Getting back into the swing of things after a long break can be challenging, particularly after rush and the super fun snow days.
Here’s a few tips for getting motivated and ready to start second semester:
Bring back the planner-
Many of us start out the fall semester with a shiny new planner in which we intend to record all homework and important dates. However, this habit tends to fall by the wayside as the semester speeds up. As the new semester starts, try to bring back the habit of recording all important due dates and events, whether it be on your phone or in an agenda. This semester is jam-packed with work and exciting events and this habit will help you avoid missing any of them.
Re-establish a routine-
After a full snow day and a couple of half days last week, it can be tough to get back into your routine of first semester. Start off the semester right by planning out your first weeks and deciding how to manage your work and time. Sometimes schoolwork can get overlooked in the first few weeks because the load doesn’t seem to be too demanding yet, but keeping up with your schoolwork from the beginning will set a good tone for the semester.
Motivate yourself-
Use Spring Break in March as a halfway point for the semester. Most midterms will take place right before the break, so see that as a reward for two months of hard work. After Spring Break, there are lots of fun events and, of course, summer break to look forward to and motivate you through the last two months. I always find it helpful to set smaller goals and break up the semester in this way. You can also come up with other ways to reward yourself and your friends for all of your hard work. For example, plan a trip to the ice rink at the Winston-Salem Fairgrounds for an evening after a tough test. These fun, off-campus excursions can help motivate you and relieve stress.
Good luck with your spring semester! I hope these tips can help you make it more productive and enjoyable.