Finding Your Rhythm: Tips for Thriving this School Year

It’s been a month since the school year began, and the excitement’s worn off. Some have settled into their rhythm, but not everyone has. As a junior, I’ve gathered strategies to reflect on the last few weeks and help you find your stride.

First, we can reassess our organizational system. Be honest with yourself and find a system that will work for you.  I’ve switched from elaborate planners to basic digital calendars. Sometimes, simple, consistent methods are most effective.

Next, let’s reflect on time management. After a month of classes, you might have noticed how digital distractions can affect your efficiency. You might realize “quickly” that checking social media wastes hours. You can start by putting your phone in another room while studying, and if that’s not enough, set screen time limits. While I initially hated it, I’ve improved my concentration and productivity.

Now it’s time to evaluate your workload. Make sure your commitments are sustainable. Setting realistic goals prevents burnout and disappointment. Last year, I tried juggling too many clubs and advanced classes, which left me exhausted. This year, I chose to focus on clubs that really mattered to me, which made a remarkable difference in my stress levels. Remember: colleges prefer to see dedication and leadership in a few activities over surface-level participation in many. As for challenging classes, don’t wait until you’re drowning in work to reach out for help. Making friends and study groups in every class can save you from complete confusion multiple times. Additionally, explaining concepts to others is one of the best ways to solidify your own understanding. 

Finally, let’s check in with our routines. You might be pushing yourself too hard in your academics and neglecting other aspects of life. We know we should be exercising, eating well, and getting enough sleep, but these vague goals can’t always translate to action with our schedules and classes. I’ve found that planning specific activities makes me more likely to do them. For me, that’s morning jogs, family meal prep on Sundays, and a strict bedtime to make sure I get the best sleep possible. And, just as a reward, I spend 20 minutes on Minecraft twice a week. Find what works for your schedule, relaxes you, and sets you up for success. Then, commit to it. Your future self will thank you when exams arrive.

We still have most of the year ahead of us, so there’s plenty of time to adjust our habits and set ourselves up for success. The challenges of high school are real, but with intentional planning and self-awareness, we can survive and thrive. Remember, finding your rhythm isn’t about perfection. It’s about creating sustainable habits that work for your unique situation.