It's the halfway point of spring semester. We have reached the point of gazing out of our windows daydreaming about the warm sand beneath our feet and being home with our families. But we still have a few weeks keeping us away from those summer nights. We need to stay motivated. I understand, though, that this is super hard when the sun is shining on you through the library window beckoning you to come out.
We have also reached the point where we have days that our workload hits us like a pound of bricks and we don't believe we can get back up. The stress can eat us alive to the point where we just want to curl up into a ball and procrastinate by taking many, many naps. This only adds more stress into your life.
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So, if you are losing your motivation a little every day, here are some tips to help gain it back:
1. Reorganize
The first thing you should do is organize your room. By the time the midpoint of the semester has come, books, bags, clothes, sheets, and everything else is a chaotic mess. This contributes to your stress, which is not good for motivation. So, take some time to clean and reorganize your life within your dorm room. Make sure your study space is set up to assist you in enjoying your homework time as much as you can.
2. Have A Visual Calendar
This is very, very helpful. We normally just have our calendars on our phones or other electronic devices. Out of sight means out of mind. So, have a calendar hanging above your desk that you write everything on during the month so you know all your deadlines. Also, carry a planner with you so that you have easy access to your schedule when you are away from your desk. If due dates are written down on paper, you can see your monthly schedule and balance getting your work done.
3. Keep A To-Do List
This goes along with keeping your calendars. Everyday have a note pad where you can write what you have to do that day. This way as you complete each task, you can cross it out, and feel that you have accomplished your goals!
4. Listen to Mood Music
Music has been proven to activate parts of our brains to help us focus and concentrate better on tasks at hand. So when you are doing work, try listening to those playlists made for studying and relaxing on Spotify, Apple Music, etc. Or try listening to music that you love that are simple in lyrics and melody. Music can improve your attention and memory as well as help with anxiety.
5. Set A Time To Relax
Plan leisure time to break up your schedule. It's critical to your success. Take time to rest and be quiet. Taking time for a breather and rejuvenation is just as important as your other activities during the day.
6. Treat Yo' Self
Remember to be good to yourself. After a long week of homework, studying and papers, reward yourself. Go to the movies, watch some television or just hang out with your friends. Playing can add joy to your day, relieve stress and recharge your batteries!
7. Know You Have A Support Group
Your family and friends understand what you are going through. They are there with you every step of the way. Know you can go to them when you are having troubles and they will be able to help. Don't forget your professors are there for you, too. They want you to succeed in their class. So don't be afraid to go to them with questions and schedule meetings. They will be happy to assist you.
8. Believe in Yourself
You have been through worse. Do not let these mid semester blues get you down. When faced with a challenge, don't say I can't to this. Say, how can I do this. You'll be amazed about what self-belief can do!
As Aibileen Clark once said, "You is kind, you is smart, you is important." Believe in yourself and you shall succeed!
