Maintain good grades, be a leader, play sports and secure a job.

“That’s too much,” people caution.

No it’s not. It’s my choice.

The worst part of a full plate is not the jam-packed schedule, but the constant and annoying, reminder: “don’t spread yourself too thin!”

Why should a student give up any of their passions, or even feel the pressure to do so, if it’s what someone really wants to do?

Yes, spending four hours on homework, two hours planning a club event, two hours at practice, and then five hours at work may be on the brink of overexertion, but it isn’t. It’s possible.

High school is difficult and busy, but students should at least enjoy what they do. And if that means taking four AP classes, being NHS president, playing varsity basketball and working at Chili’s— then more power to them.

Stress is a major problem among almost all students and a parent constantly worrying, even doubting, what their child can handle is certainly no help.

What these busy-bee students need is encouragement. Leave the doubt in the dust.

No more, “Oh honey, I don’t think you can volunteer for NHS hours, work and finish your personal statement this weekend. It’s just too much.”

How about, “Oh honey, that’s a lot to take care of; but, I know you can do it.”

No need for students to clear their schedules in an effort to ease their parents’ worrying. Just enjoy high school and take advantage of every available opportunity.

High school is the time to explore any interests and to find oneself. Students should not limit their interests due to fear of criticism. At many colleges, it’s not as easy to become a club president or to thrive in difficult classes and hold down a job. The time to maximize opportunity is now, don’t waste it.

A person is not a scoop of jelly and life is not a slice of toast; there is no such thing as “spreading yourself too thin.” A person is a person, who can do anything they choose— with passion.