There are times when we have to focus on the task at hand. (Like today I had to work on preparing a lesson. And I thought that "will I get it done in time" thought too 🙂) We can pray before, and after, and also stop what we're doing and pray; but sometimes we must place our immediate attention squarely on a task.
It sounds like you're on the right track regarding choosing God in your life thru your prayerfulness. I suggest the simple discipline of dedicating your day over to God first thing in the morning. This builds your foundation for the day. An example is getting on your knees upon getting out of bed and praying: telling God you surrender to Him and asking Him to lead you that day + praising Him so as to begin an attitude of gratitude and adoration for the day + making requests of Him. Also, reading a chapter in the Bible might really be beneficial!📖 It helps us keep focused on the things of God.
Another way of choosing God is cutting out sin... This may not be relevant to what you were asking idk, but I do know that one of the main things I have practiced that I believe has aided me in prioritizing God is viewing sin as He sees it and forsaking it through His power! Sin divides our heart. The Bible tells us specific sins and the Holy Spirit inside of us convicts us of specific sin in our lives. But we must depend on Him for the ability to turn and keep away from it.
It may sound cliche, but joining with the body of believers at church eliminates distraction too. Hearing God's Word preached and taught and discussed, corporate worship, talking with other believers about life, etc helps to keep us zoned in AND guards against wandering away from God. Church has had a huuuge impact on my life.
Take inventory of where you spend your time. I know you mentioned school and homework. What about in your free time? Do you choose to do things that draw you closer to God and honor Him?
Just food for thought! I'm not a teenager, but I remember those days. Keep seeking His face every. single. day. He will show you the way.
"7 Submit therefore to God. Resist the devil and he will flee from you. 8 Draw near to God and He will draw near to you. Cleanse your hands, you sinners; and purify your hearts, you double-minded... 10 Humble yourselves in the presence of the Lord, and He will exalt you." James 4:7,8,10
"Trust in the Lord with all your heart and do not lean on your own understanding. In all your ways acknowledge Him, and He will make your paths straight."
Proverbs 3:5,6