The spring semester always seems to sneak up on me, as I’m sure it does for many other students as well. The long winter break and the excitement of the holidays can make it hard to get back into a productive mindset. Motivation is especially hard to come by during the winter months, when all I want to do is curl up with my cat and a good book, but I have found that getting into productive habits early in the semester will not only reduce my stress, but also keep my grades on track even if I burn out towards the end.
Finding motivation for schoolwork is what I struggle with the most and I have found several tricks that improve my productivity. Here are my top 5 tips to start your semester on the right foot:
- Routine, routine, routine.
In my experience, it is much easier to be productive when it is built into your day and it becomes a habit. One of the things that I struggle with when returning to campus after a long break is falling back into a daily routine. Obviously, a new semester comes with a new class schedule, which is a great place to start when building productivity into your routine. Try to plan time in between classes to study in the library, workout, or take a break and spend time on a hobby. As a visual person, I like to write out my daily tasks as a way to start a new routine until it becomes a habit. Make sure that when you schedule this productive time, that you commit to whatever task you plan to do. Limit distractions and find a comfortable environment that will allow you to focus. Using your spare time to fit in studying or assignments will reduce procrastination and in turn, reduce your stress. Although, it is also important to schedule breaks and rest as well, which brings me to my next tip.
2. Rest can be productive too.
Productivity is a very rewarding feeling and it is human nature to be proud of accomplishing tasks. However, as a person with ADHD, I know that burnout is all too real. There is a delicate balance to productivity. It is important to accomplish goals and complete tasks, yes, but it is equally as important to nourish your mind, body, and soul with rest and enjoyment. While you are building your daily routine, be sure to carve out some time to relax and do things that you enjoy. Whether you start your day or end your day with it, everyone needs time to do the things that bring them joy and relaxation.
Another way that rest is helpful is during long or complex tasks. Taking breaks from a difficult task or assignment will make you come back with a fresh mind, ready to tackle the problem again. I also find that switching tasks when I get stuck on one helps me to come back to it later more refreshed.
3. Reward yourself.
I know it may seem childish or immature to reward yourself for a simple task, however Gen Z is the generation dedicated to treating themselves, so I suggest applying this mindset to your to-do list. Make a deal with yourself that if you finish a long paper you can go get a coffee, or if you clean the whole house you get pizza instead of cooking dinner. Use whatever reward will motivate you the most, but this technique only works if you are disciplined and honest with yourself. I personally started using this method last spring when I was feeling particularly unmotivated with school and, while I still didn’t love doing the work, I did become much more productive.
4. Make time to move.
Endorphins are powerful chemicals when it comes to boosting your mood and, in turn, boosting your motivation. Endorphins are “feel-good chemicals” that our bodies release during physical activity. Feeling good and having an elevated mood lead to higher productivity and motivation. Therefore, physical activity is a great way to increase your motivation and productivity for work or school. Finding time to move your body will not only release endorphins, but it can also give you an opportunity to get outside or spend time with friends. Exercise doesn’t have to just be going to a gym. You could go for a walk, hike, go for a bike ride, take a yoga class, or find a sport like sand volleyball or tennis to take up for fun. I have found that even a quick 10-minute walk can make a big difference in my energy levels, so I highly encourage you to try finding time for movement.
5. Set a small goal for each day.
While there are things that need to be done every day, I like to make a list of other tasks or assignments that need to be done for the week. Seeing all of the tasks laid out may be overwhelming at first, but every day I like to give myself a small goal such as “complete 2 tasks on the list today.” Having a small goal each day will allow you to get the most important things done and you will feel accomplished without being overwhelmed. Setting reasonable, daily expectations for yourself will improve your productivity, reduce stress, and give you a sense of accomplishment each day.