Feeling Overwhelmed by Expectations
Hey, I’m a high school senior (15-F) who’s recently been rumored to be the valedictorian of my class.
It all began when I scored the highest among all 10th graders at my school, and people started saying I’d be the valedictorian. At first, I thought it was just a joke and didn’t take it seriously. But as the second grading period ended, my grades improved, along with everyone else’s. I went from being at the top to ranking 5th in the school, with the four ahead of me from different sections. After the 3rd quarter, I’m now sitting around 3rd or 4th in GPA, which doesn’t bother me because I never expected to be valedictorian in the first place.
Then we had an assignment where we reflected on each of our classmates and wrote them personal letters. I received 41 letters, all incredibly positive, filled with congratulations, expressions of gratitude, and hopes for friendship. Out of those, 35 mentioned their congratulations, and 27 specifically referred to me as our valedictorian.
After reading those messages, I felt overwhelmed, pressured, and stressed.
I don’t want to let these people down.
I’m really confused about why I’m sharing this here. I guess I’m looking for validation, advice, or maybe even just someone who has gone through something similar to talk to.
It’s completely understandable to feel overwhelmed in your situation. The expectations of others can weigh heavily, especially when you’ve been put on a pedestal as a potential valedictorian. It’s great to hear that your classmates see you in such a positive light, but it can definitely add pressure to live up to that image.
First, it’s important to remember that your worth and identity are not solely tied to being valedictorian or having the highest GPA. Your friends and classmates appreciate you for who you are, not just for your academic achievements. It’s okay to focus on doing your best without feeling the need to meet everyone else’s expectations.
Here are a few things to consider:
Set Your Own Goals: Rather than focusing on what others expect of you, think about what you want to achieve. Setting personal goals can help redirect the pressure into something more manageable and rewarding.
Talk About It: If you’re feeling overwhelmed, it might help to share your feelings with a trusted teacher, counselor, or friend. They can offer support and maybe help you process these emotions.
Take Breaks: Make sure you’re taking time for yourself. Engage in activities that help you relax and recharge. Balance is key to maintaining your mental health.
Celebrate Your Achievements: Remember to acknowledge the hard work you’ve put in, regardless of rankings. Celebrate your progress and enjoy your final year of high school!
It’s Okay to Not Be Perfect: No one is perfect, and you don’t have to live up to every expectation. What matters is doing your best and being true to yourself.
You’re not alone in feeling this way, and seeking validation and advice is a great step. Many students experience similar pressures, and it’s okay to ask for help. You’ve got this!