it is okay to say no.

During my freshman year of high school, I was participating in many clubs and after school activities. Truth be told, I felt overwhelmed by all of the extracurriculars that I was taking on. Slowly, over the following three years, I dropped the activities that I didn't find as important or interesting to me. Those decisions massively helped my mental health and allowed me to focus more on academics and spending time with myself.

However, recently, when applying to colleges and scholarships, I felt like I was lacking in the activities department. Even though I know that I participate in many things, I felt like it wasn't enough. I felt like other people were doing so much more than me while I wasn't making any progress. I always hesitate to describe myself as "hardworking" or "productive" or "well-rounded" because personally, I feel like I am always lacking in some area.

But I have to teach myself that not participating in everything is okay.

It is okay to give yourself what you want.

It is okay to take a break.

It is okay to say no.


Not getting involved in as many extracurriculars as other people is okay.

j.j.