How I Manage Being a Student and an Entrepreneur at 18

Everyone has a tough schedule. Whether it’s school, work, family, or personal goals, life can feel overwhelming. I get it—it’s easy to fall into the trap of complaining. I’ve been there too.

As a kinesiology major with a pre-med minor and an exercise science concentration, my plate is full. Add being an entrepreneur on top of that, and I could have every excuse to complain. But here’s what I’ve learned: Complaining doesn’t change anything. Action does.

Sure, there are moments when I feel like throwing in the towel. Times when I catch myself venting about how hard it all feels. But then I remember why I’m doing this—to create a better future for myself and others—and I get back to work.

If I’ve learned anything from balancing school and entrepreneurship, it’s that your mindset is your greatest tool. Here’s how I manage my schedule, keep moving forward, and stop letting complaints hold me back—and how you can do the same.

1. Acknowledge, Then Act

The truth is, we all feel like complaining sometimes. It’s natural. But the problem comes when we let it consume us.

Here’s what I’ve learned: It’s okay to feel frustrated, but you can’t stay there. Acknowledge the challenge, then focus on what you can do to overcome it.

What I Do:

• When I feel overwhelmed by my coursework or client deadlines, I take a step back and make a plan.

• Instead of saying, “I can’t handle this,” I ask, “What’s the next step I can take right now?”

Tip: Replace complaints with action. The sooner you take the first step, the quicker you’ll feel in control.

2. Your Schedule is Tough—But So Are You

My major isn’t a walk in the park. Kinesiology with a pre-med minor and an exercise science concentration means labs, exams, and a heavy workload. Add to that running my business, and my days are packed.

But here’s the thing: Complaining about my schedule won’t make it any easier. What helps is remembering that I’m capable of handling hard things.

What I Do:

• I stick to a structured schedule that balances my priorities.

• I remind myself that every challenge I face is preparing me for the future I’m building.

Tip: Instead of focusing on how hard your schedule is, focus on how capable you are of handling it.

3. Stop Wasting Energy on Excuses

Complaining drains your energy. It’s time and mental space you could be using to actually solve the problem or make progress.

Ask Yourself:

• How much time have you spent complaining about something you could’ve fixed?

• What could you accomplish if you redirected that energy into action?

What I Do: When I catch myself making excuses, I stop and ask, “What am I going to do about it?” The answer is always something—because action beats excuses every time.

4. Accept That It Won’t Always Be Perfect

Sometimes I still complain. I’ll admit it—I’m human. But I’ve learned that perfection isn’t the goal. The goal is to keep going, even when things don’t feel ideal.

There are days when I miss a workout or fall behind on my business tasks because school takes priority. But instead of beating myself up, I refocus and move forward.

What I Do:

• I give myself grace when things don’t go perfectly.

• I remind myself that progress matters more than perfection.

Tip: Don’t let small setbacks stop your momentum. A bad day doesn’t mean you’re failing—it just means you’re human.

5. Keep Your “Why” Front and Center

When life feels overwhelming, the thing that keeps me going is my “why.” I know why I’m pursuing my major, why I’m running my business, and why I’m working hard now—because I’m building a life I’m proud of.

Complaining might feel good in the moment, but it doesn’t align with my goals. What does? Taking action, staying focused, and trusting the process.

What I Do:

• I keep a journal where I write my goals and remind myself why they matter.

• When things get tough, I visualize the future I’m working toward.

Tip: Write down your “why” and look at it every time you feel like complaining. It’ll remind you what’s really important.

Conclusion: You’re Stronger Than You Think

Everyone has a tough schedule. Everyone feels overwhelmed at times. But the difference between those who move forward and those who stay stuck is how they respond to the challenge.

If you want to stop letting complaints hold you back, start by taking action—no matter how small. Focus on what you can control, trust in your ability to handle hard things, and never lose sight of your “why.”

I’m 18, balancing school and entrepreneurship, and figuring it out as I go. If I can do it, you can too. Let’s stop complaining and start building the future we deserve—one step at a time.