So, the summer has ended and the year of painful learning and no fun begins, right? Wrong! Despite popular beliefs, school doesn't have to be so bad. A confined, stuffy classroom can become an exciting learning opportunity if you only try to see things differently. Here are eight things you can do to make this the best school year ever.

Do what is fun for you.

Use your personality and interests to find ways to have a good time. Spending time with friends is great, but allow yourself to have a good time when they aren't around as well. For example, take a walk on your own while listening to your favorite song.

Don't change yourself for other people.

It is such a hassle trying to be prettier, smarter, or funnier for your peers. Why not just stop caring and be yourself? You, with all your quirks and imperfections, are beautiful. Believe that you hold awesomeness inside of you and just give up on being a people-pleaser.

Take care of yourself.

If you do, you will be more confident, stronger, and become better in your schoolwork. Eat healthy, drink water, and work out. It's easy to get so lost in the excitement of school that you forget to take care of your body. Install healthy habits now, while it's still early in the year.

Spend time with God.

This one's a biggy. What are you going to turn to when you feel frustrated or exhausted? Give your worries to God. He will always be there for you, and He wants to help you. Pray daily- not in shame or as an after-thought, but pray with faith and thankfulness. Study the Bible. The Bible is like the ultimate hand guide for a Christian life. Let's be real: we can't get through the day without some uplifting scripture.

Be diligent in your schoolwork and work hard to get good grades.

Don't make the mistake of skipping homework to lounge around. As you get older, life will consistently demand you to be responsible. So take these moments to practice develop self-discipline.

Build strong relationships with friends.

Don't lock yourself up. Have healthy interactions with other human beings. Make friends and constantly build those relationships up. Having someone you can share stories with is an amazing gift. Have an accountability partner that makes you a better person.

Take time to smile and laugh.

Who says you always have to be so serious at school? Enjoy your time and enjoy life. Think happy thoughts and stop worrying. Don't spend time being afraid of your future or questioning your abilities.

Oh, and buy a unicorn costume. Because, why not?