Study, study, study: how to find motivation

by quinn wilson

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Finding motivation to study is hard.  By now, every student knows that taking breaks is so important to stay motivated and inspired throughout the semester.  However, with a pandemic going on and classes being online, it’s hard to separate your “me-time” from your work time, and with no spring break this year, I’m definitely struggling to find the motivation to stay on top of assignments, papers, and exams. With the end of the semester nearing and work piling up, now is the time to really dig in and work hard (while still giving yourself much needed breaks).

Need some help getting motivated? Here are some simple tips to try out:

• Use a planner!  Writing down everything can be so helpful--it can help you make sure you never forget another assignment.  Planning out your day can eliminate some of your daily stress.  Make your schedule realistic and attainable.  Don’t overload yourself with studying, and make sure you add in breaks and meal times.
  
• Clean up your study space.  Having a tidy area can help you focus and stay on task.  Put away anything on your desk that can be a distraction.  Light a candle or turn on an oil diffuser, put your blue-light blocking glasses on, and get to work!
  
• Take breaks…seriously, you need breaks.  Do yourself a favor and take time to rest and relax.  Set a timer, settle down, and study hard.  As soon as that timer goes off, take a break.  Whether you like to read a book or watch Netflix, let your mind rest for a little bit.  Then back to studying!
  
• Focus on your well-being.  Besides taking breaks, it’s important to take care of your overall well-being.  Take the time to eat balanced meals (with the occasional treat 😉) and SLEEP!  Get those 7-8 hours of sleep.  Besides eating well and sleeping, getting outside and exercising is essential, as prolonged sitting can cause health problems.  Getting active can also help perk you up and give you that extra energy you need to finish those assignments. ​
  

Motivation and Study Tools You Need:

Linked: Daily Planner Journal

Linked: Santa Cruise Candle

Linked: Women's Matte Browline Blue Light Filtering Glasses

Linked: Dark Chocolate Bars

Linked: Toasty Morning Mug

For some study inspiration, I highly recommend scrolling through Pinterest or these Instagram accounts (but don’t fall into a social media hole to avoid studying):

@janicestudies: https://instagram.com/janicestudies?igshid=1xusxw1wv8bu0 

@academic.eve: https://instagram.com/academic.eve?igshid=15vhhwd3zew04

@law.study.habits: https://instagram.com/law.study.habits?igshid=v02avhridkz0

Credit: Pinterest

Credit: Pinterest

Credit: Pinterest

We’re almost to the end of the semester, so I hope this gives you the extra inspiration you need to finish strong!  Study hard (and relax), and I’ll see you next time!