As we are right in the middle of the most hectic time of the school year, finding motivation to study becomes difficult. That initial excitement that was there when the semester started just isn’t there anymore. You’re so used to your daily routine that it’s second nature by now, classes have an overwhelming amount of work, and you’re not meeting anybody new. Let’s face it — new beginnings add a little glitter to a situation, and when it’s not a new beginning anymore, the glitter starts fading. So, how can you bring that glitter back? One great way is through romanticization, AKA making something seem more appealing than it really is. By changing the way you view studying, you might find yourself looking forward to it. That way, studying transforms from a tedious chore to a hobby. Try these tips to romanticize your studying!
- Listen to Music That Makes You Feel Studious
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I went from studying in silence to listening to a classical piano playlist, and it has made a huge difference. Instead of feeling like I was in my boring, everyday life, the classic piano made me feel like I was in the ancient halls of Hogwarts (the magic school from Harry Potter). Of course, you don’t only have to listen to classical music to make you feel like you’re somewhere else. Any type of music that makes you visualize yourself in a more aesthetic place will work. Maybe Y2K pop music will make you feel like Elle Woods from Legally Blonde, or soft indie music will make you feel like Rory Gilmore from Gilmore Girls. It’s all up to you!
- Find A New Study Spot
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Going to the same study spot every time you have work to do is nice at first, but eventually, just the thought of going to that place makes you unmotivated. Switch it up! There are tons of really cute study spots around the UMass Amherst campus. Although the library is nice and quiet, the same grey walls just aren’t the vibe. For example, the greenhouse by Central has several benches that are perfect for studying and is perfect for plant lovers! Take some time to find spots on campus that are visually appealing to you and that give you that cute, perfect study vibe.
- Use colors
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Is it fun to read notes that are pages long with just bland text over and over? And how much do you actually retain from that? My guess is that it’s not very fun, and you don’t retain all that much. Invest in some cute highlighters to make note-taking more fun and memorable! Adding a fun detail to an otherwise boring task will make you look forward to those lecture slides. And when you’re using them to study later, you won’t drown in rows of black-and-white letters.
- lightly scented candles
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If you like to study in your room, investing in scented candles is a really cute way to create a more comfortable atmosphere. The happy feelings you get from hearing the crackle of a candle and smelling a cozy scent will take over the negative feelings of studying. Not only that, but candles can help you relax a little bit, easing those feelings of stress that studying often brings.
- Wear cute outfits
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Let’s be honest, going to class in your pajamas and a hoodie is comfy, but does that give you any energy or make you feel excited to learn? Wearing something that makes you feel cute is an instant mood booster. Again, pretending like you’re the main character from a certain movie or show makes you so much more excited to get out of your dorm and go study!
I hope I’ve inspired you to start romanticizing your study sessions and take a new approach to getting your work done. Work hard and finish the semester strong — happy studying!
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