As we enter a new marking period, you might notice a familiar pattern—a plague spreading rapidly through the student population. No, I’m not talking about the mystery illness that seems to have mysteriously sidelined half the teachers these past few weeks. Though, now that we’re on the subject, isn’t it miraculous how no amount of coughing or sniffling stops them from assigning 20 summative projects all at once? It’s like they’re all synced to some spectral Bluetooth calendar. Coincidence? Doubtful.
But as tempting as it is to dive into my (very valid, mind you) teacher conspiracy theories, physical illness isn’t my real concern. I’m talking about something far more troubling: student burnout. And no one’s feeling it more than juniors and seniors. Honestly, it’s a miracle I’m even writing this article.
Motivation? I could use some. Sadly, Google Classroom’s assignment counter does more to inspire existential dread than educational enthusiasm. But, hey, that’s a conversation for another day.
For now, consider me your personal Fairy Godmother of Fairfield Warde. I’ve got your guide to surviving school as a burnt-out teenager. My qualifications? Glad you asked. Sure, I may struggle to part with my blanket cocoon each morning, but I also finished quarter one with straight A’s and a GPA over 4.0. So, I think I’ve earned the right to share a few pearls of wisdom.
Step 1: Protect Your Peace (and Your Sanity)
Yes, studying matters. But your mental health? That’s non-negotiable. If you don’t prioritize your well-being, you’re setting yourself up for failure in the long run. Take a walk, binge-watch cat videos, scroll aimlessly through TikTok—whatever it takes to recharge. As long as it’s for you (and not, you know, illegal—because vaping isn’t a hobby, it’s a problem), then it counts.
Step 2: Take a Beat Before the Books
The moment the final bell rings, resist the urge to bury yourself in homework. Trust me, a day full of classes already pushes your mental limits—don’t make it worse. Give yourself 30 to 40 minutes to decompress. Or, if you’re like me, maybe procrastinate until midnight (though I don’t officially endorse that strategy).
And no, I’m not seriously suggesting the midnight method. That was a joke. A very tired, very sarcastic joke. Let’s not take it literally, okay?
Step 3: Procrastination is NOT Your Friend
I get it—procrastination is tempting. Believe me, as the reigning Queen of Last-Minute Essays, I know this all too well. But trust me on this: putting off assignments only makes everything worse. The stress, the panic, the late nights? Totally avoidable. Start your work early, even if it’s just one small step at a time. Future You will thank you.
A Final Note
I hope these tips help make school just a little more manageable. To those rare souls who actually enjoy being here—I can’t say I blame you. I, too, thrive on the mental stimulation of a challenging assignment. But my struggles with school? They stem from a different tree entirely. Burnout is real, but we can beat it—one day, and one small win, at a time.