With so many students having part-time jobs, it is a wonder how we are not all taking naps in every class. Waking up in the morning for school is the absolute worst part of our days, and our assignments are piling up. Combined with the stressor of needing all of this work to be done before Christmas break (specifically, for seniors, the volunteer reflection project,) some students are facing overwhelming feelings of anxiety during the holiday season. Even a seemingly small task like doing laundry is enough to send stressed students over the edge.

Learning how to manage work and school schedules may seem impossible, but it can be done. Central’s guidance counselors contributed many tips and ideas to help manage the busy lives of Central students.

Chelsea Long suggested the use of daily planners or lists to keep track of multiple schedules and to view deadlines. Ms. Long also warned against sleep deprivation; a lack of sleep can lead to increased feelings of depression and anxiety. Working many days, or nights, a week can cause this lack of sleep, as well as poor nutrition. Take some time for self-care; remember to drink water, (you can set a reminder in your phone,) and go to sleep at a reasonable time. If you are working a closing shift at work, try to finish homework early-on, or during the school day.

“What’s stressing you and the things you have to do today aren’t always the same things,” said Long.

Seniors have an especially large amount of deadlines, including the several components of their senior projects.

“I take naps when I can during class, but the main change [in my schedule] is that I don’t procrastinate as much as I used to because the only other option is to get behind,” explained Senior Jazmynn Ball when asked about how she manages her work and school schedules.

For other students, the most difficult part of managing their life is meeting college-related deadlines.

“Making sure that I have my homework done is the most difficult thing about managing my schedule, but it’s mostly keeping up with my senior project and college-related things,” said Senior Dylan Muccino.

Regardless of how many ways a working student can tame their schedules, there will always be people criticizing the way they accomplish and meet their goals. There will always be those teachers that say, “I know you have at least one day off to do homework.” Personally, I have two jobs and I actually do not have much time to finish tasks outside of school. I usually do my homework in class, but filling out the FAFSA was a hassle. My mom’s schedule does not match mine, so it took a while to find time with her to finish it. However, there will always be time if you make it.

There are even apps made to remind busy people to take time to care for themselves. The app Plant Nanny is a cute, fun way to manage hydration levels, and the Calm app has improved my sleep at night. An old-fashioned food planner can be used to mind food intake and nutrition.

Whether students are working for extra spending cash, family needs or personal needs, it is always important to take care of school obligations, health and social needs as well. Balancing tasks takes time to master, but once it is figured out, at least some weight can be lifted off of our shoulders.