By Tay Yu Ning (25S07A) and Kondareddy Iniya, Peer Helper (25S03E)

Your resident Aunties and Uncles are back with our Ask Aunt Agony and Uncle Upset column, this time as a collaboration between Raffles Press and the Peer Helpers’ Programme (PHP)! Ever wanted to rant about that someone you just can’t stand? Overwhelmed with too many feelings? Submit your confessions to https://tinyurl.com/RIAAUU and we’ll give them our best shot. This column will be published at the end of every month.

At the start of the school year, we all entered the RI corridors with eyes full of curiosity and heads buzzing with aspirations. Now, it’s hard to ignore the fatigue etched on every student’s face—some are catching naps during breaks, while others are forever in the library, mugging. By now, we’ve likely realised that in JC, the days may feel long, but the weeks fly by in a blur. 

Time management isn’t just a skill; it’s a necessity, as time has become a precious commodity. Balancing academic rigour with extracurricular commitments, enrichment programs, and tuition classes comes at a steep price.

1. Get back up every time you’re pushed down

To every student demotivated after faring poorly, it’s okay. It’s normal to doubt yourself after not faring well in Class Tests or Timed Practice. When your efforts don’t seem to pay off and you’re knocked down repeatedly, it can be incredibly challenging to get back up with a positive mindset. 

But all you need to do is start. Start small to overcome the initial inertia. Remember, if you give up now, success will forever remain out of reach. By taking that first step, you’ll build momentum, and gradually, your successes will add up, boosting your self-confidence and showing you that progress is possible.

You need to believe in yourself. You can do it.

2. Getting out of your academic slump

We’ve all experienced an academic slump at some point, where motivation seems out of reach. It’s difficult to push yourself to study when there are so many other enticing distractions, like scrolling through Instagram or binge-watching Netflix shows. 

But remember: the key is to just start. Put away your distractions and focus on your work for, say, an hour. Reward yourself afterward with food, some screen time, or anything you enjoy, and gradually make studying a habit.

In fact, the 21/90 rule suggests that it takes 21 days of consistent effort to form a new habit, and an additional 90 days to make it a permanent part of your routine. Motivation can be fleeting, and you’ll soon realise that maintaining momentum is tough. That’s why discipline and routine are crucial for staying consistent with your work throughout the year. 

3. Regulate yourself 

Sometimes, you might find yourself sleep-deprived or on the brink of burnout. You may notice your mental health slowly deteriorating, and it can feel overwhelming. When you’re caught in this cycle, it’s crucial to take a step back and assess your well-being. 

Firstly, prioritise sleep. It might be tempting to pull all-nighters to catch up on work, but consistently sacrificing sleep will only harm your performance and mental clarity in the long run. 

Secondly, know when to stop work. Studying for long periods of time will only end up being counterproductive. Get out of the house, take a walk, or spend time on your hobbies. These activities are not distractions; they’re necessary to relax your body and mind.

Remember to always be kind to yourself. Celebrate your progress, no matter how small it may seem. It’s important to understand that it’s okay not to be at the same pace as everyone else. You can move at your own speed—slow and steady—so long as you remain consistent in your efforts.

4. Seek help

Seeking help is a strength, not a weakness. It reflects wisdom, self-awareness, and a willingness to grow. Don’t hesitate to reach out to subject tutors, friends, or even join a study group. You can also talk to a peer helper or the counsellors at the RGC. Sometimes, simply expressing your emotions can significantly improve your mental well-being.

Improvement often comes slowly, and the journey can be challenging. It’s crucial to track your progress, recognizing and celebrating each milestone along the way. 

Your journey is like a J curve—initial setbacks are just the start. Keep pushing forward, knowing that challenges lay the foundation for future growth. With patience and persistence, you’re sure to rise to new heights.

Ultimately, the pursuit of excellence is about more than just reaching your goals; it’s about growing through the process. Every challenge and obstacle helps build resilience and strength—life skills essential for leading a meaningful life. Approach your studies with determination and an open mind. The journey may be challenging, but with perseverance, you’ll find your way to success. 

After all, you’re not alone in this. Though it may not feel like it, many of your peers are likely facing the same struggles you do.

If you need anyone to talk to about any issues you might be facing, do drop by My Rest Space near Marymount gate and talk to one of our peer helpers! We’re open on Monday, Tuesday, Thursday and Friday from 3 – 5 p.m., and Wednesday 11.00 a.m. – 1.00 p.m. 

If you would like to meet a peer helper on a regular basis, do email us a request at rafflesinstitutionphp@gmail.com or fill in our request form at our website: https://rafflesinstitution5.wixsite.com/rafflespeerhelpers