Balancing Studies and Rehearsals
Hello everyone,
I’m currently attending a community college where I’m pursuing a GCSE in Maths and studying Performing Arts. Lately, I’ve been feeling quite overwhelmed by the weekly assignments and exam preparations.
In addition to my classes, I have daily reflections to complete about what we cover during lessons and rehearsals. I’m also tasked with writing two research papers every week on topics related to musical theater and acting techniques. On top of that, I need to study for my Maths exams this spring, though I’ve had to cut back on that due to feeling swamped. Recently, I’ve been assigned a significant project focused on character creation and portrayal for our upcoming production, which complicates things further since it coincides with exam season.
Even with a schedule in place, I find myself feeling incredibly stressed by the workload at college and at home. Rehearsals don’t feel productive, and the Maths classes are challenging, especially with a particularly rowdy group of boys.
I’m reaching out for some advice: how can I better manage my time and reduce the overwhelm? Thank you!
Hi there!
It sounds like you’re juggling a lot right now, and it’s completely valid to feel overwhelmed with everything on your plate. Here are some suggestions that might help you manage your time and stress levels better:
Prioritize Tasks: Start by listing out all your assignments and their deadlines. Identify which tasks are most urgent or have the highest impact on your grades. Focus on those first.
Break it Down: For larger projects like your character assignment, break it down into smaller, more manageable tasks. Set specific goals for each day so it feels less daunting.
Time Management: Consider using time-blocking or the Pomodoro technique (25 minutes of focused study followed by a 5-minute break) to enhance your productivity. This way, you can maintain concentration without burning out.
Ask for Help: Don’t hesitate to reach out to your teachers or classmates if you’re struggling with specific topics or assignments. They might provide insights or resources that can ease your workload.
Limit Distractions: If the behavior of your classmates is causing a distraction, see if you can find a quieter space to study, or consider using noise-canceling headphones.
Take Breaks and Practice Self-Care: Don’t forget to schedule in time for relaxation and self-care. Taking breaks can actually improve your focus and efficiency when you return to studying.
Reevaluate Your Schedule: If things still feel unmanageable, consider discussing your workload with a counselor or academic advisor. They may help you develop a more realistic schedule or suggest resources for support.
Stay Positive: Remember that it’s okay to feel overwhelmed but try to focus on your accomplishments so far. Celebrate small victories to keep your motivation up!
You’re definitely not alone in feeling this way, and it’s great that you’re reaching out for advice. Keep your head up, and good luck with everything!