You’ve hit the point of no return.
Midterm on Tuesday, paper due Wednesday, work on Thursday—where does it end? Unfortunately it doesn’t. But you have mentally checked out and lack any sort of intrinsic motivation to finish strong. Welcome to winter quarter limbo: destination: library, checkout time: (seemingly) never.
It’s hard to explain this phenomenon that so many of us experience. We want to try—we really do—however, no matter how hard we try it’s almost as if our brain is physically turned off, and the switch is broken to turn it back on.
The question is not whether you want to pass your classes or not, because of course you do. You are at a highly prestigious school, honored to increase your knowledge in the most profound ways, surrounded by a breath-taking city. These feelings are obviously not a reflection on your strong work ethic.
On the other hand though, you can’t help but feel occasionally lazy, tired and overworked. After all, how many hours of sleep did you get last night? Exactly. You are working harder than words could describe, but time is moving so slow and as academics become tougher, you become more tired. The cycle is vicious but inevitable.
Well, I want you to know that you are not alone. These feelings are normal and you are entitled to binge-watch Netflix for countless hours instead of studying. I’m not judging—but I am concerned for your sanity. So I have composed a short guide on how to overcome what I call the “winter quarter lull.”
First, take study breaks! I can’t stress this enough and how commonly it is overlooked. Part of your fatigue is because you are immensely wearing yourself down and not giving your mind a break to think non-academically for a second.
Whether your study techniques include cramming or spreading it out, remember to schedule time for a short break when studying for long periods of time. It allows you to simply rejuvenate temporarily, and come back to your material refreshed. I think we can all agree that studying is most effective when you are focused and calm.
Second, find time for yourself. Whether this is working out, watching your favorite show or even napping, it is crucial to balance your time socially and academically with personal downtime.
You may feel that you don’t have time, but setting aside even 30 minutes will be a decision you will thank yourself for later.
Thirdly, cut yourself a break! I mean it! I believe I can speak for most people when I say we are so hard on ourselves all the time. As long as you are trying your best, you have already succeeded. Don’t set such high expectations that you know you physically can’t achieve.
Balance your schedule and time. At the end of the day, you are ultimately the only person who knows best what will make you happy. Your time at Cal Poly is too short to be worrying the entire time.
Save yourself from this winter quarter lull—it is possible. By making some “you” time, you can avoid overworking yourself and survive this terrible mental state us quarter system kids sadly have to suffer from.
Hang in there. Spring quarter brings much promise—I can feel it. Finish strong fellow Mustangs.