It's that time of year again. You know, that time when all you want to do is be outside, enjoying the nice weather. That time when there is something happening every night of every weekend. That time when school is the last thing you want to think about. So, here are some pointers to get you through these last couple of weeks of the school year.
1. Write it down and cross it off.
When you are given an assignment, write it down on your agenda, to-do list, hand, whatever it may be. And when you complete the assignment or task, cross it off. Physically scratching off something so painfully time consuming is one of the best feelings of accomplishments you will get.
2. Give yourself a break.
Don't spend hours on end doing work. Sometimes your brain needs a little bit of a break after 12 hours of studying. Definitely do not spend 12 hours studying in one sitting (that's just miserable). Instead, do work in two hour intervals. After every two hours, give yourself a 15 to 20 minute break. Use this time to browse through Facebook, check Twitter, reply to emails, Insta an artsy pic. Then, get back to work.
3. Change locations.
After spending a few days studying in the same spot, find a new place to do homework. Just like songs get old after hearing them at every party, the library gets old after spending half your day there. Find a quiet cafe, go to a dining hall, or hit up a study room. A change in scenery can spice thing up a little, keep you on your toes, and get you hype for studying -- maybe.
4. Phone a friend.
When you are stuck on a problem, call up a friend in your class and ask them for help. Whether they know what they are doing or not, it's comforting to know that you are not the only one struggling through the last bit of the semester.
5. Exercise.
Whether you are into running, cycling, weightlifting, yoga, or just walking, try to fit some sort of physical activity into your day. Exercise has been proven to relieve stress, and many people tend to feel more energized after working out.
6. Reward yourself.
It is never a bad idea to give yourself a little pat on the back after a job well done. When you have finished taking your last test for a class, treat yourself to some ice cream. When you make it through the day without skipping class, take a quick nap. When submit your article for The Odyssey by midnight on Sunday night, have a piece of chocolate. Rewards can be the best motivation.
7. Keep a countdown.
Sometimes, the best motivation is just seeing the day that you'll be home-free. Count down the days until finals are over and all you have to worry about is whether you will wake up in time for lunch and whether you have on enough suntan lotion.
Don't worry, friends. You won't be brain dead for much longer.
