Have a question for Judy? E-mail it to DearJudith@gmail.com !
01.11.06
Dear Judy,
I can't seem to find any free time! I have band
practice every Monday and Wednesday with a football game on Friday and
competitions on some Saturdays. I am in Acc. Calc, AP Bio, Adv. Psych, and Adv. American History, so I have tons of homework and a lot of studying to do. I also work at Eat'n Park about twice a week. What should I do to gain more free time? I'm so busy!
Signed,
Can't Find a Second for Anything
Dear C.F.S.A,
This is a tough question to answer! I'm positive that you are not the only one who seems to be overwhelmed; even I have been getting worn down lately. Although taking advanced classes looks good on your resume for college, it's also a lot of work, especially if you take more than one. The first step to dealing with not having enough time is not to stress. When you stress out it's so hard to get things done, especially if you don't work well under pressure. A nice routine is essential. Get into the habit of doing things with a schedule, it makes things a lot easier. And if you aren't the type to be held down by a schedule, you can make it less binding or less structured and keep it general. If you do decide to go with a structured routine, make sure you incorporate time to relax every day. Even if it's only ten minutes, it'll make a world of difference. Using your time wisely is also very important. If you have a sub for a certain class, or have an unexpected study hall, use that time to finish up on some homework so you don't need to take it home. And since you work at a restaurant, sometimes it's rather slow, so maybe take some homework to work with you for when you have downtime and have nothing to do. Anytime you find yourself bored, that's the perfect time to hit the books. Sometimes it's hard to push yourself to do so, but you're going to have to push yourself anyways. Although sometimes it seems impossible to get everything done, but it is very possible, it just takes some extra effort and some smart time management.
I hope I helped!
Best of luck!
Judy
Dear Judy,
I don't feel like my parents trust me. I make good grades and I haven't
done anything extremely bad, but they still won't let me stay out later than 9 PM and they won't let me hang out with my friends as often as I'd like. It's almost as if they're just waiting for me to mess up. Help please!
Signed,
Frustrated with Parents.
Dear F.W.P,
Although it may seem like they
don't trust you, your parents probably have good reasons for their strict rules. I know you've heard this before, but it's only because they want the best for you. What you can do right now is prove to your parents that you are trustworthy. Start with little steps like doing your chores on time, or even doing things that are not really expected for you to do. Maybe clean up the house a little everyday after school or do the dishes without being asked. Taking responsibility means a lot to parents and it will show them that you really are a good kid and they should begin to trust your judgment more. If the subtle hints do not seem to have an impact, ask them about it. Make sure you remain respectful and listen to what they say and they will surely listen to you in return.
Best of luck!
Judy
09.15.06
Dear Judy,
Sometimes I think that my boyfriend is just using me. But I'm not sure. Should I stay with him or break it off?
Signed,
Perhaps Used and Abused.
Dear P.U.A,
If you suspect that your boyfriend is using you, the easiest thing to do is ask him about it. Although you may think it might start an argument, and he could get angry with your accusations, at least you will know more about it. In a calm, unassuming manner, ask him about the situation, make sure that you are clear with him that it is causing you distress. If he gets angry, the easiest thing to do is talk it out. If he refuses to talk or drops the subject, try again at a later time. If he refuses to talk about it the next time, maybe you should consider breaking it off. It will be hard, but good relationships thrive on good communication and trust.
Best of luck!
Judy