From a Teen’s Perspective: Fighting senioritis

Seniors are officially in the home stretch of high school. Prom, finals, AP exams, and more end-of-year events are rapidly approaching. Graduation is mere months away, and the shift to post-secondary life finally feels real.

With the approach of freedom comes a restless urgency to leave, often called “senioritis” and characterized by a general disengagement in school. However, it’s not time to completely tap out just yet.

As someone with a severe case of senioritis, here are my three tips for battling it in the final months of the school year.

1. Set small goals: Looking at big projects and long timelines can feel discouraging if you’re about to leave high school. Break them up into little tasks and time segments so they’re easier to digest. If you consistently complete these tasks you’ll gain boosts of motivation that can propel you from one to the next, which will lessen your feelings of procrastination and help you tackle your work earlier and more efficiently.

2. Adjust your motivation: Up until now, many of us have worked hard in school because we have grades, college admissions, and other academic goals weighing on our shoulders. Without these pressures, it’s hard to incentivize yourself to stay invested in school. The key is to find new incentives. For example, I stay invested in high school journalism because I recognize our positive impact on the community. In English, I remain focused because I love the feeling of accomplishment that comes with finishing a book.

3. Stay mindful: Seniors are looking towards the future as it’s so full of independence and new experiences, causing us to overlook the present. However, we should celebrate the moments of high school we have left. From exciting dances to boring classes, you’ll still look back on high school years from now, so don’t forget to make the most of these final months.

For most teenagers, senioritis is inevitable. For many like me, it’s already taken hold. Senioritis is a part of the high school experience and in one way beneficial because it hypes us up for our post-secondary lives and the responsibilities that come with them. However, it’s important to moderate seniorites to remain engaged in school, even to a lesser extent.

I wish all my fellow seniors the best of luck as the year winds down. I hope everyone will fondly remember parts of high school yet also look forward to their bright futures ahead!

Got any topics you want me to cover? Email dylanclarklanier@gmail.com with your requests!

Dylan Lanier is a senior at Menlo-Atherton High School; his column appears weekly.

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