In high school, especially in Year 12, it can feel like your entire identity revolves around studying. Marks, rankings, exams… everything seems to define you.

But one of the best decisions I made was not letting school be my only focus.

Outside of studying, I played the double bass in orchestra, played badminton, and painted. At first, they felt like “extra” activities. Looking back, they were essential.

Playing the double bass in orchestra taught me discipline in a different way. Music requires patience, listening, and collaboration. Sitting in rehearsals, focusing on harmony rather than marks, reminded me that there is a world beyond exam papers. It grounded me.

Badminton gave me movement and release. When I was stressed about an upcoming test or disappointed about a mark, running across the court helped me reset. Physical activity clears your mind in a way that studying never can.

Painting became my quiet escape. When I felt overwhelmed, I could sit down and create something without being graded. There was no ranking, no comparison — just expression. It reminded me that not everything needs to be measured.

These hobbies didn’t distract me from my studies, rather, they sustained them.

When I received a bad mark, I didn’t spiral as much because I knew that my worth wasn’t tied to a number. I could go to orchestra rehearsal, play a game of badminton, or pick up a paintbrush and feel like myself again.

Hobbies give you balance. They protect your motivation. They prevent burnout.

Most importantly, they remind you that you are more than your academic performance.

Year 12 is important. But so is your mental health, your identity, and your joy. And sometimes, the thing that helps you succeed academically isn’t studying more — it’s stepping away and doing something you love :).

Aria Zhang