By Isabelle Serrano
As we inch closer to spring break, it’s hard for our excitement not to be overshadowed by the dread of homework, tests, and projects that we still have to complete before our week of freedom. Although I wish I could spend my time looking for cute swimsuits, I know I need to stay motivated and get my work done. Since I’m sure many of us are dealing with the same dilemma, here are a few tips for how to stay motivated during these next two weeks.
Utilize a to-do list, calendar, or planner
One of my favorite ways to stay organized and motivated is to make a daily to-do list of what I need to get done for the day. I’ll write down when I have class, work I need to complete, if I’m getting meals with friends, and even basic tasks like doing laundry or cleaning my room. By visually seeing everything written out in a checklist, it’s really easy for me to stay focused. Plus, it’s always nice to feel a sense of accomplishment when everything is checked off at the end of the day. I also like to write all of my big assignments down in a physical planner so I can look ahead each month to see what I need to get started on. Google Calendar is an easy tool to use, as well, since it’s already attached to your phone. Find what works best for you!
Find a space where you’re most productive
Finding somewhere on or off campus where you can zone in on work is the key to staying motivated. Through trial and error, I’ve finally found that working in Camino’s on campus allows me to really stay focused and get into a good workflow. It’s usually where I feel the most productive and tune everything else out. Maybe you work best in the library or your dorm. Or maybe you’ve found a coffee shop off campus that allows you to be your most motivated self. As long as the space is conducive to your learning and studying, it doesn’t matter where you work. Different people work well in different environments!
Keep snacks and water nearby
If I’m hungry or thirsty, I have a hard time focusing on my work because I’m only thinking about getting something to eat or drink. If you’re working somewhere on or off campus that has food and drinks, it’s easy to take a small break to refuel yourself. However, if you’re working somewhere that doesn’t have anything to satisfy your hunger or thirst, that can cause you to feel restless and frustrated. If you know you’re going to be somewhere that doesn’t have any food or drinks, make sure to bring some snacks and water along with you so you can refuel while you work.
Take breaks
As much as we all wish we could get our work done for the day in one sitting, that’s rarely possible. It’s important to take breaks throughout the day so our minds don’t become overworked and we don’t become more stressed than we already are. Whether you take a break by scrolling through TikTok, going to the Pit, working out, or walking to Reynolda Village, make sure you’re actively taking time away from your work to give yourself a moment to reset.
Be kind to yourself
Ultimately, just because I give you all of these tips to be motivated doesn’t mean that they’re the magic answer to curing procrastination. We’re all human and it’s hard to always be focused-especially on things that we’re not passionate about. Be kind to yourself when you’re stressed and can’t fight the urge to take a nap or be on your phone. At the end of the day, you aren’t defined by how much work you get done or if you miss an assignment.