Balancing Act [Blog Comp]

You’ve made it to final year of high school - a tricky conundrum where you find yourself in amidst the most study you will face and the most social events to attend. The looming pressure of striving to do well in VCE® Exam is equally matched with the promise that Year 12 is in fact, a highly enjoyable year. 

The secret does not lie within studying mindlessly for hours and hours. Nor does it mean your grades have to drop if you are to still maintain a social life. It seems Hannah Montana was right all along; you really can have the best of both worlds. 

In order to succeed in life, prioritising a work- life balance is vital. The benefits are in abundance: reduced stress, control over time management and increased focus and motivation which all lead to studying more effectively. These life skills extend past the boundaries of the school gates and can be utilised all throughout life. 

So, to ace this year, follow these four key pointers. 

 

Organise and prioritise 

It’s what your student managers have been yapping about since day one of year 7: Organisation is key! Pencil in SACs, assessments and other key due dates. Pencil in any 18ths or catch ups. Having a physical reminder of what needs to be completed and when allows you to stay ahead of the ball game and not be caught out unexpectedly. Similarly, it becomes easier to prepare for SACs when allocating ample amounts of time to study for it. This means that if there is a party that coming weekend, you are able to attend without a trace of guilt as you know you have studied in advance. Score. 

 

Plan your time effectively

Dedicate appropriate chunks of time to studying. 45 minute or hour study blocks are effective broken up with short breaks. Studies have shown that going for a quick walk, getting some fresh air or having a healthy snack are sure fire ways of recharging your batteries. Effective study breaks involve making a schedule and actually sticking to it. This ensures you are making the most of your time and energy. 

 

Time for yourself 

We are all familiar with the taxing toll Year 12 stress and hard work has on us. The momentous weight of study must be balanced by some time off for yourself. Spending time with family and friends instead of being cooped up in your room 24/7 will help you retain some sanity in this stressful time. It is important to still participant in your hobbies; whether it may be a sport, a musical instrument or painting, allocating some down time to these activities will break up tedious study with some enjoyment. Similarly, checking in with your wellbeing is crucial. Taking time to relax or meditate will allow your body and mind to relax. At the end of the day, your health is the most important consideration so ensure you sleep and eat appropriately. 

 

Fvce

Not to state the bleeding obvious but Year 12 is an important year in terms of schooling. By all means, work hard and do the best you can. At the end of the year, you should feel proud of your achievements and the hard work you have put in. That being said, it definitely is not the be all and end all. You can take a breather knowing that your entire existence does not depend on the four digit number you receive at the denouement of high school. Put in perspective, this year is one of life’s many learning curves. So try your best and take care of yourself while you’re at it.

 

You’ve got this.