With the looming presence of what feels like a billion exams and deadlines right around the corner, we are bound to become consumed by dread and stress. The university system of self-motivation contributes further to the difficulty of this time of year when it feels we may never reach the end. However, not all hope is lost as there are a variety of ways we can approach the horrors of this season and make it more manageable.
The first way to help you banish your stress is to switch up your study space. There is nothing worse than developing cabin fever for the library, especially if you tend to sit on the same floor, in the same seat, every day. This is a rooky error as your resentment will grow, and you will inevitably become less productive. It is crucial to switch it up as often as you can and explore different spaces to try and get your work done. There are so many options! Why limit yourself to studying in the Main Library, with its bright soulless lights, when you can instead go to the Law Library in Old College or the New College Library at the School of Divinity. This small act can alleviate more stress than you would think, and help you stay as fresh as possible, even if you think you are about to fall into a rut.
Another idea could be to study with a friend as, despite the belief that together you will get less work done because of the temptation to chat, it may actually help you hold each other accountable. This is particularly useful if you have a friend from a different course to work alongside as it negates the opportunity to compare yourself with each other and then ultimately leave one person feeling bad about how they have accomplished less of a specific essay, for example. Through working with a friend, the experience of preparing for an exam can be elevated from a chore to a mission to achieve success together. Also, it makes revision breaks so much more enjoyable if you have your friend there with you!
A final piece of advice would be to have something to look forward to for after your exams or your final deadline. This can be any form of treat that you can use as a reward, anything from a trip away with friends or family, to a meal out or just a meal from your favourite takeaway. By giving yourself something positive to anticipate once you reach your goal, it can help keep your morale up and motivation as high as it possibly could be.
If you incorporate any of these ideas, it is bound to help dissipate some of the burden surrounding this stressful and chaotic season. However, any work you do is great, you just have to keep going. You have got this in the bag!