21 Jun 2018

You’re thinking about trials. You’re thinking about your Modern History assignment. You’re thinking if six ciders is going to be enough for the 18th this weekend. You’re thinking about whether or not the past 13 years of schooling is all going to amount to nothing.

First off, chill, you’re going to be okay.

1. Take a deep breath

If you’re reading this, chances are you’re a self-diagnosed over-thinker. Good for you! Thinking is good! But knowing when your thinking is becoming irrational is also important. Stop for a few seconds, take a deep breath and then you can carry on reading this article.

2. Remind yourself that the overwhelming importance of an ATAR is a myth

I remember six months ago, anxiously waiting to find out my ATAR. In just six months, I’ve almost completely forgotten about the process that consumed my life for a year. You’ve heard this a million times, ‘the ATAR opens up more pathways’, and whilst there’s some truth to that, the pathways that open just from not being in school match anything the ATAR has to offer.

Keep reminding yourself that at the end of the day, your final exams are just a tiny slither of your life. If you put your mind to something that you’re passionate about, ATAR or not, you will make it happen. When I was told this in school, I honestly didn’t believe it, but the power in working hard for something you feel strongly about, whilst not having the pressure of school is wild.

3. Remember you have time to make mistakes

Our generation has taught ourselves that mistakes equal failure and that if we’re not at the pinnacle of success as a 20-something, we’ve screwed up somewhere. Don’t get caught up in this type of overthinking! Don’t discredit your mistakes; acknowledge them and learn. No one’s going to care about your English half-yearly assessment mark. No one’s going to care if you drop out of university after deciding it’s not for you. You’re not going to believe this last one, but eventually, no one’s going to care about your ATAR.

4. Look for options your career advisor doesn’t tell you about

Your school has put into your head that your professional life is being timed, and that the longer you wait for uni, the less chance you have at success. Once you realise this is wrong and that not jumping straight into study can be a bloody good option, all your doors completely open.

Thought about travelling and partying all through Asia? Talk to a travel agent. Do you want to volunteer somewhere? Research organisations. Thought about writing? Pitch stories or articles to websites you like (like us). Want to get better at surfing? Jump in the water and scream cowabunga to your heart’s content.

You have time to be free from structure and control for just a little bit before you jump into wherever your life takes you, so take advantage of it! Save some money. Have some fun. Make some questionable choices. You’re young and the world is yours.

5. Sorry, but seriously, stop overthinking

This is an important year, and what happens next is going to be exciting, whatever it may be. But you have to stop sweating the small stuff. The things that you’re worrying and spending time thinking about the most right now are going to be forgotten before you know it. Take time for yourself. Find things that relieve stress. Nap to your hearts content. Do whatever you have to do.

Finishing school is a celebration, but once you get out that’s when the real after-party truly starts.

And remember, you’re going to be okay.