1. honesty
Before I begin, this post is not a tutorial for an aesthetic, perfect study session. Or productivity for productivity’s sake. This schedule is realistic, flexible and has worked for me lately. (for aesthetic, you need to check out comforts ;)).
2. before
Before, studying would feel exhausting, and I believed my self worth was equated to my grades. I used to think studying harder and longer would get me the grades I dreamed of. The first step is always to reflect and redefine those toxic beliefs. Your self worth does not come from completing an impossible workload that you’ve put off for one night- mental fatigue does. But, many students (like you and I) feel impossibly guilty when putting off school work to rest.
3. mindset shift
During my junior year, i’ve learned that studying doesn’t have to hurt to count. It’s like that cliche saying “quality over quantity.” Your consistency matters more than the intensity. In other words, studying 30 minutes every day of the week (or even five out of seven) helps you way more than once for 4 hours. Repetition helps our brains process information a lot better than the pressure of knowing it all in one sitting.
4. efficient studying (avoiding burnout)
Finally, the way I’ve been studying recently. The first thing I always do is make a to-do list (usually on Microsoft to-do). This helps me map out exactly what I need to get accomplished and when. I use shorter study blocks (about 30 minutes) and take a break in between. No, not a one-hour doom scroll break; a quick snack or putting my head down. I also know what my body needs and if I feel super tired to the point where I know I’m not retaining any information, I will sleep. Similarly, I take “off” days when needed. Occasionally, I will go out with my friends on a school day, putting off some work, and thats okay!
5. environment
The environment in which I study in surprisingly affects how well I study. When i’m out with friends at a cafe, I tend to study more because I am motivated (and having fun). When I’m around others, it helps me understand things better, and I have a person to ask questions to! (thats not google).
6. what I still struggle with
Although I have found ways to study that works for me, I still run into some obstacles. I mainly struggle with procrastination. I sometimes want to read, or work on my blog, or play my guitar, or watch Pretty Little Liars (I’m on season 7 hehe) instead of working on homework. It is okay to take off days but I occasionally take too many.
7. you are enough
Before I go, I just want to state that you are enough. Good or bad study habits, I know you can improve and be your best self. Feel free to comment your favorite study tips that I need to try!
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