Summer vacation is slowly coming to an end, and for many of us, it’s time to get back into the school routine. To make the transition less abrupt, it’s a good idea to review your habits and goals before school starts. Good habits can help make school days calmer and easier. The most important thing is to find a balance between studying, rest, and free time.
Set up sleep mode
Before school starts, it’s a good idea to start going to bed a little earlier in the evenings so your body can get used to the school day routine. Getting enough sleep helps you concentrate better and learn more effectively in class, and be more productive throughout the day. When you’re tired, completing tasks takes much more time and energy. A good day starts with a good night’s sleep.
Set realistic goals for yourself
The new school year is a great time to set new goals. Think about what you’d like to improve this year. For example, you might want to get better grades in a certain subject or study more consistently. At the same time, don’t set too many goals at once, because that can create unnecessary extra stress. If something doesn’t go well right away, try again and move forward step by step.
Learn to Plan Your Time
At school, you might have a lot of homework, tests, and other tasks all at once. That’s why it’s a good idea to use a calendar, a notebook, or your phone to write down your most important tasks and deadlines. Break larger tasks into smaller parts to make them easier to complete. Also, make sure to set aside time to relax and spend time with friends.
Learn how to cope with school stress and don't be afraid to ask for help
Going to school and studying every day can be quite stressful. Taking breaks, getting some exercise, and spending time outdoors can help. Not all subjects may be equally easy for everyone to understand. If there’s something you don’t quite understand, don’t hesitate to ask your teacher or a classmate for help. Studying together can make a complicated topic much easier to understand. You should also ask for help if you’re having concerns about your classmates, your parents, or how you’re feeling. The sooner you ask for help, the easier it generally is to solve problems.
Find a hobby
School shouldn’t take up all your free time. Find an activity that you truly enjoy and are happy to do. A hobby helps you take a break from schoolwork and learn new skills. You can also make new friends and meet new people there. If you haven’t found a hobby yet, feel free to try out different activities. Many hobby schools offer several free trial sessions in September that you can check out. The Tartu Youth Work Center also hosts many exciting clubs and leisure activities.
You shouldn't be afraid of the start of the new school year. A good sleep routine, planning, hobbies, and good friends will help you cope better with school. Remember that if something goes wrong, you can always try again and ask for help. It’s human to make mistakes, and not everything has to go perfectly right away. Approach the new school year with a calm mindset, believe in yourself, and don’t forget to enjoy life. I wish you a successful and joyful new school year!
