The opinions expressed in this article are the author’s own and do not necessarily represent the views of The Prowler. 

As I sit down at the dinner table with my family, the first thing I say is, “I can’t wait to graduate.”

My parents roll their eyes and remind me how I should enjoy the next two years. I attempt to remind myself of the few classes and people I enjoy.

The thing is, no matter how hard I try, there always will be a mountain of work creeping up behind me at the end of the day.

I attempt to accept the fact that, for the next two years, I will not have control over my education or schedule, but it just doesn’t sit right with me. There’s something so beyond exhausting about going through an entire week filled with reminders and google calendar notifications, only to remember that I will not, in fact, be getting a break over the weekend.

I remind myself that the leadership roles I took on were a choice, and I do enjoy them despite making myself miserable throughout the entire process.

Every time I complain about high school, I’m reminded to “enjoy the best four years of my life.” It honestly feels invalidating to tell me this when I clearly am not enjoying my time.

I don’t understand why high school is so romanticized when, in reality, it’s a time of self discovery, insecurity, and mediocre experiences.

You cannot convince me that being overworked, mentally exhausted, and underappreciated is “the best time of my life.” 

The question I still ask myself is, “How do I combat this feeling?”

Is there anything I can do to avoid burning out half way through high school?

To be honest, I’ve definitely fallen into the trap of over-committing myself. I spend my lunches and early mornings working just so I can barely manage all my extra curricular activities and school work. 

I think the best thing we can do is pursue our passions. Ask ourselves, “Do I actually like this activity or am I just doing it because it ‘looks good’ to colleges?”

We don’t need to be the president of every single club to get into college. I promise you, it is not worth all of the stress.

It’s important to learn how to balance school, work, and free time for our overall well being instead of suffering every day.

If only I could take my own advice.