Some fun things I incorporated into my busy schedule!
As humans, we frequently get caught up in all of the responsibilities of life that we can forget to simply appreciate it. Throughout my high school career, I have found that there is an extent where one can overstudy, overwork, and overbook their schedule. It is completely valid to want to strive to succeed as a student, athlete, or employee. However, there is a balance that needs to be found to achieve this success. Without a balance of work and play, I found myself struggling to give my best effort. At the end of the day, we all need a break sometimes, we are human.
Throughout high school, I have heavily involved myself in many extracurricular activities, sports, and clubs. At the beginning of my senior year, I found it difficult to find even a minute to breathe. I had extremely overworked myself and I was cramming way too many things into my schedule. I had many obligations that I needed to attend, tasks I needed to complete, shifts I had to work. Because of the numerous things I signed myself up for, I lost hours of sleep, family time, and energy. Time went on, and I neglected the long-drawn-out and overwhelming feeling that took over my life. I wanted to do it all on my own and thought that I could. Quickly, I was burnt out, my body could no longer handle the 4:45 am alarm - early workout - a full day of school - lunch meeting - shift after school - homework until bed lifestyle. I needed a change. The whole college application process was near, and I finally found a limit that I could not handle.
I began by deciding what my biggest priorities were and started brainstorming ways I could find a balance. I needed to decide what I was willing to give up – this was the hardest part for me, but I had to prioritize myself and my health. I could not handle it all and that is completely okay! I needed more time to enjoy my last year of high school, my last year living at home, and I wanted to finish strong. These things were very important to me. After thinking long and hard, I quit my job for the time being, and it ended up all working out for the better. My mood improved when I had more time to sleep and spend with my friends and family, I had found a balance. Changing my mindset to believe that time spent doing fun things was not a waste of time was life-changing for me. I was able to accomplish so much more in the end because I had more energy and more focus.
I would encourage everyone to evaluate what parts of their life may feel unbalanced and decide what parts could be lessened to help improve the quality of their life. It is going to look different for each and every person, work and play is not 50-50 for everyone. Setting intentions, goals, and establishing priorities are key. Some may need more time to relax and let loose, some may spend their relaxation time on the couch, while others would rather have a fun night out on the town. It's essential to spend a chunk of time every day doing something that fills your cup, in order to give your all in the important aspects of your life. Without a proper break, you cannot reach your full potential. Make sure to incorporate time to do things you enjoy into your busy schedule —watch the positive changes occur before your eyes!
Ellie Williams <3