I have friends who seem to be involved in everything. My friends take part in a sport for each season, a club for each interest and a field trip for each month. Although that’s an exaggeration, I often look at my busy friends and wonder, “How do they have time for all of that?” 

I used to believe being busy was exhausting, but then I began to notice that my friends always seemed to be happy and connected to so many people. They would tell stories about people that I didn’t even know went to our school. They would post stories online of exciting events with so many ecstatic people. It appeared as if there was no room in their schedule, and they liked it that way. 

I couldn’t imagine the stressful moments they must have gone through, but I also couldn’t believe how connected they were with the school. I realized that being active in school activities is not about staying busy – it is about finding a sense of belonging and making timeless memories. 

I have played sports the last couple of years. Sports aren’t everyone’s cup of tea, but I grew up drinking mine to the last drop. I love every moment – the practices, the games and the energy. But sometimes, pouring everything into one cup means I don’t have time left for anything else.

The pressure gets to me sometimes. I overthink every mistake, replaying it in my head long after the game ends. Sometimes I lose the joy of playing and feel like I am not doing enough. It wrecks me. There are nights I come home late after a tough game, exhausted, with homework still waiting for me. But even in those moments, something keeps me grounded: the lessons, the friendships and the memories I’m building along the way. 

Like standing under a tent with my middle school track team, singing loudly and laughing, squished together as the rain came down hard during our meet. Despite the cold and wet, we came together as a team. And when I played soccer, my team dressed up for Halloween and scrimmaged the whole practice. We were kids, and we couldn’t stop laughing at how silly we all looked running around all dressed differently. 

I wouldn’t have the friends and memories I do today if it weren’t for the sports I played. It wasn’t always easy, but it’s something I’ll never regret spending my time doing. Not everyone finds their place in sports, and that’s alright. But there are other ways to get involved, whether it’s joining a club, volunteering, performing in a school play or even helping with the yearbook or student council. So if you want to try something new, find something that sparks your interest.  

Sure, it might be stressful. It might seem like too much, but when high school is over and you’re looking back at all the years, you’re not going to remember scrolling through your phone for hours. You’ll remember the friendships you built, the moments you shared with others and the times you pushed yourself to try something new. That’s what makes it all worth it.