High School Roller Coaster: Stress vs Motivation

BY LIANN MELENDEZ-Staff Writer

Recently, WLHS shared a video that mentioned all the various ways a student can try to stay motivated in school. Though, surprisingly, their video was nothing like an off-brand Pinterest motivational board — telling students that if they follow their tips they will no doubt have a successful school year.

In fact, WLHS got straight to the point — or problem that is. Stress.

Like the video explained, stress, in any setting, for any reason, has been shown to greatly impact one’s ability to carry out tasks. Viewers are presented with a diagram that depicts how certain levels of stress can affect an individual’s work performance.

Now, when you look at the photograph above, what does the shape of the diagram remind you of?

I’ll tell you what it reminds me of — a roller coaster. Albeit a small and boring roller coaster — a roller coaster nonetheless.

When you think about it, a high schooler’s motivation works just the same as those thrilling rides — only with much less screaming and gearing.

Speaking from personal experience, I would always start the new school year, or new trimester, determined as ever to do better than before — to stay focused, stay timely, and stay productive.

Then, gradually I would start to become overwhelmed with the amount of work I have to deal with and soon enough I am too worn out to even care. Like, right now for instance, I am on a time crunch to get all of my assignments in on time and study as much as I can before finals come around.

Yet, I still can’t even get myself to do work before 6pm.

It’s important for students to be aware of their limits, they shouldn’t carry this mentality to push themselves too hard all the time in order to achieve an unattainable greatness.

Those who are constantly trying to exceed their goals and expectations without giving themselves a proper break to analyze and breathe are only running down the narrow path leading to a burnout.

Now, that does not mean that you should expect smooth sailing when striving to achieve your goals. If you don’t have the proper push, you won’t go anywhere — meaning, you need a little incentive to get to the top, like a roller coaster.

“The struggles, challenges, and obstacles that it takes to succeed in life is what makes success more valuable. Nothing great comes easy, and nothing easy can ever equate to greatness.”

― Edmond Mbiaka

Learn what is best for you and your education, don’t trade your mental health for straight A’s, accept that some things are out of your control and not everything can be easily obtained.

Still, it doesn’t hurt to try.