HOW TO LOCK IN
Yes, locking in is an absolutely essential skill for high school students. In fact, “I need to lock in” has been the catchphrase of every rising junior this summer when asked about the fast approaching school year. I recommend creating detailed schedules or to-do lists with tasks that need to be completed (essays, test prep, etc.) in order to plan out your work. To-do lists are also almost always guaranteed to reduce your stress about locking in; you get to visualize what you need to get done in how much time, and it often ends up being a lot less than you were expecting. That being said, don’t procrastinate on your homework — even if your to-do list is looking sparse. Try to get work done ahead of time rather than at the last minute in order to have your best work submitted. The biggest tip to avoid procrastination ahead of major assignments is to set clear boundaries for screen time. Put your phone on Do Not Disturb or leave it in a different room. Sometimes, I set Instagram detoxes for myself where I don’t open social media for a set amount of days when I’m particularly busy.
HOW TO MAKE FRIENDS
Making new friends is a universally uncomfortable experience, but I’m confident that with time and a little bit of vulnerability, you’ll be able to find your 3 AM bestie. Make the effort to talk to new people and get to know more about them. Go to the AAC during ACT or your free periods; everyone will be there socializing. Ultimately, making friends is about finding your people. You won’t like everyone, but there will always be someone at Lakeside that you can hang out with.
I’M SO STRESSED
Haha, me too. But seriously, having balance in life is one of the most important takeaways I’ve had from my past couple of years of high school. Take breaks from your work to reset your mind: go on a walk, drink some water, and PLEASE talk to your friends and family. Having fun never made anyone less locked in or smart or capable.
I DON’T WANT SUMMER TO BE OVER
I mean, that’s not really something I can give advice on in the column. I don’t want summer to be over, either. You have a couple of options here. Firstly, move to California or Hawaii where, as I understand, it’s summer every day. Alternatively, as I do, you could continue to live your daily school routine, spending every day until May complaining about the cold and wistfully thinking about lying on the field and sunbathing.
HOW TO BE NONCHALANT AND HAVE +10000 AURA
Being “nc” is kinda overrated. Like, yes, you can be chill and pretend like you don’t care about anything. But it’s much better to be chalant and passionate about what matters to you. Be happy, not nonchalant. Take time to scream about your favorite sports team or squeal with your friends about an accomplishment. As for the aura, don’t do anything stupid in order to get aura because it will likely backfire. Just be nice to others and put your best effort towards achieving your goals. Oh, and be funny! Funny people tend to have the most aura. Kindness, success, and humor is a guaranteed aura formula.
