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August 3, 2023

In a viral speech made by Edsel Suhayon Codoy, an honor student from the University of the Philippines Cebu, he mentioned that one of the biggest regrets he has was studying hard and doing nothing else. 

 

Though, don't take it out of context. The statement highlighted in Codoy's speech is as follows: 

 

My biggest regret in UP Cebu was actually studying hard. Wait, wait. Let me finish.

 

Studying hard and doing nothing else.

 

You know, I have been chasing excellence my entire academic life, but reflecting on my college stay, I was actually missing out in life. I missed out on the unique opportunities for personal growth, exploration, and building meaningful connections.

 

Since high school, I have always been reclusive and shy, socializing in the most minimal levels of interaction. The most convenient people I had around back then turned out to be the closest circle I have.

 

A few years forward, I was able to bring the same reserved behavior in college. And I would have to say, it got the best of me. I passed on a lot of things in college. I was not joining orgs. I was declining offertorship nominations. I was only going with the same group of people I would meet on a class basis. And even in school events and programs, I remained as an observer.

 

Image from My TV Cebu

 

Because while my block mates and friends were genuinely trusting my abilities, I sadly was not. Only recently, I was able to recognize that the self-restraint that was holding me back was coming from my fear of failure.

 

As a result, I settled with what I have been doing and what I do best. Spending all my time with school.

 

On the bright side, it brought me to where I am now. However, it took me a long time staying in that comfort bubble before I realized that I was actually only becoming book smart. I was in fact sabotaging my own personal growth by passing on the opportunities openly offered to me.

 

As moms or as parents, we hope and pray that our children would do well in school. However, it begs the question if, in reference to Codoy's speech, being book smart is enough. It also opens the discussion of helping your children balance their studies with their lives outside of school. 

 

In the Philippines, it's rare for a student to not have extra-curricular activities, but having none is just as common. There are students (and parents at that) who prefer the company of books rather than after-school activities. 

 

In the journey of academic success, parents hold a crucial position in supporting and guiding teenagers. Despite their quest for independence, parental involvement remains a vital factor in helping teens thrive in school. By staying informed and offering a little support, parents can significantly contribute to their children's achievements in their educational endeavors.

 

That said, here are a couple of things that you might want to consider as you help your teenager succeed in school.

 

Igniting the Spark: How to Keep Your Teenager Engaged in Studies

 

Motivating teenagers to study can be a challenge for parents, especially in an age where distractions like social media and entertainment consume a significant portion of their time. To encourage better study habits, fostering open communication and a strong bond with your teen is crucial. Approach the topic positively, emphasizing the value of education and how it can lead to fulfilling opportunities in the future. Avoid punitive or forceful methods, as these can create feelings of demotivation and alienation in teenagers.

 

For parents seeking ways to inspire their teens to reach their full potential academically, there are several effective tips to consider. By implementing these strategies, parents can create an environment that nurtures their teenager's intrinsic motivation to excel in their studies.

 

Homework Support

 

During high school, homework becomes more demanding, and grades hold significant importance for college plans. Students preparing for college also need to focus on SATs and/or ACTs, all while juggling extracurricular activities, social lives, and jobs. To support your teen during this intense period, ensure they have a quiet, well-equipped study space free of distractions like phones and TVs. Regularly check in with them to ensure they stay focused. Help your teen balance their class loads and adhere to a structured homework and study schedule. Encourage them to seek help when needed, as teachers are often available for extra assistance and can suggest additional resources.

 

Empathize

 

To motivate teenagers to study, it is essential to empathize with their emotions and perspectives. Engage in open conversations to understand their point of view and then effectively communicate the importance of taking their studies seriously. It is crucial to confront any challenges they may be facing in their academic journey, whether it's a specific subject they struggle with or difficulty understanding the material being taught. By talking and empathizing with your teenager, you can identify the underlying issues and work together to overcome them, ultimately fostering a positive and supportive environment for their studies.

 

 

Instilling Organizational Skills

 

Learning and mastering organizational skills is crucial for teenagers as it positively impacts all aspects of their lives. Since these skills are often not explicitly taught in high school, parents and guardians can play a vital role in providing guidance. Encouraging teens to keep their assignments and class information organized in binders, notebooks, or folders by subject can be beneficial. Creating a calendar helps them stay aware of upcoming deadlines and plan their time effectively, including non-academic commitments. Additionally, prioritized daily to-do lists and studying in a well-lit, quiet, and organized workspace can enhance productivity, while avoiding distractions like TV and texts ensures better focus and efficiency in studying and completing homework.

 

Bridge the Gap

 

Staying connected with teenagers, who spend much of their day outside the home, can be a challenge for parents and guardians. Despite the centrality of school, extracurricular activities, and social circles in their lives, parents remain the anchors for providing love, guidance, and support. Making a daily effort to talk with your teen about their school experiences lets them know you value what they're going through, which can motivate them to take academics seriously. Effective communication is crucial, involving active listening, eye contact, and avoiding distractions during conversations. Encouraging open dialogue through asking open-ended questions and finding appropriate times to talk, such as during car trips or meal preparation, can foster a strong parent-teen connection and help teenagers navigate the challenges of high school with greater ease.

 

Extracurriculars Matter 

 

While emphasizing the importance of studying, it is essential not to neglect your teenager's creative interests and other productive activities. Encourage them to engage in play and dedicate time to pursue various hobbies and interests. Balancing academics with these endeavors not only refreshes their mind but also enhances their skills. Motivating your teenager doesn't involve forcing them to comply with your wishes; instead, it's about involving them in joint problem-solving and providing subtle support and supervision. Celebrate their achievements whole-heartedly and offer occasional incentives to stimulate their interest. Through a nurturing and supportive approach, you can effectively inspire your teen to excel in their studies and beyond.

 

 

Fueling the Desire to Learn

 

Striking a harmonious balance between academic pursuits and extracurricular activities is paramount for fostering holistic development in teenagers. While studying remains a fundamental aspect of their growth, it should never overshadow their creative interests and productive passions. Encouraging teens to explore diverse hobbies not only rejuvenates their minds but also cultivates valuable skills and talents.

 

Motivating teenagers to excel academically goes beyond mere coercion; it requires meaningful involvement, joint problem-solving, and subtle guidance from parents and guardians. By nurturing open communication and providing unwavering support, we can create a nurturing environment that empowers teenagers to thrive in both their academic and personal pursuits.

 

Remember, celebrating even the smallest achievements and occasionally incentivizing their efforts can further ignite their curiosity and enthusiasm. Ultimately, the journey to inspire our teenagers should be one of understanding, encouragement, and empowerment. By embracing this approach, we equip our youth with the tools they need to succeed academically and lay a foundation for a fulfilling and purposeful future. As parents and mentors, let us continue to guide our teenagers with love and appreciation, fostering a generation of well-rounded, confident, and motivated individuals ready to take on the challenges and opportunities that lie ahead.