Updated: Apr 7, 2020
“Balance is not something you find, it’s something you create.”
– Jana Kingsford
Sometimes we feel as if everything is coming at us all at once. The math test, the birthday party, the English exam, the fro-yo date. It can be overwhelming and quite uncomfortable. Between schoolwork, extracurriculars and maintaining an active social life, we oftentimes get stuck choosing one over the other.
Everyone is different. For some, maintaining good grades may not be as important as attending a party, while others might think the complete opposite. Whether you are a social butterfly or a stay-at-home-and-read kind of person, it is important to find a good balance.
Here are a few tips that can keep you on track:
1. Keep an updated schedule.
Keep track of your activities and your grades. Focus on the classes you have trouble catching up to. Try to mark dates on calendars where you have important events, so you don’t have to be two places at once. For example, knowing that you have a test on Tuesday can save you from attending a party on Monday night and then regretting it the next day.
2. Work Ahead
And…..I have to say it…… don’t procrastinate. Working ahead of your peers sometimes can help you do better in class. It can help you understand things better since you are previewing the material. Make plans two days in advance, instead of the day of. For example, if you want to plan a study date, do it two days before so that you have time to prepare. So that you can make sure that you have nothing else to do that night. You can use the extra time to cancel if you need to, without making it difficult for the other person.
3. Get a good night’s sleep
Sleeping well can help you feel relaxed. More importantly, it makes you feel more ready to tackle a busy day. “Lack of sleep costs the United States over $411 Billion Annually, reported Fortune Magazine.” Save money for the government and sleep! “3-5% of obesity in adults could be caused by lack of sleep.” Healthy habits as a teenager can often ensure healthy habits as an adult. Find more statistics here.
Make time for yourself: No matter how busy your schedule is, always find time to be alone. At least once a week, just sit down, relax, maybe listen to some music if you’re not comfortable with complete silence. Forget about your phone for 5 minutes. Don’t check your email, don’t scroll through social media. Just think.
All of these tricks and more can help you find just the right balance between everything daily activity.
You're Not Alone 