The end-of-semester dilemma
In the final few weeks of the semester, I’m finding it harder and harder to focus on anything that isn’t a Law and Order: SVU marathon. Despite that, I’m also finding it harder to keep my nerves under control as my professors pile on the final projects, papers and exams.
Out of desperation I’ve taken to drinking large amounts of espresso hoping that will break my lethargy and snap my brain into focus (note: it does quite the opposite).
After so many failed attempts at doing anything productive, I’ve decided it’s time to figure out how to keep my focus in check.
Start with a plan: When there’s too much to do and no discernible order to do it in, I shut down. To Do lists are great, but they can sometimes come across as overwhelming. Giving some of those tasks a timeline or some semblance of order can make sure things get done, and in a prioritized manner.
Reward yourself: Nobody wants to study or work on homework for eight hours straight. Setting reachable goals and promising yourself a reward like 15 minutes of Facebook time or a chance to watch your favorite TV show can motivate you to get more done in a more productive manner. Personally, I have a problem with skipping the hard work and going straight to the reward, so it might be back to the drawing board for me on this one.
Start small: Expecting yourself to focus for a full three hours right off the bat may be impossible. If you know you have trouble concentrating, start with a less daunting amount of time (maybe just half an hour to start). As you get better, it will be easier to maintain focus for a longer amount of time.
Don’t get discouraged: Everyone slips up, whether it’s cheating on a day of a workout routine or skiving off a day of school or work. Sometimes it’s necessary to have a break and relax, but this doesn’t have to be a return to previously unfocused habits. Starting on a clean slate the next day puts the slipup behind you and lets you start over revitalized.
I’m writing this after a weekend where I accomplished maybe one-third of what I originally planned. It doesn’t feel very good doling out advice I can’t even follow, so I’m hoping to take my own fourth suggestion to heart and start fresh tomorrow.
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