4 answers
Ania
Student
Roseau, Minnesota
3
Questions
Updated
693 views
How can I stay motivated to do my school work?
I am a high school student, currently a sophomore, and I have been struggling to keep up with my school work. I also feel like I am not trying my hardest. What are some things that I can do to help me keep up on my work while also balancing sports, family time, and me soon getting a job? How can I stay motivated to try my best and put in effort?
Login to comment
4 answers
Vianne Phan
Youth Development Teacher
316
Answers
San Diego, California
Updated
Vianne’s Answer
It sounds like you have a lot going on, and feeling like you're not doing your best can be tough. Balancing school, sports, family, and maybe a job is a lot for anyone. It's not about lacking care or motivation—you're just really busy. The fact that you're concerned shows you care a lot.
To make things easier, try to lower the pressure and focus on small, steady efforts instead of perfection. On hectic days, doing just one assignment or studying for 20 minutes is enough. Create a simple routine that works for your real life, not an ideal one. Even setting aside a little time after practice for one task can keep you on track without wearing you out. Remember, it's okay to change your expectations as your schedule changes, especially if you start working.
To make things easier, try to lower the pressure and focus on small, steady efforts instead of perfection. On hectic days, doing just one assignment or studying for 20 minutes is enough. Create a simple routine that works for your real life, not an ideal one. Even setting aside a little time after practice for one task can keep you on track without wearing you out. Remember, it's okay to change your expectations as your schedule changes, especially if you start working.
Rebecca Tang
Banking
2631
Answers
Hong Kong
Updated
Rebecca’s Answer
Thank you for your question. The most important to keep work life balance so that you can keep motivated. Firstly, you can identify a time management tool that suitable to you, e.g. MS Outlook, Google Calendar, Phone Calendar, etc.
Below are my suggestions :
1. Put down the time you need attend classes
2. Assign some time everyday on your project & assignment. Review the material covered in the class on the day. If you have any question, you can ask the teacher on the next school day.
3. Allocate you need to do your sports practise
4. Make sure you have enough time to sleep
5. You can allocate some time for your leisure and friend & family gatherings
Hope this helps! Good Luck!
May Almighty God bless you!
Below are my suggestions :
1. Put down the time you need attend classes
2. Assign some time everyday on your project & assignment. Review the material covered in the class on the day. If you have any question, you can ask the teacher on the next school day.
3. Allocate you need to do your sports practise
4. Make sure you have enough time to sleep
5. You can allocate some time for your leisure and friend & family gatherings
Hope this helps! Good Luck!
May Almighty God bless you!
Siva Kann
VP of Products & Technology
64
Answers
Cincinnati, Ohio
Updated
Siva’s Answer
I like Vianne’s answer — especially the focus on small, consistent effort.
I’ll add two things that helped me:
1. Build a simple routine around your priorities. Plan your day realistically. Even if you hit 50–70% of your plan, that’s a win. Consistency matters more than getting it right.
2. Create your own reward system. Motivation doesn’t just show up, you have to build them based on what works for you. For me, even small things like checking off tasks or hearing that “done” chime from my to-do list feels rewarding. You can also give yourself something you enjoy after finishing key tasks.
Try to do a little bitter every day.
Wish you the best!
I’ll add two things that helped me:
1. Build a simple routine around your priorities. Plan your day realistically. Even if you hit 50–70% of your plan, that’s a win. Consistency matters more than getting it right.
2. Create your own reward system. Motivation doesn’t just show up, you have to build them based on what works for you. For me, even small things like checking off tasks or hearing that “done” chime from my to-do list feels rewarding. You can also give yourself something you enjoy after finishing key tasks.
Try to do a little bitter every day.
Wish you the best!
I'm glad the answer helped!
Siva Kann
Martina Hayes
Project Manager
44
Answers
Chicago, Illinois
Updated
Martina’s Answer
Hey Ania, keep your motivation up at school by setting clear goals. Break your tasks into smaller steps, make a comfy study space, and try to link what you're learning to things you like and rewards you enjoy.