As the fourth quarter of their final year of high school begins, many seniors find themselves battling with “senioritis,” which is the sluggish, unmotivated feeling that makes it harder to focus on school. With graduation in sight, it is tempting to slack off, but staying engaged can help to end high school and prepare for what’s next.
It is easy to lose motivation when the finish line feels close yet far away. By focusing on making and accomplishing smaller, more manageable goals, overwhelming tasks will seem easier. These goals could include turning in assignments on time, maintaining a certain GPA or simply coming to class each day. Checking off these goals will provide a sense of accomplishment and boost motivation to continue working hard.
“My biggest piece of advice is to try to never skip,” said senior Stephanie Baiza. “When I start skipping it becomes really easy to stop showing up to class, so I try to avoid it.”
Sticking to a routine is another good way to combat senioritis. By having more structure with a daily schedule, it will be easier to avoid the “I will do it later” mindset. Set aside time each day for schoolwork but also schedule breaks and rewards to avoid burning out completely.
“I try to prioritize my assignments and do the most important ones first,” said senior Grace Tommasini. “Then, by the time I am tired of doing homework and lose motivation, I have already finished my biggest projects.”
If grades aren’t enough motivation to keep working hard, focus on other incentives. Incentives could include keeping the respect of teachers and classmates, avoiding stress that would come later from slacking off or maintaining scholarships or college acceptances.
Engaging in extracurricular activities, attending school events and spending time with classmates can help keep school exciting. It is important to remember that there are only a few months left to create some final high school memories, so this time needs to be taken advantage of.
“I have a lot of friends that are younger than me and knowing that I will see them at school every day motivates me to come more regularly,” said senior Kylie Loucks.
If studying feels repetitive, change things up. Try studying in a new location, using flashcards, making a game out of it or studying with friends. Keeping things fresh can make schoolwork feel less like a chore.
Lack of motivation often comes from exhaustion. Prioritize sleep, eat nutritious foods and exercise regularly to keep energy levels high. Feeling good physically can make a big difference in staying mentally sharp.
Whether the next phase of life is going to college, joining the workforce or taking another path, it is important to remember all the hard work that has been done in the past four years. The habits that have been built in high school will carry into the future, so finish strong and leave high school with no regrets.
Senioritis is real, but it doesn’t have to take over. Stay focused, stay involved and enjoy these final months. It will all be worth it in May when high school finally ends.
