We all know how difficult it can be to get back into study rhythm after a three-month long break – even if you’re excited about your studies. But don’t fret! With our tips you’ll make the transition from holidaying to studying as smooth as possible.
(C) Thomas Leuthard
Kick the day off right
Do you have a habit of pressing snooze one too many times and then running to class – only to find yourself dozing off halfway through the day in stuffy lecture halls? Ditch the snooze by placing your alarm far away from your bed so you’ll have to get up to silence it, and set your alarm for 15 minutes earlier than you normally would. Once you’re up, get your coffee cup with you and head outside for a few minutes. Getting fresh air into your lungs and maybe moving your body by walking round the block will help you not only to wake up but to stay awake during the day. It’s a great way to start the day especially if you don’t have any breaks between classes and have to spend the whole day indoors.
Try the Pomodoro technique
Don’t even try to concentrate on studying for hours at a time. After a while, you’ll just end up scrolling through your Facebook feed. Instead, try the Pomodoro technique, where you’ll have to concentrate for just 25 minutes after which you can take a break. Log off from all social media during the 25 minutes, set an alarm, and focus only on the task at hand until it goes off. Even dull tasks seem more manageable when you know there’s a break coming soon.
Get some new swag
Even first-graders know it: There’s nothing like new cool pens and notebooks to get you into that study mode.
Arrange luch dates with your friends
Academic freedom is wonderful but sometimes it makes it hard to get motivated and actually attend lectures, especially if you don’t share any classes with your friends. However, it’s a lot easier to get out of the bed in the morning if you have a lunch date set up after your lectures. Aim to have lunch dates with your friends at least a few times a week and you’ll soon notice that you’re actually waiting to get to your classes.
Try Spotify playlists
There are numerous Spotify playlists to help with concentration. Try putting on some mellow sounds in the background while reading, and your course books might become a lot easier to handle.
Don’t be too hard on yourself
Getting back into study rhythm can take some time. Try your best but don’t be too hard on yourself. Take days off and pat yourself in the back when you’ve managed to do even just a little bit of studying. You’ll be back into your study mode before you know it!