The week of the UWK National Karate championships was one of the most exciting, action packed and pressurised weeks, however I enjoyed every minute of it.
The week started on a high, with me winning two golds, a silver and a bronze. Although I was so happy and relieved that I performed at my best, I was so tired from the long day of travelling and competing.
Monday came as shock, quickly switching back to school mode, and realizing the busy week ahead. I knew I had to organise my time effectively around all my clubs, so I could get everything done.
Planning the week really helped me to feel in control and productive throughout the busyness without being overwhelmed.
Monday, I attended my Further Maths lesson at lunchtime and Spanish revision workshop after school. I then completed my homework before doing Karate training from 8.30pm to 9.30pm. Tuesday I attend PHSEE at lunchtime and Maths revision after school. I have Karate from 6.30pm to 8pm so have to make sure I do my schoolwork before and after it.
This week was unusual because I wanted to do my Sports Scholarship on Wednesday and my NEA project was on Friday. This meant that I had to do my Chemistry test a day early and do my Geography test at the weekend. I had to reorganise my evenings to catch up on the lessons I missed and do strength and conditioning-based Karate training as I was attending a selection trial for the World Championships on Sunday.
On Saturday, I had some down time, giving me the balance and energy I needed for Sunday and the following week. I also caught up with the missed work and ran through my Karate skills (without doing anything too physical so I was prepared for the next day).
What could have been a stressful week gave me a sense of pride and achievement because I was always on the go and able to concentrate on each task, making me feel productive. The balance and organisation meant that I wasn’t drained and was able to revise for my Physics test on my way home from the selection day. This took the pressure off the following week.
I recommend that all students organise and plan for busy weeks so that they are less stressed and overwhelmed, allowing you to achieve everything you need and want to. I trained for Karate every day except Wednesday and this allowed my mind to be clear and focused.
– Leah, U5S
