Dear Emma,

I’m worried about failing my classes but I won’t do anything to prevent that from happening. Advice?

Thanks,

Reader

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Dear Reader,

Thank you for writing in with this problem.

First of all, I sympathize. I know my motivation to do homework or anything else productive has gone down significantly since the transition to online classes. I imagine you are probably feeling the same way. 

My advice to you — and the advice I am currently practicing myself — is to give yourself grace. This is a pandemic, not a productivity contest. It’s okay if you feel worried or unmotivated right now. In fact, it’s expected that you would feel these things. Don’t beat yourself up if you aren’t getting as much done as you think you should be. 

Hopefully, you have built enough good credit in your classes that if you miss a couple assignments you won’t actually fail.

Even if that isn’t the case, don’t fret. Do what you can, though that might not feel like much. Your professors are going to be extra understanding right now, so don’t be afraid to ask them for help.

If all else fails, you have until June 1 to switch your class to pass/fail. I don’t recommend doing this for all your classes, but if there are one or two that you are particularly worried about, this could be a good option. 

Lastly, if your worries or lack of motivation are getting to a point where they feel unmanageable, please seek help from a mental health professional. There is never shame in doing that, whether or not it may feel like the world is ending.

Please remember: you are going to be okay. The world is going to be okay. Different, but okay. 

Stay safe,

Emma