Dear Chip,

I have so much on my plate, and I need a way to handle all of it. I am involved in five clubs at school, a sport, and a job on top of seven classes. My schedule is a mess; I have school five days a week, practice every day after school, do homework and then work/club events on the weekends. I must pick and choose which club’s events to even attend because I lack time to do them all. I’ve never been the type to involve myself in many things, so jumping into numerous extracurricular activities is a lot for me to handle. This takes most of my time, so I have no time to hang out with friends or have any type of social life. If that’s not bad enough, I feel the need to be the best at everything I do. I spend hours on homework and studying to make sure I keep all A’s, and for my sport, I push myself so hard during matches that I go home bruised and sore because I’m scared of letting the team down. I know the simple answer is just to quit some clubs or take fewer shifts at work. However, if I don’t keep working or pushing myself as hard as possible, I won’t get into a good college and, in turn, won’t have the career I’ve wanted since I was a child. It’s all just mentally draining at times. Chip, help me out.

Sincerely, an overwhelmed and overworked student

Dear Overwhelmed and Overworked Student,

I know how you feel, being involved in so much and so busy, but you do not want to lose any of it. I make the same decisions as you do, but from my experience, you do not become less busy, you just learn to manage your time and make the most of it. High school is some of the best years of your life, and you do not want to miss anything but sometimes sacrifices must be made. From my experience, prioritize the things that mean the most to you, and use any spare time. I cannot take away your stress, but even things like if given five minutes at the end of class, do not just talk, start your homework because it will give you more time for other things later. I know high school can be hard, but always remember why you started and find encouragement in every situation. For some extra encouragement, the things I have found most helpful are planning your entire week on Sunday so you can maximize your time. For me, this has become huge and allows me to enter the week prepared. Even though now all the work you are putting in may seem stressful, in the end it will all be worth it. Always remember how many people love and support you. I know it can be hard, but do not always focus on the stress in your life. Enjoy every moment because you cannot go back. School is not easy, but it is only temporary. Graduation will be one of your biggest accomplishments and will always remind you of how strong you are. You have this, I believe in you!

Wishing you the best, Chip