It is understandable that students are stressed and are looking for that break from their work to squeeze in some fun. I’m a big believer that stress reduces productivity and diminishes good health; it’s a dose of relaxation is necessary to success. So, fun is good. But are some people taking it too far?

With the growing popularity of the phrase “YOLO,” more and more students are opting for the free-spirited, spontaneous lifestyle. But is abandoning responsibilities to go out and have fun the objective of the saying? You can’t let productivity come to a screeching halt just to let loose for a while. Occasional stress relief is enjoyable and necessary, but the future matters. With the coming of summer, many people are getting caught up in putting work aside to have a good time.

YOLO: you only live once. That implies that every moment, even the ones dedicated to serious business, matters in your life. Every screw up counts and has the potential to negatively affect your future. Making the most of life does not mean that you need to go cliff jumping (a popular new pastime) everyday and risk your life. “YOLO” is giving students an invalid reason to forget about serious tasks. Also, safety should never be compromised while having fun. It is important to remember that your actions and adventures can have serious repercussions.

This is in no means an advocacy to dedicate all your time to school and work and cut out leisure activities from your life; just be smart about it. Be safe, have fun, and succeed.