Let’s be honest, getting through life can be difficult. Whether it’s managing time to study, trying to find jobs, figuring out what you want to do in your life, or stressing over little things in life, all of these things can add up. Being a student athlete has allowed me to realize how precious time can be.  Getting home late from extracurricular activities and doing homework on top of it can be extremely exhausting. In order to get through our life everyday, we need to spend each second wisely. This can include taking breaks everyday and staying in the present moment.

As we get older, more responsibilities begin to pile up. Completing your homework, studying for that exam, washing the dishes, fixing your car, etc. You wake up in the morning  and the next second you’re in your first class of the day. There’s only so little time in the day.  Yet, we’re expected to complete all these responsibilities and wake up the next day to do it all over again. It is important to always stay in the present moment, and not worry about things in the future. Taking it by the moment will help you be present in your life. Instead of wasting your time worrying about past events, live in the moment!

A common misconception most people assume is that taking breaks is a waste of time and that we need to be doing something productive 24/7. However, some may not understand that you need a break. Doing something you enjoy or simply resting your body is crucial for everyone. Sometimes, all the responsibilities you have in your life pile up super high, that you forget to take a break. As a student, I have learned that it’s alright to take multiple breaks a day. For example, I take naps, call my friends, watch shows, and hangout with my family. This helps ease my mind and clears out all the stress piling in my head. Without any breaks, your brain will not be able to process very quickly and can cause even more stress. 

I like to remind myself everyday to go with the flow and live in the moment because if you don’t appreciate the present, you may regret it in the future. Being a teenager especially is difficult nowadays, more competition and responsibilities arise. Don’t burn yourself out, there’s only so much you already have on your plate. Go outside, talk to your friends, or maybe spend time with your loved ones before it’s too late. You’re only a teenager once in your life, so make it count.