Let’s be honest: being a sportsperson might make you one of the biggest heartthrobs in your school, but underneath the glamour, you know how tough it gets to balance both academics and sports.
Statistics say that college athletes invest almost 50 hours in sports, which can adversely impact their studies. If you or your child is one of them, don’t worry; there are various tips and tricks that can help balance these two worlds, and in this think-piece, we will discuss a few. Let’s go!
1. Draft a foolproof plan
Students who wish to balance both studies and sports are often confused about how much time they should allot to each of these, which ultimately makes them tired or uninterested in both. This can be easily navigated with the help of a well-researched POA or plan of action. Depending on your schedule, outline a plan on the number of hours you’ll need to do your homework on time and how much time you want to spend practicing sports.
For example, if your exams are knocking, then you must prioritize studies over sports. But if you have an important game right around the corner, you can finish your homework first and spend the rest of the day practicing for the big game.
2. Talk to your coach or teacher
If you’re not able to figure out a study-cum-sports schedule for yourself, it might help to talk to your coach or mentor. Coaches are often the biggest source of guidance and motivation for young students and athletes because they speak with expertise and personal experience. Many schools worldwide have launched special mentoring and counseling services for students who need someone to talk to.
Additionally, you can also consider joining online schools in Los Angeles, where the platform connects you with world-class professional coaches with experience in the athletics of your choice. They will personalize your study materials in a way that you can understand the sports while also focusing on academics!
Alternatively, you can also reach out to your favorite teacher and request a study schedule that will help you be up top in your class without any anxiety or stress!
3. Understand that you can’t have it all
Yes, you heard that right. No matter how much you deny it, it’s only a matter of time before you’ll have to accept it. At times, these two will stand against each other, and you’ll have to make the tough choice. If you try to balance both with equal vigor daily, you’ll soon burn out and give up both.
Instead, understand that no matter what you do, each day will have only 24 hours, and you might have to give up one to focus more on the other.
4. Treat time as your most precious jewel
Sure, every student needs to relax at least once during the day, and students who are serious about sports are sure to get tired after rigorous sessions.
However, time is the one thing you can never get back, so it’s important to use it wisely. Balance your rest with productivity, and ensure that every moment spent is contributing to your growth, whether academically, personally, or physically.
With the advent of so many social media platforms, it is easy to get trapped in mindless scrolling. But you must keep reminding yourself of the bigger goal and not get lost on the track. If required, you can also put up motivational posters or quotes in your room to help you stay focused.
5. Align tasks with your energy levels
Understand that no matter how much you want to work or play 30 hours a day, there are only 24 hours, and you’re a human being who requires a specific energy level to complete a task.
For example, after a lengthy and tiring practice session, don’t sit down and do your mathematics homework. Your already-tired brain will feel confused and burdened, which will affect your morale. Instead, do something less taxing, such as packing your lunchbox or taking your dog out for a walk.
If you have long school hours, tuition right after returning home is just not an option. So, consider joining online private schools where you can get coached by leading professionals according to your schedule. With a flexible schedule, you will feel refreshed and motivated to balance both academics and sports.
6. Lead a healthy life
Regular breaks and leisure activities will help you gain back the physical and mental energy that goes into balancing these two things throughout the day. Whether it’s reading, painting, partying, or just lying down, taking time to recharge is crucial for maintaining focus and overall well-being.
All that said and done, as an aspiring professional, you also need to be extremely disciplined about your diet and sleep. A balanced meal and sufficient sleep will give you the nutrition and restoration you need to keep your energy levels high and mind sharp,
Conclusion
Despite following these tips thoroughly, you may still feel drained, and that’s totally natural. Acknowledge it, accept it, and give yourself permission to rest before you get up to fight another day. However, if you constantly feel overwhelmed or exhausted, consider talking to a professional counselor at your school or neighborhood for useful advice.
