You Don’t Need a Title to Create Change

Reframing Power

What is power? The basic definition would be “the ability to do something,” but we as a society see it as much more than that. We associate power with high status, wealth, and leadership positions. Though these things influence an individual’s power, you do not need them to have power. So many believe that they are powerless. Powerless to start something. Powerless to influence others. Powerless to create change. Change, genuine change, does not require high status, wealth, leadership positions, or authority. To create change, you must assume your innate power and choose to ignore the “prerequisites” that society forces upon us. 

The Myth of “Waiting Your Turn”

From an early age, we have been told to “wait our turn.” Though this rule applies in lunch lines and class discussions, it holds little importance in the real world. You do not have to wait till you are older, wiser, chosen, or given permission. By waiting your turn and allowing others to dictate your life, you give up your power. This controlled-individual mindset only leads to silence, apathy, and inaction. It will never be your turn if you continue to wait for others to validate your actions. If you want to create change, build a better life for yourself, and achieve genuine success, you must stop waiting and take your power into your own hands.

What Change Actually Looks Like

But what is change? Change is not immediate, and it is not easy. It means showing up, speaking up, organizing, and serving daily. Taking small, consistent steps compounds into larger outcomes, and that is what real change comes from. This can look like starting a conversation with someone new, organizing a group of people to volunteer at a soup kitchen, or getting more involved in an organization. The results will not be immediate, but the consistency and discipline that you gain will be more than enough to keep going. 

How to Start Creating Change Where You Are

You are already qualified to start creating change, no prerequisites or title required. Creating change without a title could be starting a student-led initiative, making community impact through school clubs, engaging in projects and advocacy, or even adding simple, everyday leadership moments into your routine. A few tips on how to begin:

• Identify a problem that you care about. (ex: poverty, equality, education, etc.)

• Start small and local. (ex: attending a town council meeting)

• Use your voice. (ex: starting a social media account dedicated to spreading awareness for your issue)

Power Without Permission

Change does not require a title; it requires power. Not power given by institutions, authority figures, or material success, but the power that comes from recognizing your own agency. When you stop waiting for permission, you stop giving your power away. Take that step. Speak up about what you are passionate about. Start that business. Your actions do not have to be loud or perfect; they just have to be intentional. Because if you don’t take that step, the change you’re capable of creating will always remain just out of reach.

Leave a comment below or DM me on Instagram with the step you are taking today to create change!

Love, 

Juliet & Study Strong

The Top 10 Habits of Highly Successful Students

Have you ever seen those students who seem to have their entire life together? They play sports, are in every club imaginable, get top grades, and still manage to be genuinely kind people.

The truth? Their success is not about perfection; it’s about habits. Not big, overwhelming ones, but small, daily habits that build into massive change. 

Here are the top 10 specific habits that you can start immediately to become more productive and successful: (tip: read Atomic Habits by James Clear for a deeper breakdown on building strong daily habits)

Habit 1: Make Your Bed Every Morning

What may seem like a small action is actually one of the biggest game-changers for productivity. By creating a win so early in the day, you gain instant momentum and set the tone for everything else. Plus, a clean environment is always good for your mind. 

Habit 2: Do a 5 - Minute Morning Reset

Your morning reset does not have to be anything overwhelming. Adding simple structure helps you stay grounded and calm. Examples include: drinking water, stretching, planning out your day, tidying your room, saying affirmations, and journaling. 

If you’re looking for more journaling inspiration, check out my blog post, “Journaling for Student Success: 10 Prompts to Gain Clarity and Confidence.”

Habit 3: Use a Weekly Planning System

If you take anything from this post, let it be this habit. A planner or weekly system is life-changing. Choose your 3 top priorities for the week, write down all quizzes, exams, and due dates, and break big tasks into smaller, daily tasks. As someone who uses a planner religiously, I promise your productivity will skyrocket. Don’t have a planner? Check out my Study Strong Schedules, which are on sale RIGHT NOW!

Habit 4: Study Using Active Recall Techniques

Instead of simply rereading your notes and convincing yourself you understand, use active recall. Make flashcards, teach the material out loud, or do practice questions. These methods will solidify the information and help you understand it more deeply. 

Habit 5: Keep Your Workspace Clean

A clean environment = a clean mind. Surround yourself with things that will help you stay calm, productive, and successful. Small habits like a 2-minute tidy before bed, only keeping essentials on your desk, and doing a weekly backpack clean-out make a huge difference.

Habit 6: Write a To-Do List Daily (and actually finish it)

Every day–morning or night –write a short list of 3 non-negotiable tasks and 2 optional bonus tasks. This is your backbone for the day. Cross off these tasks throughout the day to stay productive and steadily gain motivation.

Habit 7: Move Your Body Daily

I cannot stress this enough. Daily movement is essential for focus, motivation, and happiness. Even small forms of movement can make a huge difference. Things like:

• A 10-20 minute walk

• An at-home workout

• A morning stretch routine

Habit 8: Stay Ahead, Not Behind

Waiting until the last minute creates stress, frustration, and poor-quality work. Those students that you look up to take their time, stay ahead, and put a great amount of effort into everything they do. But how can you do that too? Preview tomorrow’s notes or topics for 5 minutes to minimize confusion and lock in ideas. Start assignments the day they are given to eliminate due-date stress. Pack your school bag the night before to ensure a calm, stress-free morning.

Habit 9: Protect Your Energy and Focus

If you are putting more effort into academics, you cannot drain your energy on things that do not support your goals. Midnight scrolling is not beneficial. It is not your “me time". You are setting up tomorrow for failure. That means putting your phone across the room when studying, using Do Not Disturb, studying in 45-50 minute sessions, saying no to plans that will drain you, and going to bed at a reasonable time. 

Habit 10: End the Day with a Night Reset

To make tomorrow as productive and successful as today, you need to end today with intention. A clean space, clear mind, and direct purpose for tomorrow will help you sleep better and regain your energy. What you can do: 

• Lay out your clothes for tomorrow

• Put away anything out of place

• Review tomorrow’s tasks

• Set your intentions/pray/journal

Do not start all 10 of these habits at once, or it will be impossible to stay consistent. Pick 1-2 of these habits to begin with, then build from there as you feel more consistent. If you want a simple way to keep track of your tasks, check out the Study Strong Schedules to stay organized and productive.

As always, thank you so much for joining me today! Comment below and tell me which 2 habits you will start today!

Love, 

Juliet & Study Strong

Breaking Down Extracurriculars & Passion Projects

Quick! You have 100 clubs to choose from! Which ones actually matter? Will you join something, start something, or create a passion project? What’s the difference? Extracurriculars are things that you do outside of school and/or work. This can be a sport, a club, community service, and so much more. This is what sets you apart and shows your personality on college applications. Passion projects take it a step further.  Passion projects are self-directed projects based on your personal interest, creativity, or skill development and driven by personal fulfillment rather than external requirements. These can be initiatives, research, nonprofits, etc. But, how do you choose what fits you best? How do you stand out?

1. What Colleges Actually Look For:

Let’s face it. Everyone is doing the same things. Everyone has the same GPA, ACT score, community service, and clubs. To fight this, you not only have to stand out with your college essays but also in your activities outside of school.

Depth over Breadth: 

Colleges don’t want to see you in 12 clubs that you are not involved in and make an impact in. They want to see a spike, one or two areas where you were engaged, took on responsibilities, built skills, and created measurable change. This shows your personality, commitment, and ability to develop expertise. You can choose any club or extracurricular, but ensure that you are actually doing, creating, or achieving something.

Consistency:

Colleges value activities that span years, not weeks. They want to see your growth, which will foreshadow how you will grow in college.

 (Tip: show what you can bring to the table for them. They want successful students, publicity, and money. How can you do this for them?) 

Staying consistent in your club and growing in it shows that you aren’t just joining things for your resume; you are actually invested. Consistent involvement also shows discipline, follow-through, and reliability, especially if you create measurable change.

Leadership, Initiative, & Impact:

Colleges are not just looking for titles. They are looking for influence. How have you impacted those around you? 

• Leadership: This could be an official role (president, captain, editor), but it could also be unofficial (starting a project, mentoring, organizing initiatives, competing in events)

• Initiative: This is where you show your drive. Create, improve, launch, or solve something. This can be founding a club, creating a replicable event, starting a tutoring program, etc. 

• Impact: These are the results of what you did. Include numbers, statistics, and improvements made. (people served, money raised, members recruited, awards won) Impact shows that you did not just participate, you contributed and made measurable change.

Passion and Authenticity:

Colleges can immediately tell when a student joins random activities for their resume or college apps. This is why you need to show authenticity and set yourself apart. Authentic activities are ones you genuinely enjoy, stick with, and grow in naturally. To show passion, show your interest, effort, and time. When you are passionate and authentic, your application feels real and believable. 

Alignment with Your Future Major or Goals:

Not every activity must relate to your major, but at least a few should hint at your academic interests and passions. This helps colleges understand your direction, goals, and personality, and it makes your application more coherent. 

EX: 

Political Science = debate, student government, Model UN, journalism, service projects, etc.

Pre-med = HOSA, volunteering, science fairs

Business = entrepreneurship, finance clubs, community fundraising

(Tip: don’t become too predictable with these, or you will end up looking like everyone else. Show your personality, diversity, and passions. For example, join 2 clubs based on your academic path and one based on a hobby.)

2. Types of Extracurriculars

There are many different types of extracurriculars to choose from, and I recommend having one from at least 3 of these categories. 

1. Academic and Career-Aligned Activities: These are your core clubs, such as Honor Society, BETA, HOSA, FCCLA. FBLA, DECA, FFA, etc. They should align with your passions, but are broad enough to allow you to create your own path. 

2. Leadership Roles: Technically, you can have a leadership role in any of these categories, but they are important enough to warrant their own section. To show commitment to college admissions officers (or anyone reviewing your high school career), you need to illustrate an upward trend in your involvement. (ex: Member to Officer to President)

3. Service and Community Work: No matter what field you are going into, you need community service hours. Not only does this show selflessness and commitment, but it also helps you become a better person in general. This can be volunteering at RIFA, writing cards to local nursing homes, or even developing a project to assist underserved children. 

4. Creative/Artistic/Athletic Endeavors: This is the “keeps me sane” category. These endeavors need to be something you enjoy outside of school, something unique to you. For me, it’s writing. For one of my friends, it’s painting. Any hobby or creative output that keeps you from going insane is perfect.

5. Unusual or Independent Activities: The final catch-all. This can be work, family responsibilities, a business, or anything else that does not fit in the above categories. If these activities affect the rest of your extracurriculars or school work, you must include that in your college application to ensure that admissions officers know your balance. 

   3. How to Choose the Right Extracurriculars

Ask yourself these questions:

• What am I naturally drawn to?

• What aligns with my future major?

• What problems do I care about solving?

• Where can I realistically grow into leadership?

Once you have answered those, find opportunities (not only at your school!) that align with your answers. Again, I recommend choosing 1 activity from 2-4 of the extracurricular categories above to maintain diversity. Once you choose, commit. Don’t dabble. Don’t stay stagnant. Branch out, look for roles with responsibility, and make real change.

4. What is a Passion Project?

Passion projects are self-started, self-driven projects or initiatives that seek to solve a problem, fill a gap, or reflect your own personal values. It’s something you pursue because it matters to you, not because a teacher assigned it or a college asked for it. They are usually scalable, shareable, and community-driven. The best part? You can make it yours. You build it from the ground up until it becomes part of you. Colleges love passion projects because they show your personality, story, leadership, creativity, commitment, and so much more. In the process of creating a passion project, you discover incredible things about yourself and learn real, tangible skills. Examples of passion projects:

• A tutoring program

• A research or writing project

• A product, business, or event

• An online platform

5. How to Start a Passion Project

Starting a passion project is not a strict formula, but here is a simple framework to guide you. 

Step 1: Identify a need or passion

Step 2: Create a plan (who, what, when, how)

Step 3: Start small

Step 4: Document (!!!) and track impact

Step 5: Share your work (website, social media, presentations)

Step 6: Scale or replicate (only if appropriate)

As you begin or continue your extracurricular journey, keep these things in mind:

• Don’t overdo it immediately. You will burn out.

• Don’t just chase prestige. Chase passion. 

• Actually follow through with what you plan, and do it well.

• Document!! You need proof of your hard work!!

• Depth > Quantity

Extracurriculars can be confusing and stressful, but they can also be an outlet. Make sure that you are choosing things that you enjoy, that inspire you instead of draining you. Your activities should tell the story of who you are becoming. Depth creates your story, but passion gives it color. I hope this has helped you find that. 

Thank you for joining me today! If you ever want to talk about school, life, or anything in between, my email and DMs are always open! Comment below/DM/email me with the extracurriculars or passion project that you are choosing so I can hold you accountable!! 

Love, 

Juliet & Study Strong

How to Know What You Want: Shifting Through the Noise

We have all been asked the question: “What do you want to be when you grow up?” Some of us know instantly, but most of us have no idea. In today’s world, it’s difficult to decipher what you actually want. With constant input from social media, teachers, parents, and other students, it’s easy to lose sight of your true path. It’s easy to get stuck in this cycle of comparison and imitation, but there is a way to break free and discover what you truly want.

The Problem

Before we solve the problem, we must genuinely understand it. Why is it so hard to know what you want? Why can’t you decide what your career will be? What goals will you have? Who are you? Continuous social media overload and viewing the highlights of others' lives can lead to comparison. How are you able to discover what you want if you consistently compare your life to others? Additionally, opinions from parents, teachers, and friends can cloud your judgement and make your self-discovery journey even more difficult. This can lead to you chasing achievements for validation, rather than for your own passion. Before you can chase goals, you have to know which ones are truly yours.

The Self-Discovery Process

Step 1: Quiet the Noise

• Take breaks from social media.

• Journal or go on walks alone.

• Listen for what feels right, not what looks right online.

Step 2: Ask Real Questions (Perfect for journaling!)

• What excites me even when no one is watching?

• What kind of person do I want to become, not just what do I want to have?

• What is most valuable to me? (ex: impact, freedom, creativity, etc.)

Step 3: Experiment and Reflect

• You can’t figure it all out in your head – try new things!

• Join clubs, start projects, volunteer.

• Notice what gives you energy vs. what drains it. What makes you feel alive?

It’s Okay if You Don’t Know Yet

Discovering who you are and who you want to be isn’t easy, and you don’t have to have it all figured out immediately. Clarity comes from action, not pressure. Try  new things, step out of your comfort zone, and stay consistent. Self-discovery is a process. You don’t have to know immediately, and you don’t have to make a permanent, one-time decision. 

But remember this: You will not find yourself through scrolling or listening to the noise around you. You find yourself by showing up everyday for you. Have the courage to define your own version of success. 

This week, take 15 minutes to think and journal about what you want, not what you think you should want. You might be surprised by what comes up. Comment below or DM me: What’s one thing you truly want for yourself right now? I would love to hear from you!

If you are interested in hearing more about self-discovery and meeting your potential, check out one of my newest blog posts: “You Were Made for More: How to Maximize Your Potential.”

RISE. LEAD. SUCCEED.

Love,

 Juliet and Study Strong

How to Perform Like a Leader

Leadership is not a title. It is not a position. It is a mindset: an established set of attitudes, habits, and actions. A position or a title is not necessary to perform like a leader, but a certain mindset makes a significant difference. For example, I have seen countless “leaders” in executive positions who struggle with poor communication, lack of empathy, micromanagement, and an unclear vision for the future. On the contrary, I have seen leaders who have no title whatsoever, but who embody every characteristic necessary of an executive. The difference? Their set of attitudes, habits, and actions. Their mindset. Let’s break this mindset down into actionable steps for you to perform your best as a leader.  

1. The Attitudes of a Leader

Leadership does not start at the appointment to a position. It starts with the way you carry yourself, how you treat others, and your mental traits. Leaders possess:

• Confidence, without arrogance.

• Responsibility over blame.

• A clear vision and forward-thinking.

• Resilience through challenges.

But, how can you gain these qualities? In my opinion, the easiest way to adopt these traits is to pretend to embody them already. Fake it till you make it. It’s a cliche, but it’s well-known for a reason. Pretend that you already possess these traits (even by creating an alter ego!) and make the conscious choice every day to perform in the path of the traits. For example, you might have made a mistake in a group project that led to a bad grade. A leader would not blame this mistake on another member of the group; they would own up to it, apologize, and correct it. Once you start taking actions in the path of these traits, you will begin embodying them. You lead first by mastering your own mind. 

2. The Habits of a Leader

One of the most influential books I have ever read is Atomic Habits by James Clear, in which Clear dives into the effect that simple, consistent habits have on your life. Habits are the key to creating change. What you do consistently matters much more than what you say. Leaders do these things consistently:

• Plan each day with intention

• Continually learn and improve

• Practice discipline and time management

• Communicate with clarity and empathy

• Reflect and journal progress

These habits can easily be integrated into your daily routine. For example, every night you can reflect and journal about your day, then you can plan tomorrow. You can ask those around you for feedback or perform a life audit in order to consistently improve. You can create a schedule of your tasks (ChatGPT is great for this!) to practice discipline and time management. The possibilities are endless. This week, try implementing 1 habit from this list and stick to it. Maybe even plan a reward for the very end of the week if you stick to the habit successfully!

3. The Actions of a Leader

Now that we have established your attitude and habits, it is time to move onto your actions. Progress is not made without real, actionable change, and we will be diving into just that. Leaders take these actions:

• Take initiative before being asked

• Lead with service and humility

• Give credit and take accountability

• Inspire and elevate others

These small actions not only change your perception of yourself, but also others’ perception of you. This is when you really become a leader. For instance, you can ask your boss or teacher what you can do to help or get ahead. This signals to your brain that you are someone that takes action and initiative before being asked. Then, you will unconsciously perform this action more because it fits the perception you have of yourself. (a form of cognitive dissonance!) Try taking initiative this week, and watch yourself slowly morph into the leader you have wished to be.

When your attitude, habits, and actions line up, you will create real change in your life. I encourage you to take 1 step in each category (attitude, habits, actions) this week and document your progress. Next week, look back on your progress, reward yourself, and add on another step from each category. Slowly, but surely, you will grow into a leader. Don’t wait for the title or position– perform here, perform now.

Which 3 steps will you implement this week? Drop it in the comments, DM my instagram (@studystrongbusiness), or connect with me on LinkedIn (www.linkedin.com/in/juliet-barker-0226b0387) I would love to chat with you!

Share this post with someone who inspires you to lead!

If you are interested in how I grew my leadership skills and started Study Strong, check out one of my older blogs, “Dream It, Do It: My Business Story & How You Can Start Yours.”

RISE. LEAD. SUCCEED.

Love,

Juliet & Study Strong

You Were Made for More: How to Maximize Your Potential

Have you ever felt called to something? Have you ever felt like you were meant for something, but weren’t sure how to reach it? This feeling is real and extremely special. You were made for more. More than average. More than petty gossip. More than the status quo. You were made for bigger, better things. The question is: how do you realize this potential and grow into it? Let’s break it down.

1. Recognize the Call

Usually, this calling occurs when coming out of a slump or when discovering a passion. When it has yet to be discovered, it can make you feel restless and frustrated because you know something is off in your life, but you don’t know what. Sometimes, it can lead you to dislike being around those who indulge in things you know are not benefitting you or pushing you forward on your destined path. This desire for growth – for more – is not selfish; it is your purpose.

2. Define Your “More”

Next, how do you bring this feeling to life? How do you know what you were made for? There are countless ways to discover and define your “more.” If you have no idea what your “more” is, get more involved. Branch out. Try new things. Join new clubs. Through this process, you can experience so many different things, which can lead to the discovery of your passion. After you discover this passion, put it into words. Write it down. Journal about it. Become so engrossed in it that you have no choice but to follow it. 

3. Align Your Actions with Your Vision

Now that your passions and potential are defined, you need to actually work towards maximizing it. Build a daily routine that feeds into your passion. If you feel passionate about working with animals, then carve out time daily or weekly to volunteer at a local shelter. If you feel passionate about working in healthcare, spend time interning at hospitals. If you are passionate about politics, then devote time to reading news from many different sources. Nurture your passion, and it will grow into potential. This also requires shifts in your mindset and with those you surround yourself with. You will go nowhere if you constantly put yourself down or spend time with those who indulge in things that you don’t want to be a part of. Choose your mindset and choose your friends. The rest will flow from there.

4. Take Bold Steps Forward

This is something that I am currently working on, too. Stepping out of your comfort zone and acting on things can only help you grow more. When you act, you build confidence for yourself and momentum in your work. So, please, if you feel passionate about something, go for it. Do not wait. Step out of your comfort zone and realize that you were made for so much more. 

Now it is your turn. It is time to find your passion, your purpose, and your potential. I challenge you to take one step today. Join a club, talk to new people, or even just research something that you are interested in. Find your potential, then maximize it. 

If you want to read more about organization, passions, studying, writing, or even the ACT, check out my other blogs: www.study-strong.com/blog

I am so grateful that you were here with me today, and I can’t wait to see you next time! Comment below what step you are taking today

RISE.LEAD.SUCCEED

Love, 

Juliet & Study Strong

How to Stay Organized When Life Isn't

With school, extracurriculars, and life kicking up, it’s become harder and harder to stay organized. We are constantly rushing around and going from task to task with no rhyme or reason. Unfortunately, life will always feel messy. There is always some task to be done, some event to attend, or some problem to be solved. The key isn’t avoiding the chaos, it’s learning how to stay organized amidst it.

1. Write it Down

The first step to becoming organized is writing everything down. When you are constantly thinking of things you need to do while doing other things, you will never be able to focus enough to finish. At the beginning or end of each day, take a piece of paper and write down everything. Tasks, dates, future opportunities, etc. This “brain dump” will immediately make you more focused and more able to do your work. Once everything is written down, you can start breaking it into steps.

2. Breaking Big Goals into Small Steps

After you have your list of to-dos, it is time to break it down. (You might want to grab a calendar for this one! Check out my new custom ones: www.study-strong.com/shop) Your larger goals, such as lab reports, essays, or reading, can be broken down across days. For example, if you have an essay due in two weeks, write one paragraph a night. This reduces the overwhelm of a big project and allows you to tackle it day-by-day. Now that your tasks are manageable, it’s time to schedule them.

3. Time Blocking and Scheduling

We have our goals broken down, now we need to find time to complete them. (You really do need a calendar for this: www.study-strong.com/shop) Having a to-do list is one thing, but making time to complete your to-do list is everything. Start off by finding the time that you work best. For example, I work best extremely early in the morning. (I am actually writing this at 5:00 am…) For others, they might work best late at night, around noon, or in the evening. Find the time that you are the most efficient, and schedule your hardest tasks during that time. This helps decrease procrastination because you are completing your hardest tasks when you are the most productive, which will send you into a more productive workflow later. Next, you need to find the right tools.

4. Tools That Work

After writing your tasks down, breaking them up, and finding time to do them, you need to compile it in one place. This is where my new custom calendars can come in handy. They are structured for each month with space on each day to write down all of your tasks. (They also come in an array of cute colors and patterns!) If you are more of a day-to-day calendar person, I have that too! The “Ultimate Customizable Study Schedule” is perfect for you! With these calendars and schedules, you can become exceptionally organized in life, school, and more!

5. Give Yourself Grace

Remember, organization does not equal perfection. There will be days that life gets in the way and you won’t be able to complete everything. That is okay. When life doesn't go as planned, breathe, reschedule your tasks, and embrace flexibility. The goal is not to be perfect, it’s to feel more in control.

Life may not be organized, but you can be. I definitely encourage you to check out my new calendars and study schedules – they will make a huge difference: www.study-strong.com/shop. If you found any part of this post inspiring or worthwhile, please share it to someone who needs it! If you have any more organization tips, feel free to leave them in the comments below!

RISE. LEAD. SUCCEED.

Love, 

Juliet and Study Strong

From Scribbles to Standouts: How to Write Better

I used to spend hours rewriting essays to find the perfect mix of tones, words, and structure. I could never seem to find that perfect balance that so many of my favorite authors seemed to grasp so effortlessly. Spoiler: it wasn’t their big words or their long sentences that stood out; it was their strategy. So, if you have ever stared at a blank page and thought “Where do I even start?” – you’re not alone. The truth is, writing well isn’t about being born with talent. It’s about learning strategies and practicing consistently. Let’s break down how to turn your scribbles to standout writing.

The Foundation of Good Writing

Whether you are writing an essay, an email, or even a simple social media caption, your words shape how others see you. But, what does writing well even mean? First, your reader should never have to work to understand what you mean. Clarity beats complication every time. So, instead of choosing uncommon words that your audience will not understand, choose words that fit your writing and your readers. Second, you want to focus on structure. Think of writing like building a house. Without a strong foundation, it all collapses. This means that your writing should have organization and a common idea throughout. No one wants to read a story that starts with dragons and ends with mermaids. Last, build your style. Craft your writing to fit a consistent tone or theme. For example, if you want your writing to feel moody, add vocabulary that describes that feeling: dark, gloomy, morose. You need to build a picture for your reader, no matter what you are writing about.

Practical Strategies to Write Better

1. Read More, Write More

Through reading, you are exposed to different writing styles, vocabulary, and tones. This can not only expand your own writing, but it can also grow your comprehension skills. 

Tip: Copy down a sentence you admire from a book and rewrite it in your own words.

2. Plan Before You Write

To keep your writing structured and comprehensive, you need to plan before you write. Jot down your main idea or purpose for your writing and 2-3 points that support it. From there, you can structure your writing to read smoothly and comprehensively.

Example: Before an essay, write your thesis in one sentence. That becomes your “north star.” Follow this thesis to the very end.

3. Strong Thesis / Main Idea

Every piece of writing should have one clear purpose. Not only does this need to be extremely clear through your writing, but it also needs to be strong enough to have 2-3 points that can support it.

Exercise: After writing, ask yourself: can I sum up my piece in one sentence? If not, it’s not focused enough.

4. Use Evidence & Explanation

After forming your thesis, you need evidence to back it up. Don’t just drop facts – explain why they matter.

Example: Instead of “Social media affects teens,” say “Social media affects teens by shaping their self-esteem, because likes and comments often become measures of self-worth.”

5. Choose Words With Purpose

As explained before, your word choice needs to fit your writing and your audience. Swap your weak verbs, nouns, and adjectives for stronger, more descriptive ones. In some writing, you might need a more concise and direct tone, so choose less descriptive words. Additionally, avoid filler words such as “really,” “very,” and “just.”

Example: Instead of “She was very angry,” try “She slammed the door.”

6. Revise Ruthlessly

Your first draft will be messy, but that’s okay! Make sure to revise your writing multiple times. I recommend reviewing it yourself multiple times, then asking a trusted person to look over it, too. Check for grammar, word choice, spelling, etc.

Tip: After writing, cut 10% of your words. You’ll usually find fluff you don’t need.

Ways to Practice Outside of School

How can you improve consistently, even when it’s not for a grade? 

• Daily Journaling: Write 5 minutes about your day — no pressure, just practice.

• Summarize Articles/Books: Take a news article and explain it in 3 sentences. It builds clarity.

• Micro-Writing: Challenge yourself to explain something complex in one sentence.
  Example: Summarize “Romeo and Juliet” in a single sentence.

• Peer Feedback: Share with a friend and ask: “What’s one part that confused you?”

Writing better isn’t about being perfect. It’s about showing up, practicing, and refining. Every sentence you write is a chance to sharpen your thinking. And the more you practice, the stronger your voice can become. I encourage you to pick one strategy from this post and try it this week. You’ll be surprised at how much better your writing feels.

Want more? Join Study Strong Plus: www.study-strong.com/studystrongplus

Drop the strategy that you are using this week in the comments below!

RISE. LEAD. SUCCEED.

Love, 

  Juliet & Study Strong

Ace Your ACT: A Step-by-Step Study Plan for Busy Students

If I say ACT, what is your first reaction? Your heart begins to race? Your stomach drops? You become nauseous? What if I told you that there is a way to erase those feelings and ace your next ACT? To accomplish this, you must have a strategic approach. The ACT isn’t just a test—it’s a four-hour opportunity to show colleges exactly what you’re capable of. But without a plan, it can feel like staring at a mountain with no trail map. Let’s change that.

Understanding the ACT’s Structure:

So, what exactly is the ACT? To begin building your test-taking confidence, you must first understand the format of the ACT. According to act.org, “The ACT test is a curriculum-based education and career planning tool for high school students that assesses the mastery of college readiness standards.” It usually consists of 5 sections: Math, English, Science, Reading, and an optional Writing section. However, a new, enhanced version of the ACT test has been released. The new amount of time and questions breakdown is as follows:

Math: 45 questions, 50 minutes

English: 50 questions, 35 minutes

Science: 40 questions, 40 minutes

Reading: 36 questions, 40 minutes

Writing: 1 essay prompt, 40 minutes

In addition to these time changes, the new ACT test will include embedded field testing, an optional science section, and reduced answer choices. These changes are a huge benefit to future test-takers. With fewer questions and more time, you are able to allot more attention to each question, further improving your chances of scoring higher. 

Set Your Goal:

Next, you must set a goal. Just stating that you want to get a high score is not enough – make it specific, measurable, attainable, relevant, and timely. Make it SMART. If your goal is to get into a specific university, start by researching that university’s average ACT score. That is your goal. Additionally, you want to ensure that your goal is realistic, but still ambitious. You need something to work towards, but not something that could disappoint you. 

Create a Study Plan:

Next, create a study plan. Start by breaking down the time between now and your next ACT test. I suggest allotting 3-4 months of preparation, but even 1 week will suffice. Then, you need to determine how dedicated you will be to studying. If you know you only have extra time on Sundays, schedule ACT studying workblocks every Sunday. You will only see progress if you stay consistent, so make sure that you are scheduling realistically. I would also recommend scheduling time to take full practice tests to simulate the real test. The more comfortable you are with the test, time restraints, and environment, the better you will do on test day.

Section-by-Section Strategies:

First, I would recommend purchasing the Official Act Prep Guide to help you prepare. This is what I have always used to study, and it is a true game-changer. You can find it at this link: https://www.act.org/content/act/en/products-and-services/the-act/test-preparation/act-subject-guides.html

If this book is not in your budget, that is absolutely okay! There are so many free resources on websites, Youtube, etc. Here is a list of my favorite strategies:

• English: Review grammar rules, punctuation, and concision. DO NOT (!!) read the full grammar passages!! Only read a sentence or two before the underlined portion. Reading the full passage is an enormous waste of time.

• Math: Focus on your weak spots, memorize formulas, and practice without a calculator. Math is probably the most standard-based test. You honestly need to know how to solve each problem, which means taking the required math classes. 

• Reading: Practice pacing, active reading, and answering questions. Again, I recommend not reading the whole passage. Read the questions first, then search for the answers in the passage.

• Science: Look for patterns in data, skim (DO NOT FULLY READ) for key variables, and practice interpreting graphs. In my opinion, the science section is not about science at all. It’s about interpretation. 

In conclusion, you need to find the strategies that work for you. If you do better reading the full passages, then answering questions, then do that. Find your strategies. If you need more help, definitely check out PrepPros on Youtube. They are extremely helpful in breaking down each section, including last minute tips.

Test Day Game Plan:

Below are a few tips to remember for your next test day:

• Sleep well the night before.

• Eat a protein-rich breakfast.

• Bring pencils, ID, calculator, snacks, and your admission ticket.

• Pace yourself!

• Answer every question — there’s no penalty for guessing

No matter your score, this test does not define you. The ACT is one part of your college application and your high school career, but the effort you put into preparing teaches discipline that lasts beyond test day. I wish you the best in your testing journey!

RISE. LEAD. SUCCEED.

Love, 

Juliet & Study Strong

How to Romanticize Your Study Routine (and Actually Enjoy It)

Do you ever see those “study-tok” influencers grinding away at their goals and think, “How do they stay so consistent?” One word: romanticize. These influencers don’t study just to study (but kudos to you if you can!) – they study because it is romantic. They genuinely enjoy sitting down every day to light a candle, savor a warm beverage, and truly immerse themselves in their work. But how can you do the same?

Let’s break it down first. Romanticizing is not just “setting the mood.” It involves turning ordinary, mundane moments into romantic, special ones. Romanticizing can help boost motivation, reduce burnout, and make studying something you actually want to do. Absolutely anything can be romanticized with the right tricks, and you can learn them right now.

Set the Mood: Create an Aesthetic Space:

• Clean your desk or working space and add cozy or aesthetic touches (candles, plants, string lights, etc.).

• Use matching stationery or a cute planner that makes you excited to open it.

• Bonus: Change your phone/computer wallpaper to a calming or motivating image (or something that screams aesthetic to you).

Make it a Whole Moment:

• Choose a study playlist that fits your mood: lo-fi, classical, acoustic, or instrumental movie soundtracks. (trust me: the Hamilton soundtrack is a GAME CHANGER)

• Try warm lighting or study in natural sunlight for a dreamy, cozy feel.

• Optional: Use a diffuser with a soft scent like lavender or vanilla. (Bonus tip: use this specific scent anytime you study to train your brain to “lock in” every time you smell it)

Romanticize Your Tools:

• Use pens and notebooks you love to write with. (I love the Midliner ones!)

• Decorate your notes or study guides with color coding or light doodles – make it you.

• Digital study? Use apps with aesthetic themes like Notion or Goodnotes. (And check out my downloadable study templates!)

Romanticize the Routine, Not Just the Space:

• Start your study session with a small ritual (ex: lighting a candle, making tea, journaling 3 intentions) to signal to your brain that it’s time to work.

• Romantic routines: Study “café” at home, Sunday reset planning, or sunset study sessions.

Incorporate Joys or Rewards:

• Reward yourself with small treats: a fun drink, a 10-minute reading break, or a walk outside.

• Try romantic visuals: sit by a window while it rains, dress cute even at home, or use a fancy mug.

• Romanticize the why—remember you are studying for your dream life.

Make Studying Feel Cinematic:

• Pretend you're the main character in a coming-of-age film preparing for his/her big future. Alternatively, pretend you are a specific character (ex: Rory Gilmore, Blair Waldorf, etc.)

• Take aesthetic study clips to make it feel even more meaningful. (you don’t have to post it!) 

• Romanticize the grind — not because it’s easy, but because it’s worth it.

Stay Consistent:

• Romanticizing helps, but routines still need consistency and discipline.

• Keep it realistic: even 25 minutes with a candle and playlist is a win!

• Adjust your routine based on your mood and energy, but keep the vibe alive.

You don’t need to wait for motivation. You can create it with atmosphere and intention.

Challenge: What is one thing you can romanticize today? Maybe your drive to school? Your shower routine? Cleaning your room? 

Thank you so much for being here with me today! Have fun romanticizing!

RISE. LEAD. SUCCEED.

Love, 

Juliet & Study Strong

From Overwhelmed to Organized: Reset Your Study Life in 7 Days

If your to-do list is haunting you, your notes are all over the place, and you’re drowning in deadlines–this blog post is your reset button. Whether you’re mid-semester or just starting out, here’s how to go from chaos to clarity in just 7 days. 

Every August for years, I entered the school year so excited to have a schedule, new opportunities, and structure in my life again; however, the excitement and structure never really stuck. Every year I tried and every year I failed to have a routine down, a plan in order, and a set path to follow. Every year I stressed over school, extracurriculars, and getting enough sleep to function on a normal basis. If this sounds like you, you don’t need a new planner or aesthetic desk setup to feel in control again– you need a system. Let’s build one together, step-by-step.

The 7-Day Reset Plan:

By following this 7-Day Reset Plan, you can finally feel back in control. Each day has a small, doable task that builds toward a sustainable study system.

• Day 1: Brain Dump + Clarity Check

1. Write down everything on your mind: deadlines, projects, worries, personal stressors, etc. By clearing your mind, you can focus on completing your tasks rather than stressing about them.

2. Group them into categories (school, personal, extracurricular)

3. Identify what’s urgent, what’s important, and what’s just background noise. Complete your urgent tasks first and move down from there. Take a 5-10 minute break after each 45 minute work session. 

• Day 2: Clean Your Study Space

1. Declutter your desk or workplace. (This also includes your work bag!)

2. Organize supplies, throw away old papers, and refresh your space.

3. Optional: Create a calming study playlist or scent association (like a candle or essential oil.) ONLY use this playlist and scent when you are studying. By training your brain to recognize these when it’s time to study, you can become more focused and productive. 

• Day 3: Fix Your Calendar

1. Set up a digital or paper calendar (I prefer paper so you can physically mark things off!)

2. Plug in all due dates, test days, meetings, etc.

3. Tip: Use color-coding or apps like Google Calendar, Notion, or a Study Strong printable. (Check out the FREE Study Strong Starter Kit: https://forms.gle/mEyNgoPE5TDMnUmJ8) 

• Day 4: Build a Weekly Routine

1. Block in fixed commitments (school, clubs, sports, etc.)

2. Add study blocks, self-care time, and breaks.

3. Make it realistic! This isn’t about being busy– it’s about being intentional.

• Day 5: Organize Your Notes + Files

1. Digital: Sort your Google Drive or Microsoft OneDrive by class.

2. Paper: Use labeled folders, binders, or accordion files.

3. Pro tip: Pick 1 day a week to stay on top of this moving forward. (I usually use Sunday!)

• Day 6: Make a Study Game Plan

1. Choose your go-to study strategies (Pomodoro, active recall, blurting, etc.)

2. Tip: Check out my “Your Summer 2025 Academic Glow-Up” blog post for more study strategy tips!

3. Write down how you’ll approach different subjects.

4. Try one strategy today with a subject or project you’ve been avoiding.

• Day 7: Reflect + Set Goals

1. Journal how you feel after the reset.

2. Set goals for the next 3 months (ex: raise your math grade, turn in everything on time, read 1 book, etc.)

3. Remind yourself: progress > perfection.

Bonus Download: “Your 7- Day Reset Checklist”

As a special treat for reading this blog post, I’m offering a free PDF that you can download with a summary of the plan, checkboxes, and some Study Strong motivation. If you want to level-up even more, join Study Strong Plus, where you can receive free PDF packs for every occasion!

Grab the PDF here: https://forms.gle/73AKocfjCGD8z1NG7

If you’ve made it to the end of this post, you’re already making progress. Organization isn’t about being perfect–it’s about building systems that work for you. This is your fresh start. You’ve got this.

What part of your study life needs the biggest reset right now? Drop it in the comments below!

Need custom tools to support your study goals? Check out the Study Starter Pack and other resources at www.study-strong.com!

RISE. LEAD. SUCCEED.

Love, 

Juliet & Study Strong

Journaling for Student Success: 10 Prompts to Gain Clarity & Confidence

Between homework, grades, extracurriculars, and planning for the future, student life can feel overwhelming. This is where my favorite habit comes in: journaling. 

Journaling isn’t just about writing—it’s a powerful tool to process events, set goals, reduce stress, and boost confidence. Your entire life can change when you start putting your thoughts, beliefs, and desires onto paper. These 10 prompts will help you begin your journaling journey by gaining clarity on your goals, shifting your mindset, and building daily confidence.

Quote: “The more you know yourself, the more clarity there is. Self-knowledge has no end.” — Jiddu Krishnamurti

Why Journaling Works For Students:

So many people– including me– talk about journaling and its benefits, but does it really work? 

Yes. And science has proven it.

A 2018 study published in JMIR Mental Health found that expressive writing (one form being journaling) for just 15–20 minutes a day over three days significantly reduced symptoms of anxiety and depression in young adults. Journaling has also been shown to improve focus and academic performance—making it the perfect addition to your Study Strong journey.

Some of the most successful leaders and creators in the world, such as Tam Kaur (author of The Self-Obsessed Journal—my favorite journal), Oprah Winfrey, Emma Watson, Ryan Holiday, Tim Ferriss, and even Lady Gaga, use journaling as their secret weapon—and you can too.

How to Start Journaling (Even if You’re Busy or New to It):

No matter how packed your schedule is or how new you are to journaling, there’s a method that works for you.

Start small. I recommend using a tool like The Five Minute Journal, or simply pick one prompt from the list below each day to answer. Personally, I journal once in the morning and once at night—but there’s no required time or structure.

Remember: There’s no “right” way to journal—just write what feels honest.

10 Powerful Prompts for Clarity & Confidence:

What is something I’m proud of from this week?

Celebrating your wins–no matter how small– builds lasting confidence.

What is one thing I can do today to move closer to my goals?

Taking small steps daily and shifting your focus from stress to action will help you achieve your goals faster.

What are three qualities I like about myself?

Self-love and self-worth fuel personal and academic success.

What’s draining my energy—and how can I release it?

Identify what is holding you back, then reclaim your energy.

What does my dream life as a student look like?

Create your vision and act on it. You can do anything you set your mind to.

What fear is holding me back, and how can I face it?

Journaling reveals subconscious fears, and gives you space to face them.

How would I speak to my best friend if they were in my shoes?

Practice compassion and kindness towards yourself.

What does success mean to me—not others?

Define success on your own terms and pursue authentic goals.

What do I want to learn, explore, or get better at this month?

Always look for opportunities for growth, big or small.

What’s one limiting belief I’m ready to rewrite?

Changing your inner dialogue leads to long-term confidence.

Journaling has endless benefits—but only if you stay consistent and honest in your entries. When you revisit old journal pages, you’ll see how much you’ve grown and discover patterns that guide your next steps.

This week, I challenge you to try one journaling prompt from the list above every day.

Want more self-growth materials like this?
Download the FREE Study Strong Starter Kit here:

https://forms.gle/CXLXmZPKyAiAPj4Z6

RISE. LEAD. SUCCEED.

Love, 

Juliet & Study Strong

Dream It, Do It: My Business Story & How You Can Start Yours

It all begins with an idea. Maybe you want to start a business. Maybe you want to turn a passion into something more. Or maybe you want to help others. No matter what you want to do, you must start by starting.

It sounds so simple, but it is a mistake that so many make daily. The number of amazing ideas that have the potential to become successful initiatives, businesses, or projects, but rather remain ideas because of a lack of action, continues to grow. At Study Strong, we are determined to change this.

Before I dive into how I launched my business from the ground up, I encourage you to add 2 things to your Study Strong cart: The Ultimate Goal-Setter Tracker and The Ultimate Customizable Study Schedule. These items will not only help you turn your ideas into actions, but they will also help you grow into your best self. 

1. The Idea: 

Study Strong, and many other businesses, begin with a single thought. For me, it was, “What if I could help students succeed in school and in their personal lives?” When taking the freshman class AP Human Geography, I struggled to balance my clubs, other classes, personal life, and the terrifying idea of an AP test at the end of the semester. Then, I discovered my academic savior, study schedules. I created one from scratch and tailored it to my work-load and the time I had allotted before the big AP test. Eventually, my schedule was sent around to the others in my grade as they used it to cram for the big exam. I didn’t think much of it, until my AP Human Geography teacher approached me to tell me that he had a higher number of students pass, and furthermore make a 5, on the AP exam than he ever had. This sparked that infamous “What if?” thought within me, and I began working on Study Strong. Now, a year later, I am writing this blog as I publish my business. The idea must occur first and foremost, and it must be something you are willing to put time and work into.

2. The Plan:

Your idea will go nowhere without a plan. I have experienced this first-hand. Though I felt very passionate about Study Strong, I rarely put work into it because I felt overwhelmed about the prospect of opening a business. Finally, I worked out a “Study Strong Launch Plan,” and the ball began to roll. I went through multiple name changes, product trials, and website issues until I found what fit my business. Not only did a written-out plan clear up the fog in my mind, but it also gave me specific steps that I could set time limits for, forcing me to work on Study Strong efficiently. 

3. The Publish:

Once you feel confident in your business, it is finally time to send it out into the world! This seems daunting at first, especially when you feel as if your product is not perfect. But the harsh truth is that your business will never be perfect. No matter how much time, work, blood, sweat, and tears you put into it, your business will never be absolutely perfect. The trick is to just publish it. Do it anyway. There will be many kinks to work out and many failures, but your business will be out in the world, and you can grow from there. 

4. The Growth:

Now for the hard part. Your business must have a set path for growth. You must expand, develop, and reach new horizons with each update, product launch, or email. I encourage you to gather as much information as possible in this stage. Who is your target audience? How can you reach them? What style of Instagram post will reach the largest number of people? Read books, listen to podcasts, and learn as much as you can about marketing and growing your business. 

If you are just starting your business journey or if this is your fourth business this year, I wish you luck in your endeavors. No matter how many setbacks, remember that you will succeed with hard work, determination, and passion. Though this first blog entry was about business, don’t worry! We will get to the nuts and bolts of academics and leadership soon! Thank you so much for joining me today, and I look forward to seeing you next week as we dive into “Your Summer 2025 Academic Glow-Up”!

RISE. LEAD. SUCCEED. 

Love, 

Juliet & Study Strong