Tips for Success

1. To Do Lists

Outline the set of tasks that you have to complete. Once you can visualize what you have to do, you won’t be daunted by your assignments.

2. Budget Your Time

Plan out your day, minute-by-minute. With this schedule, you will have the confidence and tools to complete all your tasks. A sample weekly schedule has been provided above on this page.

3. Rewards System

Set up a system of rewards so that you can look forward to finishing a set of tasks. For instance, give yourself a semi-healthy snack once you read 10 pages of your textbook. This little boost of endorphins will give you the encouragement to keep working.

4. Ask For Help and Move On

When you find yourself stressing over a seemingly impossible problem, text a friend or email a teacher. Then move on to other tasks. Don’t spend hours focusing on this problem, however significant it may seem to be at the time. Wasted time will slow you down, and you will be emotionally drained as a result of the energy spent on that one problem.

5. Take Breaks to Breathe

I know, I know; this seems a little excessive. Go online and find some breathing exercises. Whenever you find yourself worrying, put your pens and pencils down and breathe. Try closing your eyes while breathing in through your nose and out through your mouth. Moments like these are necessary to recharge.

6. Eat Healthy

While you may be tempted to reach for that slice of pizza, putting the right foods in your body will boost your energy and thereby give you the stamina you need to get your work done. Foods with high fat and sugar contents will make you sluggish and unmotivated to complete your tasks. Focus on fruits, veggies, and other high-fiber foods.

7. Restful Sleep

Obviously, you won’t be able to focus or work your best without a good night’s sleep. While I understand that sometimes sleep is the first thing to go when school work is piled high, there are a few tips to make the most of those precious hours of slumber. First, don’t do your work in your bedroom (if possible); it may lead to an association between your room and your work, which will make it harder for you to fall asleep. If this is not possible, try to carve out a safe space in your room for school work. Do the homework that does not require screen time last. Technology before bed has been proven to decrease quality of sleep. If you find yourself worrying while you are trying to snooze, try clenching each muscle in your body one-by-one, starting with your feet, until you clench your entire body. Then release. This relief will make your body feel de-stressed and will allow you to fall asleep faster (Google "Progressive Muscle Relaxation" techniques).

8. Exercise

Experts say that everyone needs at least a half hour of exercise each day. Not only does exercise help you with restful sleep but also exercise boosts endorphins, which, in turn, make you more happy and less anxious.

9. Days to Relax

Just like a good night of sleep, you need a day of fun to recharge from a week of school. Set aside time to spend Friday or Saturday with friends or family. Do not focus on anything relating to work or school during these times.

10. Seek Help If Necessary

If you find that academic stress has consumed your life, talk to a teacher, counselor, parent, or another trusted adult. While a certain amount of anxiety is normal, no one should worry alone.