Burnt Out After High School? 4 Tips to Recharge
Finishing high school can feel like crossing a finish line… but for many students, it also comes with burnout. Endless exams, assignments and high expectations can leave you feeling drained when it’s all over.
If the thought of jumping straight into your next step feels overwhelming, you’re not alone. The good news is, there are ways to pause, recharge and still set yourself up for success.
Here are four essential tips for high school graduates feeling burnt out.
1. Give Yourself Permission to Pause
Burnout isn’t failure, it’s your body and mind signalling that you need a break. Taking time to recharge isn’t wasting time, it’s investing in your mental health. Whether it’s a few weeks, a few months or even a gap year, giving yourself space can help you regain focus and energy.
2. Explore Alternative Pathways
While it may be the next obvious step, university isn’t the only way to build a successful career. Traineeships, apprenticeships and short courses offer hands-on experience while you learn valuable skills in real-world settings. These pathways also allow you to earn while you learn, gain industry experience and discover your strengths.
3. Focus on Skills, Not Just Degrees
Employers value practical skills as much as formal qualifications. Communication, teamwork, problem-solving and leadership are all highly sought after. A traineeship – even during a gap year – can help you develop these skills while you figure out the career path that truly excites you.
4. Seek Support
You don’t have to navigate this transition alone. Talk to mentors, career advisors, family members and friends who understand your situation. Guidance from people can help you explore options, make informed choices and feel more confident about your future.
Burnout after high school is common, but it’s also the perfect time to take a breath and explore what’s right for you. AFL SportsReady provides supportive traineeship pathways that allow young people to gain skills, confidence and real-world experience – whether as part of a gap year or a long-term career plan.
Consider your Gap Year options with these feature stories:
“It’s been a game-changer…”
– Madison – Read more
Lauren stresses the significance of using a traineeship as a “gap year” to explore career interests, especially for aspiring teachers. – Read more
“It’s an easy transition with the support you receive and you also get a qualification to add to your resume.” – Christian – Read more
“In year 12 prior to finishing school I came across the AFL SportsReady’s Schools Traineeship Program and was very interested in getting some industry experience prior to starting a teaching degree…” – Read more
Take control of your future today and explore AFL SportsReady traineeships. Start your career on your terms.
