Do you spend most of your life and time studying? Perhaps you’re a full time uni student fresh out of high school, or you’re working your way through years 11 and 12. Or maybe you’ve gone back to study after a period of time in the workforce. Either way, studying can take up huge chunks of your time and leave you feeling like there’s nothing else in the world. So, if you’re a perfectionist and you want to nail that assignment or essay within the comforts of your own home, there’s a few things that you need to know first. Read on to find out more.
Make the Environment Right
In order to get the most out of your study time at home, you need to ensure that you have an environment that’s conducive to hitting the books. Blackout Curtains are probably a no-no, as you’ll want to let in plenty of natural light in order to fully activate your circadian rhythm and get into the swing of things. So, throw open the curtains and crack a window so you’ve got some fresh air coming in.
Having some house plants around can be a great help too. Plants just make us feel good for some strange reason, and some varieties like Spider plants are really good at scrubbing the air clean so you’re breathing plenty of fresh oxygen which will help you focus and stay on track.
Avoid the Urge
When you’re studying and have a deadline you’d be surprised at how tempting the urge to procrastinate can be. Suddenly the fridge needs a clean, the floors need a vacuum, you’ll dig out those old computer games or become very very interested in that new series on Netflix. You need to put off this urge as much as you can. If it helps, try to build a reward system into your studying at home. Write for an hour, or read and take notes for an hour, and then break for 15 minutes and engage in an enjoyable activity or have a healthy snack. Speaking of snacks…
Keep an Eye on Your Diet
Eating processed, fatty and salty foods can be tempting while studying because they’re quick and easy but they can leave you bloated, tired and unmotivated. So, switch those potato chips for a carrot, chocolate for some chickpeas and sweet biscuits for rice crackers. When you’re nibbling on some healthy snacks you’ll feel heaps more energised and ready to get some solid study done.
Minimise Distractions
You want to avoid as much external stimuli as possible and really focus on your task. This means switching off the TV, the stereo and finding a nice quiet corner to sit and study in. If you share your space with others, try to lock yourself in your room if you have a desk in there. If you don’t then ask your housefellows to be mindful while you’re studying and hopefully they’ll respect your wishes and you can study in peace.
Good Luck!
You’ll need it, because study is hard work. Make sure you have a pleasant environment to hit the books in, with plenty of natural light, fresh air and house plants. You’ll want to procrastinate but avoid the urge and reward yourself for good solid chunks of study. Pass on the salty, sweet and processed foods and instead choose fresh and healthy alternatives. Minimise your external stimuli and distractions and you have a recipe for study success. Finally, remember to come up for air and enjoy some leisure time at the end of it all, because you’ve earned it.
Like this article? Share with your friends!