We’ve made it – almost. The end of semester is within reach but for many of us, it feels like we are deep in the trenches. With long days and colder nights ahead, staying motivated can be tough. Here are some quick tips to help you push through.
New Locations
Switching up your study space can work wonders for motivation. Try venturing into spots you’ve always wanted to explore, like the prestigious law library or the classic 40 George Square (surprisingly charming from the inside). For something different, the Futures Institute offers a blend of modern spaces with a rich historical setting. One of my new favourites is Potterrow, if you get there early-ish you can enjoy the luxury of food delivered right to your table. Curly fries have earned a spot in my study survival toolkit.
Routines
At the start of each week, I like to sketch out a rough plan. This helps me to organise my lunches, ensure I’m not stuck in the same place for three days in a row, and just generally feel more in control. It also means you can factor in other activities, exercise, going on walks or meeting up with friends. As someone with minimal contact hours and so many readings, planning a rough 9-5 for the week helps me feel grounded!
Study Playlist
Consider pairing different tasks with specific types of music to set the tone of the day and boost focus. A well-chosen playlist can act as an auditory cue, helping you ease into work. Whatever kind of mood you are in, or your tastes tend to be, there’s always a new playlist to try. Lofi-beats, jazz music, instrumental musical theatre, someone even recommended brown noise – similar to white noise but with deeper tones – to me the other day. Many people report it helping with focus and concentration (https://www.sciencefocus.com/science/what-is-brown-noise). Experiment to find out what works for you!
Bribery
When uni gets tough, I’m not above bribing myself. Think of it as treating yourself as a toddler: “Two more readings or another few blocks of the pomodoro method, then I’ll get a sweet treat or a hot drink”. It works wonders. Rewards don’t have to be food-based either – try an episode of your favourite show, or even just 10 guilt-free minutes on TikTok.
Study Buddy
Pal up with your friends – nothing like a bit of peer pressure to help motivate you. All the tips above are better with company. They can help make new study spaces a little less intimidating, share playlist ideas and also brainstorm the best bribes. A sign of true friendship!
Remember why
Above all, remember why you are studying right now. Whether you have a clear post-uni plan or are still figuring things out, take pride in how far you have come. This isn’t easy – but you are doing great. Keep going – you’ve got this! Hopefully these tips will help even the toughest of study sessions to be transformed into something a little more bearable… maybe even enjoyable.
Photo by Marvin Meyer on Unsplash