If you’re on this page, it’s most likely because you are a student in the IB program. This year, although not as complicated as last, is still going to be a difficult year, especially for juniors and seniors. New adversities will come into play like your Extended Essay, AP classes, Internal Assessments, and more. The important part is that we are still young. We need to adjust and work through it, please don't forget you're a kid. You need time to be yourself, whether it be by playing a sport or hanging out with friends. Make time for your social life but, of course, school is crucial.
To stay motivated and determined to finish high school with that IB diploma and bragging rights, make sure to manage your time wisely. I know it seems so cliche, adults are always telling us to time management but it's a cliche for a reason. It truly does make a huge difference when you have everything organized and planned out. If you're not an organized person, I recommend starting by writing down what you have to do, like in an agenda, or I use the reminders app on my phone. Make it part of your routine to keep up with everything you need to do for the week. Maybe even set a daily alarm to remind yourself to write or check your agenda or reminders. It will make life so much easier, I promise.
Another significant thing to keep up with everything is to stop over-stressing. I know it's easier said than done but make sure you take a breather. Try to find activities or hobbies to help you calm down. Some people use sports as a release, or other activities such as painting, reading, baking, and dancing. Almost anything can be your release. Even as simple as laying on the couch listening to music, or watching an episode of your favorite show. During that time, IB stress shouldn't cross your mind. Don’t spend too much time relaxing, because then there won't be time left for homework and the cycle will continue.
My last tip is mainly for those who don't like doing work, which is most of us. I know it sucks and it takes up some time to complete but in the end, you know you're going to feel so good that you can sleep even an hour earlier than normal. Try to get all the tiresome, mind-wrenching stuff out of the way first. The second we get home, we normally want to unwind and forget about school but having that education brain still intact will make the work go by faster. That way, you finish with time left over for you to relax, and maybe even go to sleep early, because let's be honest, we all need it.
Everyone is different, and not the same schedule or tips will work for everyone, but I do think these will. I know that most of you will not implement all these tips, but even if you take one tip, I promise it will help. It is our responsibility to find the most efficient daily schedule, so we stop struggling to balance work and sleep. Please remember that it's important to take a break, and not to let school stress you out too much.