3 Tips to help keep a positive mindset whilst doing an apprenticeship

Leaving school and starting an apprenticeship can feel overwhelming. It can take a while to settle into your apprenticeship, there is a lot to juggle from meeting new people, learning the job role and managing your apprenticeship work. This can make you feel overwhelmed and the tips in this blog will help you if you are feeling unsure of yourself. It’s completely normal to feel like this but here are a few things to think about.

Tip1

Organise yourself and your work

• Prioritising tasks will help you to be organised and make your life easier at work and during your apprenticeship.

• Start by writing a to-do list to plan for your day

• Set daily reminders of tasks you need to complete

• Organise emails and folders so you don't get mixed up

Tip2

Don't be afraid to ask for help

• Being an apprentice, you juggle many responsibilities, and it is normal to struggle during an apprenticeship. It can be difficult to ask for help because you are trying to make a good impression, or you may feel embarrassed.

• As an apprentice, you’re not expected to know everything, and your manager and colleagues will understand that.

• Don't be afraid of asking questions or for extra training if you think you’ll need it

• Your colleagues will be helpful and want to help you progress.

• It will help you feel more comfortable knowing you have support around you

• Asking for help is a good way to make new friends around your office

Tip3

Look after your well-being and do what makes you feel good about yourself

• When you start an apprenticeship it’s easy to worry about the small things and sometimes worrying too much can have a bad effect on your wellbeing.

• To help with your well-being you should try to get at least 8 hours of sleep

• ry to always eat breakfast in the morning

• Consume a healthy diet

• Exercise because this can have a good effect on your mood and increase your confidence which will make you feel calmer

To conclude, it gets easier. Some days will be harder than others it’s all about settling in and building confidence which won’t happen overnight. Be patient with yourself! During the harder days when you’re struggling the most try to remember the goals that you are trying to achieve. The apprenticeship will open many opportunities for you.

If you are interested in reading more about apprenticeships and the support available, please check out these links.

https://www.apprenticeships.scot/become-an-apprentice/mental-health-introduction/your-mental-health-at-work/

https://nshcs.hee.nhs.uk/programmes/apprenticeships/support-for-apprentices/

https://www.juiceacademy.co.uk/single-post/2016/07/08/cheadle-teen-lands-full-time-job-thanks-to-apprenticeship

Ellie Higson, Junior Content Producer Apprentice at G2F Media