So it’s back to school – in time for Christmas

In this age of social media, self-esteem seems to be particularly important; however, to be honest with Advertiser readers, I don’t really have any.

The word esteem means that you admire someone or something. But why would you admire yourself?

Any confidence we have as human beings should be earned.

If I go out and learn to play the guitar that’s confidence I have earned. If I start using fake tan and a truck-full of hairspray and manage to pull it off then that is worthy of praise.

Everyone loves to complain about President Trump and how awful a personality he has – and I agree – but that is a product of self-esteem.

My goal is to be more confident; self-esteem isn’t the be all and end all, otherwise we would all be like the Kardashians taking selfies every two minutes and posting Instagram photos of how great our behinds look in lycra. My calculator is at the ready and pencil case full to the brim with new stationary as school is back in session.

Although fourth-year was tough, I am really looking forward to cracking on with my studies.

I have a strong work ethic and believe that this is the key to a successful life, although I’ll get back to you on that one when I turn 40!

It’s double sessions in fifth-year and a lot more work but so far it hasn’t been too bad.

As a senior pupil, I feel that I have more independence and intend to embrace the classic mantra of Keep Calm and Carry On if I feel the pressure is starting to build.

One bad thing about returning to school is that summer is over and the darker nights are starting to roll in quicker than The Flash on roller-skates.

Not to sound too uncool, but it brings to mind the Chris Rea song Looking for the Summer – and we’ll be wondering what happened to it a lot more when Halloween and then Christmas come around.

The supermarkets are already stocking up on festive treats and gifts; it’s only a matter of time before their sound systems start blasting out The Pogues and Wizzard.

Or Driving Home For Christmas by that musical superstar Chris Rea!