If your summer has been anything like my summer has been, it has not been very relaxing. Between summer school, volunteer work, ASB work, and AP summer assignments I have, summer has been nothing like what I imagined it would be back in May. Although I have decided to make the most of my summer academically, it definitely hasn't given me the rest and relaxation I believe everybody needs. So I have devised a plan in which anybody, including yourself, can enjoy that summer sun while still being able to be academically active. This plan can be divided into 3 main points:
1. Keep a calender! The best thing that I have discovered this summer was not the "useful" information I have learned in summer school, but that keeping track of your schedule helps you not only stay organized, but allows you to know when you are free. See, it may be difficult to actually remeber when you are busy with activities, and this could make it so you are unable to plan any relaxing events. Keep track of your schedule, it will keep you organized, and keep any unnecessary stress off your mind. =)
2. Make an effort to go out with friends. With all those activities going on, it is very easy for one to get worn out and just sit at home whenever they get the chance. While this may help you with your sleep, it really won't help out in the long run. Everybody needs at least a little time just to be a kid and hang out with other teenagers. Let's face it, nobody can survive being cut off from the rest of the world. =]
3. Just keep saying it will be all worth it in the end! Probably the worst part of having a super packed schedule is the stress and strain it puts on your mind. Many people do not see this, and try to remedy the physical effects while ignoring the psychological effects. I have found that see this summer as a part of a bigger picture not only helps keep me motivated, but also eases my mind. How you ask? It may not be true for some, but I believe that knowing the fact that the stress you are putting upon yourself is for your greater good, makes that particular event less of a burden, and more of a stepping stone towards a goal. So make sure to look at things in the context of the "big picture".
