Senior Discovers His Last Bit of Motivation Slips Away
As the title suggests, I’m a senior in Italy, and while I’ve had a solid high school experience—serving as student council president for two years and maintaining straight A’s for the other two—my enthusiasm for school has been dwindling since last year.
Attending a scientific high school, I’ve come to terms with the fact that my future lies in legal studies, but life has a strange way of unfolding. I have a myriad of hobbies that fuel my desire to wake up each day. I love reading and surprisingly enjoy self-directed study. I dive into topics that interest me, focusing intently to absorb and retain knowledge.
However, the Italian high school system overwhelms me with a heavy workload, forcing me to juggle too many subjects at once. Much of what we’re taught feels pointless—once the test is over, we discard the material as if it never mattered. The only enjoyable part is leaving school behind.
I know this sentiment is common among many students, but I can’t help but reminisce about the passion I felt in my earlier years. Now, my grades are plummeting, and it feels like there’s no end in sight.
I’ve been in therapy for a year, and it’s become clear that school is a major roadblock in my life. I believe I have the potential to excel, but this environment is draining me. Every time I attempt to build discipline, the overwhelming demands make it impossible to sustain. I do find ways to be disciplined in other areas of my life, but school is a struggle.
Sorry for the venting—I just needed to express this. If anyone has any advice on how to navigate these last three months, I would really appreciate it. I’m not concerned about college, but I don’t want my high school experience to end on such a low note.
It sounds like you’re going through a tough time, and it’s completely understandable to feel frustration in a system that doesn’t align with your interests or passions. It’s great that you recognize what energizes you—your hobbies, your independent study habits, and your past successes.
Given that you only have a few months left, it might help to focus on that finite timeline. Here are a few suggestions you might find helpful:
Set Small, Achievable Goals: Instead of thinking about everything you have to do, break it down into smaller tasks. Set daily or weekly goals for subjects or assignments that are manageable and make it easier to track your progress without feeling overwhelmed.
Prioritize Your Interests: If you have subjects or assignments that interest you even a little, focus more energy on those while allowing yourself to step back from others that feel pointless for the moment.
Use Your Hobbies as Motivation: Reward yourself for completing tasks by indulging in your hobbies. For example, promise yourself some reading time or a fun activity after finishing an assignment.
Connect with Classmates: Sometimes, forming study groups or collaborating with peers can make the experience more bearable. You might find motivation and support from others who feel similarly.
Talk to Your Teachers: If possible, discuss your feelings with teachers or school counselors. They may provide you with support or alternative assignments that could rekindle your interest.
Mindfulness and Self-Care: Don’t underestimate the importance of taking care of your mental health. Make sure to carve out time for relaxation and self-care amidst the stress of school.
Stay Future-Focused: Remind yourself that this is just a stepping stone to where you want to go. Keeping your eyes on the bigger picture may help you get through these last months.
Reflect on Your Achievements: Take stock of what you have learned and accomplished throughout your high school years. Celebrate the strengths and skills you’ve gained, even if they don’t directly relate to your future studies.
It’s tough right now, but remember: you’re not alone in this experience, and it’s okay to feel this way. Keep pushing through these last few months, and soon you’ll be able to focus on the paths that truly interest you. You’ve got this!