I'm always so stressed and I can't finish anything in time. It's really frustrating and I've asked my parents if a I could quit some of the activities to relieve some stress. They wouldn't let me. It's gonna sound ironic but I sometimes cry when I see how much work I have to get done. I go on the internet to calm down, but it just wastes some of my time. Any suggestions on how to relieve my stress? Thanks.
Answers (2)
Organisation is the answer. Step 1: stop flapping, it is OK and this is not the end of the world. You need to calm yourself down and approach this logically.
So, you need to make a list of all things you have to do, on which days of the week. Doesn't have to be a master-piece just a rough guide to work from, Do not miss anything out, put down everything that you can think of - you can always cross things out later.
Next you need paper large enough to create an event/daily planner that you can stick on the wall. It needs to be big enough to fit everything in and must be clear and easy to read.You don't want to end up with a planner full of illegible scribbled notes - we need to bring some order to the chaos. Clear and neat will help you feel calm and in control.
What it looks like is down to you. You should have days of the week which can be broken down into am/pm or into time slots (eg 5-7pm). Now start filling it out in day order first and order of priority. Colour code it - red for important stuff so it stands out and so on. Keep it uniform and make it big. Cramming everything onto a bit of A4 with microscopic writing is not what you are aiming for. Think big, clear, easy to read at a glance and idiot proof. This will take some time - don't start stressing about this - it is essential and must be done.
Put everything on your planner and do not forget breaks. You must have short breaks while working. Do not write down 3 hours maths followed by 2 hours French study without at least a 15 min break in between. Breaks are vital for food/dinner but also to allow you time to get up and stretch your legs.
When it is done, put it up and use it religiously. If you find that you have too much going on then when you tell Mum and Dad you can show them exactly the problem.