Procrastination, Friend Problems, and Unrequited Crushes – December Advice Column

Dear Emma and Chiara,

My friends are arguing, and I’m caught in the middle! I don’t want to pick sides because they’re both my friends, but they’re both being irrational. What should I do?

That’s a tough situation! I don’t blame you for not wanting to get involved. Social issues are sticky and can easily turn into fights. In your place, I’d recommend giving yourself some distance. Remind your friends that you care for them and value them, but getting caught in their arguments is emotionally draining.

Friend issues are a part of high school, and everybody goes through them eventually. Just keep in mind that the bases of most arguments are trivial, and it won’t matter at all in the future. If they can’t understand that and make peace, give yourself a breather! High school is already stressful enough – you don’t need to surround yourself with people that add to the chaos.

How do I stop procrastinating? I sit down to do my homework and before I know it it’s 11 o’clock and I haven’t done anything productive! Any advice?

Procrastination is a common issue every high school student deals with in their life, so you don’t need to feel lazy or dumb for struggling to get work done. After sitting in school for seven hours, it’s really difficult to concentrate for another few hours to do homework.

Work in a neat environment and distance yourself from things that can distract you, like your phone or a TV. Make a list of what you want to get done that night, and then cross things off as you finish them. Prioritize your work from most to least important. Your tasks will feel less daunting seeing it in an organized fashion, and it feels great crossing them off. Listening to good music while you work is also helpful – whether that’s classical music, pop, or rap, whatever gets you in the zone.

Everyone procrastinates sometimes! But the sooner you finish work, the more time you’ll have and the less stressed you’ll be.

My grades are starting to slip, and I’m beginning to freak out about it! I’m taking hard classes and my GPA is going downhill. I’m already really busy with sports and extracurricular activities, but college is going to notice my grades. What do I do?

Every high school student has been in your exact same position. Short answer – don’t worry too much about it. Everyone has a period of time where grades start to decrease, and that’s totally normal!

Try to figure out exactly what’s not working for you. Is your method of studying not helping when it comes to test day? Are the sources you’re using not making sense? There are always options, and ways to change the way you learn and study. If you’re not already, meet with your teachers! They can help you figure out a way to get back on track, and they’re always happy to help.

As for college, everything will work out! A test grade, midterm grade, or even the letter on your report card won’t entirely determine your future (although it really seems like that sometimes!). Try your best, challenge yourself, continue to do things you’re passionate about, and everything will be okay.

I am really into this guy, but I’m not sure if he likes me or not. I’ve sent some signals, but it doesn’t seem like he notices me at all. What am I doing wrong and what can I do for him to notice me and like me? I really like him.  

Unrequited crushes are so frustrating, and it’s understandable that you aren’t sure what to do. Don’t stress about this! Talk to him like any other friend, and if the feelings are there, they’ll be there. No need to go overboard, or try out all the tips and tricks listed in magazines. If the relationship is meant to be, it’ll happen. If not, it’s just high school. There’ll be so many great guys in your life!

Do you need advice? Click here to anonymously submit a question for a chance to be featured in next month’s edition! 

Disclaimer: Some submissions have been edited for grammar and clarity.