How to Thrive This November: 3 Rules for Balancing School, Life, and Joy

Hi friends! 🌸

I hope you’re off to a fantastic start this November! 💖

As for me, this month is looking pretty packed: school work, college apps, and the start of the winter swim season. Honestly, when you break it down, it sounds pretty routine and maybe even a little boring, right?

But here’s the thing — how we live our lives is determined by how we choose to spend our days. And even with all the school pressure, deadlines, and commitments, I’m committed to making this month about more than just getting things done. I want to actually thrive this November — to find fulfillment, fun, and joy in everything, even in the hustle. ✨

Photo by Satria Perkasa on Unsplash

So, if you’re like me and feeling a little overwhelmed with all that’s happening right now, I’m here to tell you that you can still find joy. In fact, now is the perfect time to create a balance between working hard and enjoying life.

Here are my three rules for staying grounded, focused, and yes, having fun this November. 👇

1. Slow Down & Embrace the Fall Vibe 🍂

Yes, we have tons to do, but that doesn’t mean we can’t slow down and enjoy the season. Fall is all about cozy vibes, pumpkin spice, and hot cocoa. So take time to balance your quick work with moments of calm and relaxation.

Take 10 minutes each day to romanticize your surroundings: Light a candle, curl up with a blanket, or sip a hot drink. These small moments of peace will recharge you and help you stay present.
Reward yourself for getting through the grind: After a productive study session or completing an assignment, give yourself a treat! For example, tonight, I’m treating myself to my favorite chicken bacon ranch pizza at my boarding school’s Movie Night. 🍕

Remember, it’s okay to take breaks and recharge — you don’t have to be “on” all the time. It’s all about balance.

Photo by Storiès on Unsplash

2. Make a Vision Board for the Season ✨

When you’re feeling overwhelmed, it’s easy to lose sight of your bigger goals. That’s why I love creating season-specific vision boards. They remind me of the things I want to focus on and help me stay motivated.

Set specific, achievable goals for the next 1–3 months. Maybe you want to raise your grades in a certain subject, have more fun, or improve your morning routine. Whatever it is, be clear about what you want.
Collect images from Pinterest or magazines that represent your goals. Pin them to your board and look at it every day. These visual reminders will inspire you to keep moving forward.
Write down your goals in your journal too — studies show that writing things down increases your chances of success!
- For example, some of my goals this November are to be on top of deadlines, enjoy little nightly rewards a few times a week, and eat balanced breakfasts.

Photo by Jovan Vasiljević on Unsplash

This practice will help you stay focused on what really matters, and you’ll feel more in control of your time and energy.

3. Move with Intention (And Be Kind to Yourself!) 💪

Now, let’s get real for a second. It’s easy to get caught up in the “I have so much to do!” mindset. But instead of getting overwhelmed, ask yourself: How can I make today meaningful?

Think about the small things you can do today that will help you tomorrow. Maybe it’s reading a chapter for class or organizing your notes for the week ahead. Little actions add up.
Use your mood board or vision board as a reminder of why you’re working so hard. Stay focused on your bigger picture, but remember to take breaks and have fun along the way.

Remember: You’ve got this. Yes, it can be stressful, but you are in control of how you manage your time and energy. Focus on progress, not perfection.

Photo by Jess Bailey on Unsplash

A Final Word: Embrace the Balance 💖

Here’s a quote I saw recently that really stuck out to me and I agree with part of it, but not all of it: “I can’t cry that I have a lot on my plate when my goal is to eat.” 🍽️

What I take from this is that we can choose to embrace the hard work and challenges ahead, but we also have to prioritize our happiness and joy. It’s about finding a healthy balance between hustle and self-care. However, it is okay to “cry” and feel joy amongst what you’ve placed on your plate.

So, if you’re juggling school, college apps, sports, and everything else, remember: you don’t have to choose between working hard and enjoying life. You can do both.