I have recently overheard a number of discussions concerning the difficulty of high school, along with the possible techniques that one can use to balance their workload. I, for one, understand that high school is particularly challenging, and is often physically, mentally, and emotionally demanding. While you should allocate a substantial portion of your focus to studying and doing homework, high school is also about growing social relationships and enjoying your teenage years before heading off to college and the world of employment. In order to emphasize the importance of balancing your life, I believe that I have established a simple formula that all students should integrate into their daily lives:
- When doing academic work, give yourself ample time to take a break: School work often becomes overwhelming when a student attempts to complete it all in one sitting, or (in the worst case scenario) cram everything they need to do into a short period of time the night before it is due. These practices not only reduce the productivity of a student, but also limits the accuracy of his or her work, which gradually becomes a burden on grades. Yes, a student should focus heavily on school work, as success in school is truly a noticeable achievement. However, that does not mean that a student should solely focus on work. I recommend that students take multiple breaks each night when completing work. Take your dog for a walk, play basketball outside, talk to your family, or even play video games for all I care. Breaks are a necessity, and must be included in your daily routine in order to maintain your productivity.
- Play sports: Soccer and basketball were the two main things that kept me sane during the first two terms of junior year. Physical activity enhances cognitive function, keeps your body in adequate health, and is known to reduce stress, anxiety, and depression. Though physically demanding, sports act as the perfect break between the lengthy school day and the homework awaiting you afterwards. Additionally, sports encompass the idea of brotherhood at Priory. I have formed a number of new friendships with fellow players and coaches. These friendships provide joy, humor, trust, and a sense of camaraderie to my life.
- Join a Club: While the slate of classes at Priory is essential for building an educational foundation, they often do not fulfill your interests and desires. Clubs are an excellent solution to this problem. Students can fish, cook, practice law, build robots, and even drive RC cars through the numerous clubs that Priory offers. These activities are an excellent way to escape the stress of school and maintain your mental health.
- Hang out with your friends: In my opinion, friends are the most important part of your life at this stage of your development. Similarly to teammates, friends provide you with joy and comedic relief. They give you the opportunity to escape the stress of school life and enjoy other experiences. Many times throughout high school, your friends will ask you to hang out, go to Buffalo Wild Wings, or even go to a party. You should absolutely accept these invitations. There are only so many opportunities during your teenage years where you can go have fun with your friends. I have only now begun to realize that I am slowly running out of time to do so, and will no longer decline invitations on the weekend in order to complete work early. You must cherish the time that you have with those who are closest to you.
- Maintain a close relationship with your parents: While I regret to say this, it is easy to overlook your parents during your years in high school. You must avoid doing so in order to balance your life. Remember, your parents are the individuals who love you the most, who acknowledge what is in your best interest, and give you their utmost support. Reciprocate the love that they show towards you: watch the weird new movie when they ask, go to your sibling’s sporting events so that they do not have to go alone, and try to eat dinner with them frequently. I promise that spending quality time with your parents will benefit your emotional and mental status more than you would expect.
- Recognize the importance of faith in your life: Faith should be the foundation of your daily life. Prayer is a profound way that you can find peace during the hustle and bustle of earthly life. Remember, God is the one that gave you the gifts and talents to do the things that you do. God is the one who continues to look after you at every second of the day, and benefits you in ways that you do not and may never understand. Faith is one area of my life that needs noticeable improvement. I believe that if I work to strengthen my relationship with God, I will succeed in finding peace and happiness, and I believe that this idea applies to the majority of peoples’ lives.
