Improving My GPA and Staying Motivated
Hey everyone, sorry for the long post, but I have a lot on my mind.
I’m a 16-year-old junior in high school, currently facing some challenges. My GPA is around 2.5, and while I’m enrolled in several college/AP courses, I find the work manageable. The real issue is my lack of motivation to complete assignments. I also deal with mental health challenges, including depression, anxiety, ADHD (inattentive type), autism, OCD, and a couple of personality disorders. My doctors also suspect I have dyslexia and dyscalculia, though I don’t have formal diagnoses for those yet.
Lately, I’ve been struggling significantly in school. My GPA might have dropped further, and I have a lot of incomplete work. It often feels exhausting to even start, and when I do, I either make mistakes or don’t finish. I live in a remote area without access to tutors or extra help, which makes it harder.
I’m surrounded by friends who usually have high GPAs (most of them above 3.0), and one of my friends is even graduating as valedictorian. I genuinely care about them, but I sometimes feel a twinge of envy when they complain about grades that are still higher than mine. It’s frustrating.
History has always been my passion, and I dream of becoming a high school history teacher. My current APUSH teacher has really inspired me in this direction. However, many people around me (excluding my mom) think this ambition is foolish. Their doubts weigh on me, especially because I hate school and worry about the low pay teachers receive. It’s discouraging when people say I wouldn’t be good at teaching, especially since it’s something I’m genuinely passionate about.
I’m reaching out to see if anyone who has struggled academically has any tips on staying motivated and getting work done. I’m feeling pretty desperate at this point since I currently have 3 Fs, 1 D, and an A and a B. My mom is disappointed because she knows I’m capable of more, which adds to my stress. Any advice would be much appreciated. Thank you!
TL;DR: I’m struggling in school and need advice on improving my GPA and finding motivation.
It sounds like you’re going through a really tough time, and it’s completely understandable to feel overwhelmed. First, I want to say that it’s great that you’re reaching out for advice and support. Here are some suggestions that might help you improve your situation:
Break Tasks Down: Sometimes, large assignments can feel daunting. Try breaking down your work into smaller, more manageable tasks. Set a timer for 15-20 minutes and work on one specific part of an assignment. You might find that once you get started, it’s easier to keep going.
Set Realistic Goals: Set small, achievable goals for yourself each day. Instead of focusing on the GPA, maybe aim to complete one assignment or study for a certain amount of time. Celebrate those small wins to help build momentum.
Create a Structured Schedule: Establish a daily routine that includes time for studying, but also time for self-care. Having a consistent schedule can help you stay focused and reduce anxiety about your workload.
Utilize Online Resources: Since you’re in a remote area, consider using online resources for help with your subjects. Websites like Khan Academy or Coursera can provide tutorials and lectures, and they might help clarify concepts that you find challenging.
Talk to Your Teachers: Don’t hesitate to reach out to your teachers for support. They can provide extensions or alternate assignments, and they may have additional resources to help you catch up.
Find Your Passion in History: Since history is your passion, try to engage with it outside of the classroom as well. Read historical books, watch documentaries, or listen to podcasts. This might rekindle your motivation for your studies and help you connect more deeply with the subject.
Focus on Mental Health: Make sure you’re taking care of your mental health. If you’re not already, consider speaking with a therapist or counselor who can help you work through your feelings and provide coping strategies.
Connect with Supportive People: It can be tough when friends are doing well, but lean on those who understand your struggles and can provide encouragement. It might also help to talk to someone who shares your passion for history — they could become a source of motivation.
Remember, It’s Okay to Struggle: Many people face challenges in school and beyond; it doesn’t define your worth or your potential. Just because your journey looks different from your friends’ doesn’t mean you can’t succeed in your own way.
Your goals are valid, and it’s okay to pursue what you’re passionate about. Remember that everyone’s path is unique, and challenges can often lead to growth. Don’t be afraid to seek out the help you need, and take small steps towards improvement. You’ve got this!