeing #compassionatementoring #mentoringforteens #calmandquiet #safeandsecure #inclusivegroups #calmcounsel #warmandwelcoming #timeandspace #safespace #bealighthouse #supportkit #wellbeingkit #peermentoring

My happy, smiley face might suggest otherwise, but

My happy, smiley face might suggest otherwise, but I am a fully committed introvert.

I should add that I couldn’t stop smiling on the day of the photo shoot because @jennysmithphoto is just so brilliant to work with.

But, despite fronting workshops and training sessions, I need acres of time to myself. I love it when it’s ‘show time’ but then also need the reassurance that I have a weekend coming up when I only speak to Rosie the Inkpots cat.

When I am with those I love, with the people I feel most at ease with, I rarely pause for breath! But, put me in a larger group and I’ll gravitate to the edges, silently watching what’s happening.

So I’m an introvert. And so are many of my students.

Many of the young people I work with are just realising that they too need time on their own so they can fully recharge.

Some of them may well be a bit shy - but most of them aren’t.

Most of them are observers. They like to take in what is evolving in front of them.

It’s all part of them finding their own paths in the world. And sometimes, it’s takes courage to say that they are not being anti-social. Just in need of a bit of quiet.

#selfconfidenceforteens #selfconfidenceforteenagers #youthmentor #mentoringmagic #teenagementalhealth #teenagesupport #teenmentalhealth #introvertlife #mentalhealthsupportforteens #teenwellbeing #compassionatementoring #mentoringforteens #calmandquiet #safeandsecure #inclusivegroups #calmcounsel #warmandwelcoming #timeandspace #safespace #bealighthouse #supportkit #wellbeingkit #peermentoring

“I like having someone to talk to who really lis

“I like having someone to talk to who really listens. Gill doesn’t interrupt me when I’m finding it hard to get the words right.”

#selfconfidenceforteens #selfconfidenceforteenagers #youthmentor #mentoringmagic #teenagementalhealth #teenagesupport #teenmentalhealth #introvertlife #mentalhealthsupportforteens #teenwellbeing #compassionatementoring #mentoringforteens #calmandquiet #safeandsecure #inclusivegroups #calmcounsel #warmandwelcoming #timeandspace #safespace #bealighthouse #supportkit #wellbeingkit #peermentoring

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