By Cheryl Mattox Berry
The start of the new school year is kind of like the start of a new calendar year, replete with promises and goals. Hopefully, you’ve thought about what you want to achieve during the 2013-2014 school year. If not, take a few minutes or longer to jot down some things.
Maintaining or raising your GPA should be first on the list. Now, think about your classes. Are they too easy? If so, maybe it’s time to step it up a notch by taking an advanced class. It will challenge you in ways you never expected.
Ask your guidance counselor for help in selecting a class. Be prepared for a lot of homework, projects and research papers. The extra work will prepare you for college.
Next, choose extracurricular activities. What are you dying to do this year? There’s nothing holding you back, so go ahead and audition for a play, write a song or try out for the team. You’ll never know if you can do something well unless you actually do it.
Before you move forward, though, make sure you’re prepared. That means practice, which requires discipline. Don’t give up if things don’t come easy. Some people are naturally gifted; others must work hard at being good.
Finally, decide what you won’t tolerate this year. If social media drama wore you out last year, disconnect when you see things heating up. If gossip was a time thief, don’t contribute to the rumor mill or tolerate others caught up in idle chatter. If you’ve outgrown a BFF, gradually stop calling and hanging out together. Her feelings might be hurt, but she’ll get the message.
This year, you’re going to be in charge of your life, not someone or something else. Choose the things that you want to do and those that give you the greatest pleasure and benefit. Good luck in the new school year!