5 Ways to Make School More Bearable
So I recently finished school for the year (in New Zealand it's summer at the moment) and it got me reflecting on some of the things that made a noticeable difference in my mood during the school year. For lots of people school isn't actually that bad - you get to see all your friends and it's a lot better than having to work every day. But if you, like me, sometimes have those days when you wish your science teacher would disappear into a void so you can listen to Mika in peace, here are some ways to spruce up your mood.
1. Ditch Your Boring Backpack
If you're carrying your bag around all day then why not make it cute as well as useful? Bright colours are especially good at making things more cheerful, so look out for fun, colourful prints that will ideally go with most outfits. Mixing and matching brights and patterns is trendy at the moment though, so don't worry too much about clashing with your clothes.
It can be hard to find backpacks that aren't boring, since the focus is often primarily on durability. If you're not carrying around too much then try buying a satchel instead! It's worth investing in a good quality one so that you'll get lots of use out of it, and make sure your books will all fit first. Also make sure it's durable enough to last your active school lifestyle - don't make your choice based solely on looks.
If satchels aren't your thing but you're having no luck finding a backpack you like, it's worth taking a look at some of the online stores that stock stationary too. Urban Outfitters and Asos are my personal favourites, plus they offer free shipping for most orders. Just make sure to check the dimensions of your bag before you buy it! There's nothing worse than having a cute bag that you can't fit anything in! Here are a few of my suggestions if you're stuck for ideas:
Finally, treat shopping for a bag like finding a boy/girlfriend... Make sure it's going to last more than just short-term, and don't forget to look inside as well as outside in case there isn't enough room for everything you need!
2. Make People Around You Feel Happy Too
Make a promise to yourself to do one little thing every day that makes some one smile. For me, it's just to compliment someone on something they're wearing or doing, or even just saying "you look cute today!"
It might sound superficial, but it really does boost a person's confidence. Make what you say genuine though, so if you like someone's shirt then just tell them! I have a friend that I notice makes me feel great when I'm around her, because she always tells me when she likes something I'm wearing, or the way I've got my hair etc. It definitely puts a spring in my step!
Instead or compliments you could try baking things for your friends or teachers on holidays, congratulating people when they make achievements, or just smiling at someone who looks sad in the hallway.
3. Actually Do Your Homework On Time
I can't really help you with this, and to be honest I do it a lot less than I should, too. But it definitely makes a big difference to your mood if you can avoid the stress of an imposing deadline as much as possible. To add on to that, I would recommend trying to get as much sleep as possible instead of going to bed ridiculously late. It's not homework related, but it's another thing we're all guilty of. If you have trouble putting down your phone or favourite Robert Patterson book then leave it upstairs.
4. Find Something Other Than Sandwiches For Lunch
You could try switching this with breakfast, but I find that I'm too busy trying (and failing) not to miss the bus in the mornings that I don't have time for more than a bite of toast. With lunch though, you could try making all sorts of yummy food the night before. This means you don't have to put up with boring sandwiches every single day, and you can have something different once or twice a week. Pizza is popular with my friends, since they often steal it off me...
5. Download New Songs On Your MP3
Having a new summer song to listen to on the bus to school can cheer you up so much, and sometimes all it takes is an upbeat track to put you in a good head space for a double-period maths class early in the morning. My favourites at the moment would have to be Clara van Wel's new album and Taylor Swift's Sweeter Than Fiction..
