Keeping things in perspective is so important in managing stress. Performance in Year 12 measures your ability to learn effectively and examine well, it does not entirely control your future success or happiness. However, when completing assessments and long-term commitments, remind yourself of your goals and reasons for accomplishing these milestones – you are at a point in your lives where you need to engage and stay on top of your work to maximize your opportunity to do well. It is never too late or too early to correct slipups and conquer your learning! Bear in mind that during Year 12 you will gain skills to carry through university and your careers. Stress is a feeling you will frequently encounter; the trick is learning how to manage it.
Balancing your study and sleep is integral to you achieving your goals and raise your marks! Here is an unbeatable equation for you:
Quality sleep = recover + recharge + concentrate + high energy = HAPPY YOU
We all know the feeling of waking up with sore eyes and an irritability you can’t shake after 5 hours of sleep; if you are experiencing this regularly during Year 12 you will make it difficult for yourself to reach your full potential. Drinking water instead of coffee, relaxing before bed and getting active will help you get some quality rest. Studying smart by removing distractions like your phone and social media will help you feel satisfied with study.
It is so important to think about your studies during Year 12 in coherence with yourself as an individual. What I mean by this is making sure that you and your support system (which may include your family, friends and tutors) are nurturing your overall growth. Aspects of your life such as health, nutrition, sleep, confidence, well-being and exercise all tie in with your stress levels throughout the entire year. Your mind and body are closely connected, so looking after your body has huge benefits for your concerns, doubts and successes. Keeping moving with fun activities like sport, dance, or walking increase oxygen to your brain improving performance, and will reduce tension from school.
It’s also essential to remember that a little bit of stress is beneficial in keeping driven and inspired all the way through. However, if you find your stress levels are getting to a point where you are unable to function as you usually do, or that there is a decline in your performance, here are some little strategies that might help you get back on track:
- Relaxation – try yoga, going on walks with family, meditation, keeping a journal, or apps like sleep cycle or smiling mind
- Time management - write everything you have to do down (sacs, homework, parties, anything) and prioritise! You will save yourself breakdowns by quickly checking what’s on for the week
- Connecting with others - talk about your worries, laugh, be social!
- Be kind to yourself – if you didn’t go as well as you’d hoped in a SAC, don’t freak out! It will give you an idea of what you need to work on for the exam (you’ll be able to write essays in your sleep by then)
By Hermione
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