What do the most impressive high school students typically do?

Hey everyone! I know some high schoolers who seem to shine extra bright, managing to juggle academics, extracurriculars, sports etc and still come out on top. What do you think these 'impressive' high school students do differently? How do they manage their time, or what activities do they focus on? Any advice would be greatly appreciated.

Impressive high school students typically excel both academically and through extracurricular activities. They are consistently engaged in a balanced mix of rigorous courses, sports, arts, leadership roles, and volunteer work. Rather than spreading themselves thin across a multitude of activities, these outstanding students often have a few key interest areas where they truly shine—a concept known as a "spike."

"Spike" essentially means you've dug deep into one or two areas, achieving notable mastery or accomplishments, rather than having only a shallow involvement in a multitude of activities. This could be anything from achieving a high-level ranking in chess, getting published in a scientific journal, or winning a national debate competition.

When it comes to managing their time, these students often have a firm grip on their schedules and prioritize efficiency and productivity. They often make use of planners, calendars, or other organizational tools to ensure that each day is structured and that their time is used most effectively. They are also frequent delegates, understanding that they can't do everything alone and acknowledging when they need help whether from teachers, peers, or family.

Importantly, successful students understand the value of breaks and downtime. They know that constant work without rest leads to burnout, so they make sure to incorporate regular relaxation periods into their schedules. This might mean taking up a hobby that is unrelated to their academic interests, like painting or playing the guitar, or simply making time for socializing with friends.

On a closing note, keep in mind that being "impressive" is rather subjective. Success isn't just about getting top grades or being a superstar athlete—it's also about building resilience, pursuing your passions, and developing as a well-rounded individual with a solid balance between academics, extracurriculars, and personal life. The most significant success indicator isn't always about outdoing everyone else, but about doing the best you can do for yourself. So focus on finding your passion and pursue it with dedication and perseverance.

Hopefully, this insight gives you some clarity on what often sets those 'impressive' students apart and how you can apply certain principles to your approach in high school.