Spring semester has officaly started. Whether you are just starting or about to graduate, we all have a difficult time focusing in college at some point.
It can become overwhelming to stay focused in college sometimes. There has been a lot of changes within the past two years. Some students are now back on college campuses after a year of virtual learning. It can be frustrating in these circumstances to refocus and become disciplined. It’s super common to have no motivation to do anything, counting the weeks until it’s over, even seeing how many points we need for particular grades. It can be difficult to balance school, work, activities, family, and friends while in college but it’s nothing to cause worry. There are plenty of tips and resources available to help throughout college, both mentally and physically. Remember, college is not a race. Different circumstances do arise but, the end goal is greater. Here is a list of six tips to help you throughout the spring semester.
1. Rest your body
It is so important not to be sleep-deprived just to stay up all night writing that paper. When getting enough rest, your body begins to do things easier – you’re more energetic, able to focus better, and multitask without feeling burnt out. Take the time you need to reset. Sleepytime teas and essential oils for a good night’s rest. They can help set the right vibe for your nightly routine.
2. Music is your best friend!
Make a playlist with songs that helps with motivation or relaxation. Music streaming apps such as Apple Music and Spotify have pre-made playlists for any genre. Music is a great way to reset and escape for a while. Also, instrumental music can help you stay focused when studying or doing assignments. Youtube and even Pandora are also a couple of platforms to use.
3. Schedule things ahead of time. No procrastination.
Procrastination is a pain killer for most. For example, when a deadline is approaching the 11:59 mark, it feels as if rushing is the only option. Try a different approach this semester. Try investing in a planner for deadlines or a whiteboard calendar. That way you can plan out the weeks/months to stay on top of things and stay focused. It helps to write things out to gain direction, help with being consistent, and establish time management. Take the time out of your day for at least 30 mins to an hour and do your assignments. Remember that you are human and procrastination is a pain but, do not let it take over.
4. Fuel your body
The body needs good nutrients to function! Being busy throughout the days can sometimes lead to forgetting to eat or eat once or twice a day. Even if it’s a snack here and there, make sure to eat. For college students on a budget, some tips to try out: have a meal prep plan, coupon to get discounts on groceries and snacks, and set a reminder on the phone to ensure you don’t skip meals. Utilizing Tik Tok and Pinterest can be a helpful guide to improve eating habits. The Pinterest app allows its users to create broads while Tik Tok has become a search engine for anything and everything from recipes to meal prep plans.
5. Exercise
Exercise can be a stress reliever. Working out at least 2-3 days a week for a minimum 30mins can help give the body energy. As stated before, utilizing Tik Tok and Pinterest can help find easy warm-ups and workouts to do. A good thing about exercising is the choice of doing it at home or the gym. A personal trainer can be another option or using Youtube to look at full workouts.
6. Put yourself first
College is truly an experience; an exciting journey. The best moments involve making life-long friends, opening doors for multiple resources, and other opportunities for future endeavors. However, it can be overwhelming to juggle a social life, attend classes, possibly work, and do other pursuits. Then it seems as there is no personal time in between. Of course, things happen and can be thrown off track. But a great tip is to find a moment of personal time. A change of scenery such as a coffee shop, the library, or a nice restaurant can help. There is nothing wrong with having a self-care day.
What are some of your tips to stay focused in college? If you’re interested in more helpful college content, follow MEFeater on Twitter, Instagram, Facebook, and Pinterest for more updates!