Time management: Balancing academics and extra-curricular activities

Junior high school students' management of their time appropriately is a must because they need to adjust to their academic needs and participate in extra-curricular activities at the same time. This study aimed to determine the relationship between time management, academic performance, and extra-curricular activities of junior high school students and to provide valuable insights and practical strategies to effectively balance academic and extracurricular activities, fostering holistic development and academic success. This study utilized a mixed-method research design. Researcher-made questionnaires were used to gather the needed data. There were 359 participants from Grade 7 to Grade 10. Complementing the quantitative findings, qualitative data were collected through in-depth interviews. The level of time management practices of the respondents in all terms is classified as “high.” The level of academic performance of the respondents who participate in extra-curricular activities is classified as “very satisfactory.” No significant relationship was noted between respondents’ level of time management practices and their level of academic performance. On the other hand, a significant relationship between participants’ level of time management practices and their level of participation in extra-curricular activities was evident. It is concluded that individuals who are more adept at planning, organizing, and prioritizing their time are also more likely to actively participate in activities outside of their regular academic workload.