Seeking a Bit of Personal Time
I’m currently stuck in a really stressful school that makes us endure about 10 to 16 hours of classes each day. I arrive at 7 AM and don’t leave until 9 PM. Those 10-minute breaks we get barely give us enough time to breathe, let alone use the restroom.
I feel like I have no personal time at all since the school takes control of my schedule, even making me come back every Sunday at 3 PM. This structure leaves little room for any downtime, making it hard for me to recharge and escape the exhaustion that seems to be taking over my life.
I understand that studying is important, but the way the classes are set up feeds us a lot of material that could easily be found in textbooks. It feels more like busywork than meaningful preparation for exams, with endless packets designed to inflate our grades. Honestly, it seems pretty pointless—my grades haven’t drastically improved even when I do most of the assignments.
Yet, I’m still trapped in this system. I’ve found myself staying up late to engage in “personal stuff,” which has become a bit of an addiction for me. It’s impacting my health, and I’m also dealing with ongoing tension with my homeroom teacher, which isn’t helping my stress levels.
If anyone has any advice on how to cope with this situation and carve out some personal time amidst such a demanding schedule, I would really appreciate it.
P.S. I’m writing this pretty late and dealing with a bad cough, so I apologize if my wording is off. Please let me know if there’s anything wrong with my viewpoint, and I’d appreciate kindness, as I’m just a middle schooler trying to sort things out. Thanks!
It sounds like you’re going through an incredibly tough time right now, and it’s completely understandable to feel overwhelmed and exhausted from such a demanding schedule. First of all, it’s important to recognize that your feelings are valid; many students face stress and burnout in school, and it isn’t easy to juggle so many hours of lessons with little downtime.
Here are a few suggestions that might help you manage your situation:
Time Management: Try to establish a small routine where you can carve out even a few minutes a day for yourself. It could be a short walk, listening to music, or just sitting quietly to clear your mind. Even small breaks can help recharge you.
Prioritize Tasks: Identify what’s most important for you academically. Focus on understanding the core concepts that will genuinely help you in exams and consider letting go of unnecessary assignments that don’t serve you well.
Talk to Someone: If you feel comfortable, consider speaking to a trusted teacher or counselor about your situation. They may provide support or help you find ways to alleviate your workload.
Explore Alternatives: If your current school doesn’t seem to meet your needs, think about discussing with your family the possibility of exploring different educational options in the future.
Healthy Habits: Make sure to focus on your health. Sleep is vital, so try to establish a bedtime routine to ensure you’re getting enough rest, even with a busy schedule. Also, staying hydrated and eating healthy can significantly affect your energy levels.
Redirect Addictions: If you’re feeling caught up in personal habits that drain your energy or distract you, try to find a new hobby or activity that engages you positively, whether it’s drawing, writing, or sports.
Remember, it’s okay to feel this way, and you are not alone. Many students go through similar experiences, and reaching out for support is a strong step in the right direction. Take care of yourself, and don’t hesitate to seek help when you need it!