I’m sad to say that summer has ended. In what seemed like about five minutes, the summer is over and it’s time for school to get started again. With a new school year comes new friends, new goals, new classes, and hopefully, a new you! Don’t fall back into your old bad habits this year. It’s time to make the changes you know need made and with it, make this school year the best one yet! Eliminate the stress and pressure, forget about anything that is putting you down, and follow each of these tips from a fellow student on how to have the best school year of your life! Let’s get started!

1.Don’t Procrastinate

It isn’t any coincidence that this is my number one tip. Take it from someone who doesn’t apply this like they should: 90% of my stress during the school year comes from consistent procrastination. You probably (like me) go in to every school year saying you’re going to change in this area but fail each year. Don’t let this year be the same. Get it done NOW and avoid the stress that comes LATER!

2.Read a Book

I know what you’re thinking. "When do you think I have time for that?" I don't. But it sure can be a nice way to put yourself to sleep each night when you can't seem to get tired, a way to unwind on the weekend, and a place to escape when your life gets to be too much. Go find a good book.

3.Learn How to Say “No”

Don't worry, I'm not about to give you the typical "peer-pressure-say-no-and-walk-away" speech that you've heard a thousand times. I'm taking a different route. What I mean, is don't feel obligated to do everything for everybody. When a teacher wants you to join the math club or the science fair but you know you won't have time, it's okay to say no. When your best friend wants you to audition for the big play with them, there's nothing wrong with saying you can't. I'm not saying be an introvert who doesn't do anything, but also don;t spread yourself to thin. Focus on a few of your favorites so you can perfect and enjoy those.

4.Get Involved

To balance out Tip #3, I want to encourage you do be as involved as you can. Like I said in the last tip, know your limits, but until you hit that limit, be as involved as you can be. It's a great way to make friends and discover your talents, and an overall fun time.

5.Make New Friends

Although it's great to really invest in a few close friends, don't be afraid to make some new friends, too. The people people you know and the more connections to areas you have, the better off you'll be. I'm not saying to hang out with them every weekend, but be friendly and find someone you can laugh with, help with homework on, and get to know.

6.Make Your Weekends Awesome

After a long week of school, there's nothing like a couple days off to get you refreshed. Since it only accounts for 2/7 of your week, you better make the most of each weekend. Take advantage of the time off. Hang out with friends and have a good time before school starts again on Monday.

7.Laugh A lot

Here's the thing: it's gonna get tough. There are going to be times you feel you can't do it. At some point, you're gonna feel so stressed you just want to quit. That's inevitable. But in the midst of it all, this is the most important thing: Don't forget to laugh. Have fun. Don't et too caught up in the stress. It's always turned out okay, and so will this.

There you have it! As the school year begins, I hope this helps you to make this one the best one yet! Have a great year!