How to Set Yourself Up for Success This School Year
The start of a new school year always feels like a fresh slate—new notebooks, new stationery, and a chance to reinvent yourself. Whether you’re excited, nervous, or somewhere in between, setting yourself up for success from day one can make all the difference. Here’s how to make this school year your best one yet…
1. Set Clear Goals
You’ve probably heard this one a million times, but it’s true—setting goals gives you something to work towards. Whether it’s getting better grades in a specific subject, making new friends, or joining a new club, having goals can keep you focused and motivated.
Tip: Break them down into mini-goals. Want to improve your maths grade? Maybe your mini-goals could be to practice for 20 minutes a day or ask for help when you’re stuck. These bite-sized tasks will make your big goals feel less overwhelming.
2. Get Organised Early
There’s no better feeling than starting the year with everything in place. Whether you’re a digital girlie who loves a Google Calendar, or you prefer to write everything down in a planner, having a system to keep track of assignments, study times, and social events is key.
Pro Tip: Colour-code your subjects and activities. It might seem extra, but it really helps with staying organised and feeling in control.
3. Create a Study Space That Works for You
Whether you like to study at a desk, on your bed, or even in the local library, having a dedicated space for schoolwork helps your brain switch into ‘study mode’. Keep it tidy, add some cute stationery, and make sure it’s well-lit. You’ll find it so much easier to focus when your space feels good.
Bonus: Having some noise-cancelling headphones or a calming playlist can also help block out distractions.
4. Prioritise Self-Care
It’s easy to get caught up in the school-year hustle, but looking after yourself is just as important as studying. Make sure you’re getting enough sleep (seriously, those 3 am TikTok scrolls won’t do you any favours), eating well, and taking breaks.
Remember: Your mental health matters! If you’re feeling overwhelmed, talk to someone—whether it’s a friend, family member, or a teacher. You don’t have to do it all alone.
5. Use Your Resources
Most schools have amazing resources that you should totally take advantage of—whether that’s a guidance counsellor, after-school study sessions, or clubs and societies. Not only will they help you succeed academically, but they’re also great for meeting new people and finding balance in your school life.
6. Find a Balance
School is important, but so is living your life outside of it. Make time for your friends, hobbies, and everything else that makes you happy. Finding that balance will make it easier to stay motivated during school, and it’ll keep you from burning out.
Tip: Try using the “80/20 rule”—spend 80% of your time working hard, and give yourself 20% to chill out. It’s a formula that works!
7. Be Kind to Yourself
Not every day is going to be perfect, and that’s okay. Some days you’ll smash your goals, and other days you might just want to curl up and watch Netflix. Don’t be too hard on yourself if things don’t go as planned—tomorrow is a new day, and you can always try again.