It’s getting to that point of the school year where students are at their limit. The sun is starting to shine, but we can’t get away from studying long enough to see it. I’m definitely starting to notice my motivation levels depleting. I’m not always able to push through the doom and gloom of burnout, but I know some ways to keep it at bay.
1. Get A Planner
I think the first time I used a planner was when I was forced to do so in middle school. My teachers gave them to all of the students, telling us what homework to write down and whatever else to track. The habit might not have stuck with everybody, but I’ve used a planner ever since. I love seeing everything I have to get done laid out in front of me. Yes, sometimes it’s stressful to see my week full of bullet points, but it’s great for visualizing what needs to be a priority, and what can be pushed off a little. It definitely helps me manage my time and know what I need to put my energy into based on what is due first.
2. Change Study Locations
Doing your homework and studying in the same place all the time can make these tasks feel extra bland and redundant. Schoolwork is often already pretty boring, so changing the place you complete your work can make it seem a little more exciting. Michigan State University’s campus has many great study spots that I go to when my dorm isn’t motivating enough. Studying at the MSU Union is perfect because I can get a coffee from Strange Matter or a combo at Sparty’s, and then study among the other students. Somewhere outside is also nice, especially when spring comes, like in chairs by the Red Cedar or in the Beal Botanical Gardens. Anywhere that makes studying easier and more fun than usual is a great way to gain back some motivation.
3. Take Breaks
I am someone who can’t relax until all of my homework is done. However, this often leads to me being exhausted after doing work for a couple hours. Taking little breaks while you’re studying can help you do it for longer without getting so tired. I also personally believe it helps your attention span because you’re letting your brain take a moment to rest and decompress. Taking a break could mean getting a snack and drink, watching a short show or video, taking a quick walk outside, or really anything. Just remember to come back!
4. Separate Work From Fun
Something to think about while studying is how much you need to leave space for both studying and fun. Sometimes, the two can blend together and it feels like you’re half-doing both. When you separate work and fun, you can put all of your energy into both of them and live in the moment more. I’m not the best at this, but I’ve noticed that if I lock myself into studying, I get it done faster and am left with a better product too. I’m also aware that when I get ahead of my work and don’t have anything due for a while, I can have much more fun with friends or doing something else I enjoy.
5. Blend Work And Fun?
On that note though, there are times where I’m extra exhausted and am really in need of some fun. Yet, I still have homework to do. If my homework is not too demanding of my attention and I can work on it passively, I’ll probably put a TV show or movie on in the background. This sometimes helps me work better because then I’m not too bored or fatigued while doing busy work. Nevertheless, if you notice that it’s distracting you more than helping, maybe it’s time to separate the two again.
Academic burnout can sometimes creep up regardless of how you try to prevent it. My tips might not always prevent it, but they can at least help your brain take a moment to relax and remember that while working hard is good, moderation is key.