As the semester continues and homework starts to pile up, it is easy to start feeling burnt out and feel your motivation wavering. The initial excitement of moving in, starting new classes, and meeting new people has begun to fade. If you feel like the work is becoming too much, these few tips may help you re-kindle the motivation you had at the start of the semester.  

Change up your study routine:

Sticking to old habits in your study routine can sometimes cause roadblocks and feel repetitive. One of the best things I have done this semester to help me stay focused and get my homework done is to find new and different locations on campus to study. Sometimes all you need is a fresh environment to help you stay motivated. Think of it almost like a bar crawl, except it’s finding a new location on campus to study at. Some other tips to change up your study routine is to listen to a different study playlist, find a study buddy, and use a new study method you have never tried. These small changes can help make studying easier and feel less like a chore.  

Staying organized:

Being organized is one of the first steps to success to not only know what work you have to do but also make sure that you are getting it done on time. Writing down everything that I have to do helps me to remember it easier which is why I like using a planner, but if you are more technology-based there are other options. Google Sheets is a great way to list out and color code all the classes and assignments that you have for you to be able to visually see what you need to do. Writing down a to-do list is also a great strategy if you just do not have the time for a planner or Google Sheets. It can help you figure out what to do for a certain day instead of planning out your whole week. 

Take breaks and prioritize self-care:

It is crucial to remember that while homework and studying are important, your mental health also matters. Taking breaks is critical to helping me study as it lets my brain rest for a bit and focus better on my work when my break is finished. One of my favorite study techniques is the Pomodoro technique where you study for twenty-five minutes and then take a break for five minutes. You repeat this cycle several times before taking longer breaks. This technique helps improve focus and prevents burnout from occurring. 

Rediscover your passion:

Schoolwork and studying can become consumed in your everyday lives. While it is an essential part of being a college student, you also have to remember why you are here. It is easy to lose sight of your goals when being lost in the rush of projects, tests, and homework. If you haven’t already try setting goals for yourself that you can go back to and check to see you if are meeting them. Take some time off every now and then hang out with friends, try new clubs, and get involved in a new sport to get your mind off of homework. The end of the semester is closer than it feels and remember that each week is closer to a well-deserved break.