Me-Time: Advice for Students on How to Balance Life by Madison

Me-Time: Advice for Students on How to Balance Life by Madison - April 2016 Scholarship Essay

The typical advice usually given to young students is to stay in school, focus on classes, follow your dreams, get good grades, and join everything you can to ensure you are engaged and involved in school as possible. However, based on what I know now, I would offer a different piece of advice: do not forget about yourself in the process of growing and learning.
Growing up, I was pushed by family to get good grades, join clubs, play sports, and volunteer whenever possible. My friends and classmates were encouraged to do the same, and from elementary school up to the ending years of high school, students were encourages and often pushed to join extra-curricular activities, be on a sports team, and stay focused on school. We were all trained to then push ourselves to these limits of perfection which were impossible to achieve. It was a silent competition of who could get the best grades, be the captain of multiple sports teams, or be in the most clubs. Conversations often included how “busy” or “stressed” we were from everything we put on out plates as students. Looking back, however, I wish I had taken more time to focus on myself.
While I am not denying good grades, sports, clubs, extra and co-curricular activities, and volunteering is beneficial and important to the development of students, it is not the only thing that should be emphasized. As I have grown up and become independent in my studies, I have learned that working on time-management to have work time and “me time” is one of the most important aspects in being successful and happy.
In 2016, the stigma of mental illness is beginning to be broken by social media, campus groups and more education. However, I believe young students should also be taught the importance of their mental health. Just like hurting your arm playing baseball or making sure you do not eat too many sweets, taking time for mental health is important in your overall well-being. When you are pushed to your limits every day, there is a chance you will burn out and all your hard work will go to waste. My greatest piece of advice for younger students is to begin to learn how to manage your time to be able to focus on things you love to do to give yourself a break from the pressure to be perfect. While growing and learning, take the time to focus on things you love to do. Spend time with friends, go for a walk, or just read your favorite book. Life is constantly moving, and the only person you will always be around is yourself. Therefore, take time to love yourself and give your mind a break.