Back to School for Grown-Ups: Upskill, Refresh & Reboot This Summer
Remember the buzz of fresh notebooks, the smell of new pens, and the promise of a clean slate? September might not be your school start anymore, but there’s no reason grown-ups can’t get in on the action. Summer is the perfect time to hit reset, upskill and give your work habits a seasonal refresh – and we’ve got just the tools to help.
Why Summer Is Prime Time for Learning
Workplaces tend to ease into a slightly slower rhythm over the summer months. With colleagues off on holiday and inboxes a little quieter, it’s the ideal window to invest in yourself. Whether you’re brushing up on digital skills, tackling leadership development, or simply sharpening your time management, a bit of personal learning can pay big dividends come autumn.
Make Space for Success
Just like schoolkids need a tidy desk to do their homework, your learning space matters too. Clear your work area, ditch the clutter, and set up a corner that’s calm and distraction-free.
• Tip: A desktop organiser helps keep things streamlined and stylish.
• Bonus points for adding an ergonomic footrest or lumbar support – you’ll be clocking hours at your desk in comfort.
Tools That Spark Creativity
There’s something deeply satisfying about cracking open a fresh notepad or trying out a new pen. Not only do good tools make note-taking easier, they can actually help with memory retention too.
• Try colour-coding notes with BIC’s multicolour pens or Pilot’s FriXion range, which let you erase and re-write – ideal for messy thinkers and big planners.
• A good quality notebook or refill pad, like those from Oxford or Pukka, is the grown-up equivalent of a fresh exercise book.
Plan It, Smash It
Whether you’re following an online course or just working through a few TED Talks and articles, a plan makes it stick. Use a weekly planner to set goals and track your progress.
• Stationery pro tip: A physical planner or desk pad can often beat digital calendars for learning tasks – it keeps your goals in sight, and your screen free for content.
Top Upskilling Ideas to Try This Summer
• Digital literacy: Master Excel, explore AI tools, or learn a new software that’s relevant to your role.
• Leadership: Take a short course in people management or emotional intelligence.
• Wellbeing: Learn about mindfulness at work, stress management or workplace ergonomics.
• Communication: Improve your business writing or presentation skills – all the better for those September meetings!
Back to School, Forward in Work
Getting back into a “learning mindset” isn’t about going back – it’s about moving forward. Summer offers a rare chance to grow without the pressure of peak season.
So, grab that pen (yes, the really nice one), open your notebook, and give yourself the gift of learning. Your future self – and your team – will thank you.
