As the school year begins, the excitement of new classes, friends, and opportunities can sometimes be overwhelming. With over 30% of American teens struggling with anxiety, this novelty can lead to additional stresses — even despite feeling excited. This is where healthy routines come into play. Routines can be essential for long-term success. 

At Bishop McLaughlin, we believe that a strong start sets the tone for our Hurricanes during the entire school year. Here are some tips to help students build healthy routines that lead to a successful 2024-2025 school year!

Prioritize Sleep

One of the most important factors in academic and personal success is getting enough sleep. Research consistently shows that students who get sufficient rest are more focused, retain information better, and have better overall health. Establish a regular bedtime routine that allows for at least 8-10 hours of sleep each night for older teens, and 9-12 hours for younger teens

A big reason most teens (and, let’s be honest, adults) don’t get good sleep is due to excessive screen time. Prioritizing sleep might mean setting a “screen curfew” where electronic devices are turned off an hour before bed to help wind down and prepare for restful sleep.

Organize Your Time

Time management is key to balancing academics, extracurricular activities, and personal life. But that can be hard when you’re a student feeling the pressure to do it all. There are some simple and effective ways to maximize your time. 

Start by creating a daily schedule that includes all your classes, study sessions, and activities. Using a planner or digital calendar can help you keep track of important dates and deadlines. 

Make sure to also schedule time for breaks and relaxation; overloading yourself can lead to burnout. Study techniques like Pomodoro actively build in breaks so you don’t burnout or lose interest in your area of focus. Remember, it’s about working smarter, not harder.

Fuel Your Body Right

A balanced diet is crucial for maintaining energy levels and concentration throughout the day. Start with a nutritious, protein-rich breakfast to kickstart your metabolism and keep you focused during morning classes. Incorporate a variety of fruits, vegetables, lean proteins, and whole grains into your meals. Staying hydrated is equally important! Keep a refillable water bottle with you throughout the day to stay refreshed and alert.

Set Realistic Goals

With so much to do at Bishop McLaughlin, it’s easy to set goals within a class, sport, or extracurricular! Plus, setting goals gives you a clear direction and something to strive for. At the beginning of the school year, take some time to set both academic and personal goals. Make sure these goals are specific, measurable, achievable, relevant, and time-bound (SMART). Whether it’s aiming for a certain GPA, joining a new club, or improving in a sport, having clear goals will keep you motivated and on track.

Practice Mindfulness

In the midst of busy schedules, it’s important to find time for mindfulness. Mindfulness practices, such as deep breathing, meditation, or simply taking a few minutes to reflect, can help reduce stress and improve focus. Incorporating these practices into your daily routine can help you stay calm and centered, even when the demands of school life become overwhelming.

Stay Connected

Building a strong support network is vital for a successful school year. Stay connected with friends, family, and teachers who can offer guidance and support. Don’t be afraid to ask for help when you need it—whether it’s academic assistance or just someone to talk to, having a support system can make all the difference.

By prioritizing sleep, organizing your time, fueling your body with the right nutrients, setting realistic goals, practicing mindfulness, and staying connected, you can build a foundation for a successful school year. At Bishop McLaughlin, we’re here to support you every step of the way. Let’s start strong and make this school year the best one yet!