How to Balance your Plate
September 29th, 2025
Writer:Goldie Abrahams
Editor: Sophia Wohl
It is without a doubt, evident, that college and high school are vastly different. Waking up before the sun, seven days a week, and coming straight home past a typical lunch break was the routine. What does one do now that they have class at various times each day of the week? What does one do if they have an exam, but there is a social event the night before, the one you just can’t miss.
Straightening out your priorities can be confusing; keeping track of what you need to do for school is most important. With the help of check lists and calendars you’ll be able to visually see what has to get done and at what date, properly setting aside the appropriate time for yourself to complete all assignments.
It is common for one to overwork themselves to the point of burning out. Burning out can happen when you take on more than you can handle. Some people believe that they can take on the world at once, but in reality no one can. We must normalize the concept of taking breaks and time for ourselves; the more you prioritize yourself, and focus on what you need to do for YOU, the quicker you will feel accomplished. If you’re studying for a big exam, make sure you’re taking enough breaks and treating yourself. Sometimes resting, and self care are not the norm, and that is something as a society that we must work on. It is more than acceptable for one to have different priorities than others around them.
There is, of course, an aspect of competition, the sense of needing to do what everyone else is doing. However, at the end of the day it is your life, and what works best for you is what will make you the happiest. Balancing your plate is not a simple task. Everyone struggles with organizing their schedule, for themselves, around others, and juggling the idea of what would please others. The second you change your mindset and start putting what you need to do first is when you’ll realize how much better you feel, knowing you’re doing something for yourself, rather than others. Although repetitive, making check lists and creating calendars of what needs to be accomplished is such a simple task that will truly set the tone and create an impact. I am a visual person, and if I saw exactly what was on my “plate” life would be a whole lot simpler.
I know it is tough to see those around you doing things that may be restrictive, but instilling you've created the perfect balanced meal, or in your case check list, is vital.
