Entering high school as a freshman was a whirlwind.
I still remember the stress of trying to find my way through the crowded hallways, navigating new teachers and classes, and adjusting to the expectations that came with the transition. On top of the academic pressure, I joined the junior varsity Drill Team, which added a whole new layer of complexity to my daily life. Suddenly, I was balancing not only the demands of high school but also the long hours of practice, performances, and team commitments. It felt like everything was pulling me in different directions, and I struggled to keep up.
At first, managing my time seemed impossible. I would rush from school to drill practice, squeezing in homework in between, and then collapse onto my bed, exhausted and feeling stressed. The pressure to perform well in both school and drill team left me feeling like I was constantly juggling, and I was always afraid I would drop something important. My schedule felt out of control, and there were moments where I questioned my time management.
The stress of feeling like there is never enough time was overwhelming. Last year, I learned that time management isn’t just about making sure every minute is filled with something productive. It’s about finding a balance that works for you, prioritizing what matters, making time for rest, and learning to be okay with not being perfect.
One of the first lessons I learned was that it’s okay to ask for help. Whether it was reaching out to teachers for clarification on assignments or leaning on my teammates when I felt too stressed, I realized I didn’t have to carry the weight of everything on my own. I began to create a more realistic schedule, one that allowed for breaks and moments of self-care. I learned to say “no” when my plate was too full and found ways to delegate or manage my responsibilities in a more thoughtful way.
I also realized that success isn’t just about being busy, but it’s about being intentional with how I spend my time. The drill team has taught me a lot about commitment and discipline, but it’s also shown me the importance of mental and physical well being. I’ve come to understand that taking time for myself is not a luxury— it’s a necessity. Whether it’s spending an evening with friends, taking a walk to clear my head, or just relaxing at home, these moments are essential for recharging and staying focused.
Looking back at the first semester of my freshman year, I can see how far I’ve come. The stress of juggling school and drill team hasn’t disappeared, but I’ve learned how to manage it better, and I hope to improve it throughout 2025. I’ve become more organized and intentional with my time, and as a result, I’ve been able to perform at my best without burning out.
As I prepare for the this new year, I know that managing my time will be even more important. The lessons I’ve learned throughout my first semester of high school will help me balance my academic responsibilities, extracurricular activities, and personal life.
Time management isn’t a perfect science, but it’s a skill that can be developed with patience, practice, and self-awareness. This year, my goal is to continue refining how I manage my time. I want to focus on staying organized, setting clear priorities, and giving myself grace when things don’t go according to plan. In the short time I’ve been a freshman, high school has taught me that while it’s important to work hard, it’s equally important to take care of yourself and enjoy the moments along the way. Managing my time with intention is key to making the most of my high school years and preparing for the future and its something I want to focus on improving this year.