Dear XYZ,
Question: I feel like I don’t ever have time to do anything except work, school, and chores. I don’t want my high school years before college to be like this. Do you have any advice for me?
X’s Response: I will start this out by saying school can be very difficult for everyone. You are not alone. You can always try reaching out to others who may feel the same and see what they do. Another solution is to make an organized plan with time slots for each of your responsibilities and leave some time for relaxing or fun activities. I also suggest that you play your favorite music or have a show on in the background if the work you are doing doesn’t require much concentration.
Dear XYZ,
Question: My parents are really strict and they never let me go out with my friends. I always feel left out because of it. How can I convince them to let me do fun things sometimes?
Y’s Response: Parents can be strict because they want you to be safe or need you to be focused on other priorities. You need to explain to them that these are the last few years you have the freedom to find yourself through your experiences and challenges. In other words, this is also a priority. If they absolutely won’t let you out, maybe they will let you hang out at school or right after school somewhere close by. Another idea is your parents allowing friends to come over to your place. Once your parents meet your friends and see how awesome they are, then they will hopefully loosen up to the idea of you having a little more freedom.
Dear XYZ,
Question: I feel anxious about the future, like will I get into a good college and then get a good job? There are so many options and I don’t know how to choose what’s right for my future. Am I just thinking too much?
Z’s Response: I also feel this way frequently and when I do, I remember that everyone was once in my position but found their path, just like you will. Take deep breaths and enjoy your youth. You don’t have to know all the answers now, but you could develop a passion or start a list of interesting jobs you might like to pursue. Don’t worry too much about what will happen. The important thing right now is to focus on school, get the best grades you can, and also start noticing what it is that makes you feel most alive. Those are the things you need to keep doing, and eventually, they will lead you to what you’re meant to do.