Maintaining a sense of motivation to study every single day can seem impossible, especially when you are worn out, stressed out, or just not in the mood. The reality is that when you look at the difference between an average and exceptional student, it usually comes down to consistency. You do not feel motivation. You create motivation and keep that motivation going with your habits and mindset. Below are some methods you can use to keep yourself slightly connected to studying every day, even on a low energy day.
1. Know Your “Why” — The Importance of Having Purpose
Motivation starts with purpose. Ask yourself the question: why am I studying? There are a million reasons to study in life, whether it is related to you beloved occupation, passing your grades, or even to simply make your parents proud in their attempts. Having true desire provides direction with purpose, but it also gives you the emotional fuel to follow through. Write the “why” down on paper and place it somewhere to see every day. When you are feeling tired or unmotivated remind yourself of the reason you are studying and it will automatically ignite motivation and drive.
2. Establish and Focus on Small, Short-Term Goals
Big goals feel overwhelming and can lead to procrastination. Instead focus on small, manageable tasks and break your goals down into small victories. Rather than saying “I will study biology today”, say “I will review 2 pages of the human anatomy chapter.” A few small victories provide momentum during your studies — and the momentum nourishes motivation. Remember: progress, regardless of how small, is still progress.
3. Establish a Daily Study Schedule
Discipline often trumps motivation. Create a daily schedule in which studying is part of something we do, just like brush our teeth. Whichever time of day works best for you — morning, afternoon, or evening — make sure that is our study time and stick to it. Eventually, your brain will think of that time as a time to be focused and conscientious, and it will be easier to begin studying even during times of fatigue.
4. Reward Yourself After You Study
It always nice to have something to look forward to that we give to ourselves after we do something that is arduous. Promise yourself something small after you finish your study / work session — perhaps a 10-minute nap, some of your favorite snack, or a few minutes of social media time. When your brain associates studying with something enjoyable and pleasurable, we will want to look forward to it. This simple little trick assists the task of studying to go from an arduous task to something that we look forward to getting finished in order to reward ourselves!
5. Use the Pomodoro Technique
The Pomodoro Technique is a proven barrier to fatigue and to staying focused while studying. You study for 25 minutes, and then take a 5-minute break after 25 minutes of studying. After four "Pomodoro" periods, a break of 15–20 minutes is afforded. Doing this prevents fatigue, minimizes weariness of mind, and helps us be consistent with studying for the day.
6. Maintain a Clean and Motivating Study Space
A messy workspace can lead to a messy headspace. Make sure your workspace is free of clutter, well lit, and distraction free. Put up motivational quotes or pictures that inspire you. When your space feels calm and positive, your brain naturally becomes more awake and aware — even when you are low on energy.
7. Remove Distractions
Your phone, social media or whatever is playing in the background can quickly sap any motivation you have. Before you start studying, switch your phone to “Do Not Disturb” mode and utilize apps like Forest or Freedom to 'Disable' whatever can distract you for a period of time. Focused time with your studying, even for a little time at a time, will more effective than a long study time during which you are only half paying attention.
8. Remain Physically and Mentally Healthy
You can't stay motivated if your mind or body is depleted. Make sure you are getting enough sleep, drinking water, eating healthfully, and moving your body regularly. Exercise increases the endorphins -natural motivation hormones- that make you want to do and concentrate on tasks. Having a healthy colony can help make the mind 'want to or be ready' to be motivated.
9. Study with Friends or a Study Group
Sometimes the best way to stay motivated is not to do it yourself. Study groups can help to make learning engaging, collaborative, and motivating! You’d feel responsible to meet, share ideas, and keep on track. Be sure to stay on task because off-topic discussions can be distracting.
10. Be Kind to Yourself
Some days are going to be more difficult than others, and that is okay! Again, be kinder to yourself if you feel tired or unmotivated - motivation is not a constant! The important thing is to show up, and to try! 15 minutes of focused study is still better than nothing! Be patient, stay consistent, and believe in the process of your development.
In summary
Motivation is not about waiting around until you feel motivated; it comes with small actions, repeated and consistent; every single day. With purpose, good habits, and taking care of your mind and body, the practice of studying is more routine and less reliant on willpower. So the next time you are tired, remember this: progress does not come from waiting until you feel ready; progress comes from doing things. Keep doing; your future self will thank you!
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