Go easy on your parents. They only want you to do well and get into a good college. But, you should sit your ’rents down and tell them that all this pressure is freaking you out. Let them know that you’re gonna do your best, but their expectations are set way too high. Instead of creating an impossible standard, sit down with M&D and talk about some goals that aren’t grade-based. Discuss what you’d like to do better this year, whether it’s joining the soccer team (even though they’re pushing for tennis) or improving your PowerPoint presentation skills.

Remember, sweetie: This is your life. Doing everything your parents want you to do is great…if you want to do all of those things, too. But if they’re pushing you to be someone you’re not, you need to let them know and then start thinking about the person you want to be and how to become that person. Life is about doing—and succeeding—at what you love.