Every semester, there comes a time where we simply give up on school. For most people, the energy they start off with in September doesn’t stay stagnant throughout the semester. It gradually drops lower and lower until no motivation is left. Personally, I am at that point right now, as are many of my peers. I’m assuming if you are reading this that you also are fighting the urge to stay in bed and binge-watch Netflix all day. If that is the case, here are some tips I plan on using to pick myself back up and finish off the semester strong.
1. Change up your location
If you were studying in the same spot for the whole semester, it’s time to spice things up. Maybe it’s the location that is preventing you from focusing. Try to find another corner of your space that might work better. This is a trial and error process, so have fun with it!
Related: Defeating Overwhelmingness During the Pandemic
2. Start dressing up
If you’re like me, you probably have been wearing sweats and hoodies all day, every day. If that’s the case, let’s both try to look more presentable. Taking the time out in the morning to do skincare/makeup and put on actual clothes (like jeans, remember those?) By putting in some effort, not only will you feel extra cute, you’ll want to make sure all your efforts don’t go to waste by simply lying on your bed all day.
3. Set Alarms
Planning your day and having a to-do list definitely helps. However, have you ever spent three hours on an assignment that was supposed to take you half an hour because you were too distracted? In such a situation, set an alarm for when you aim to get an assignment done before you get started. That way, you’ll be more cognizant of time. Remember to always reward yourself for some downtime after every assignment to de-stress. But, don’t forget an alarm for that, either.
Related: How to Cultivate A Personal Schedule for Distance Learning
4. Have a friend hold you accountable
Sometimes, all you need is a reality check. Just because you can’t meet up with a friend in person to study together doesn’t mean they can’t still hold you accountable. Have multiple check-ins with your friend throughout the day and report on what you both got done since the last time you spoke. It’s a fun way to still feel social while you get work done!
5. Write out your goals for the rest of the semester
It’s really easy to start slipping when you lose perspective of your goals. Once you start missing classes and assignment deadlines, it’s hard to stop and bring your focus back. So, write out your goals and place them on your desk. Remind yourself what you are working towards. If you want to take it a step further, create a vision board!
