Surpassing Senioritis

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With spring comes senioritis - a contagious condition that kills the motivation and attention span of previously productive twelfth graders. The struggle to keep up the rigorous pace of the last three and a half years can be daunting. The end is in sight and countdown apps provide daily reminders of just how many more wake-ups there are before never having to return to high school again. Yet, seniors must remember… their futures can still be altered by that final, looming high school report card. Here are a few tips for rediscovering that drive and initiative:

  • Defy Indifference: Despite what you’ve heard… senior grades matter. If you are attending a four-year college, your university expects you to maintain the same scores and academic rigor you demonstrated at the time of application. Worst case scenario? They can rescind your offer! Don’t panic. Just do your homework and study for exams. If you aren’t planning on jumping into a four-year college right now, you might still need that transcript for a future application or vocational program.

  • Motivation is Key: Motivation carries over from one area of life to another. The second semester of senior year is probably not when you decide to delve into academia. However, creating a goal outside of school – whether that be a fitness goal, financial goal, artistic endeavor, or other personal challenge – will likely keep you on track with your academics as well.

  • Put Away Procrastination: Thinking about doing work is often worse than doing the work itself. Set a timer to use the Pomodoro Method or implement my favorite productivity approach, Eat the Frog. Whatever way, just get it done.

  • Celebrate: You’ve worked so hard to get here. Plan ways to celebrate achieving this milestone: beach day, dnd party, concert, scavenger hunt, camping… Just ensure your reward is after you finish your task list.

  • Ask for Help: Still feeling slothy? Go see your favorite teacher/counselor/coach … or, more likely, ask Discord or Reddit. 

Remember, everyone struggles with motivation at some point... Just ensure you don’t become another victim of senioritis.