After a long relaxing week of not going to class everyday, sometimes it’s hard to get back in to the swing of things. Deadlines are approaching faster and faster and students are getting out their calculators figuring out the lowest possible grades they can make while still having a good GPA. After passing the halfway mark, motivation seems to decrease, so here are some tips to stay focused and make the end of this semester as good as the beginning.
1.Find a new study spot: As far as cold weather goes, we have not had much. But this half of the semester pretty much marks the point where you can count on it being hot. If going to that same library cubicle is bumming you out, reminding you too much of work and boredom after returning from an adventurous spring break, change your location. Grab your hammock and string it up somewhere, or try out a coffee place with a nice study vibe like downstairs at 929 or upstairs at StrangeBrew.
2.Use your planner: And if you don’t have one – get one. Writing down all your due dates and responsibilities can feel overwhelming at times, but it is the best way to stay on top of your game. Marking off all you to-do’s for the day can be very rewarding. Side Note: Colorful sticky notes can make the task more fun.
3.Make relaxation time: Along with scheduling your school responsibilities, you should plan your days out including breaks, naps and Netflix. This will take away that guilty “what am I forgetting to do right now” feeling and help you fully enjoy your leisure time.
4.Limit the time you spend on social media : A quick way to bum yourself out after a nice vacation is to scroll down a bunch of pictures of other people on vacation. Try to schedule points throughout your day where you set aside time for Instagram and Facebook, so you can focus on school.
5.Make a summer goal list: This is prime time to start planning the perfect summer. Whether you’re wanting to save money for a dream vacation, lose or gain weight, or simply be able to relax and tan, starting to plan now will give you enough time to reach your goals AND will give you something to look forward to, motivating you to power through the end of this semester.
6.Make a new playlist: Put together a list of some of your old and new favorite songs, one that you want to learn and ones that you were obsessed with in eighth grade. A new mixture of your favorite songs will put you in a better mind set when walking to class, working out or studying.
7.GO TO CLASS: The spring break blues can put you in a slump, and cause you to just want to take a break or give up. Push yourself to go to class and work hard to turn those midterm C’s into B’s into A’s.This is an awesome part of the school year because you’ve already figured out how your teachers grade and you know where you stand in each class. Get your calculators out and find out what you’re going to have to do in order to get that GPA where you want it. Hint: Going to class is always helpful.