When it comes to the start of school, there are two types of people: those who are optimistic and ready for the new year, and those who are not. Regardless of which type you are, school is happening, so spend your time wisely. To help you make the most of this year and beyond, here are our opinions on different ways you can stay productive and lock in.
A rating of 1 indicates that the strategy won’t help or that we don’t recommend it, and a rating of 10 means it’s effective or something we strongly recommend doing.
Structured Routine
Connie: 6/10. This would work if you’re used to structured routines, but personally, I can’t stick to them aside from the routine of waking up at the same time every day. However, I can see how it’d benefit some people, especially patterns like sleeping at the same time every day.
Mia: 7/10. Routines are great for staying productive and organized! Even though it can be hard to keep up with them sometimes, it’s important to follow through with them to keep structure in your day, so your mind stays more alert. It could be as simple as waking up at the same time every day and brushing your teeth right after, or going home after school and starting your homework at the same time each day.
Good Sleeping Habits
Connie: 7/10. I, too, need to work on getting more sleep, but I find that sometimes it’s alright to get less sleep, as long as you feel awake the next morning. A good indicator for me that I’ve slept a good amount of time is if I’m waking up a bit on my own and not being forced up by an alarm. Also, waking up and sleeping at a somewhat consistent time might help with feelings of morning tiredness. Maybe give it a try and see?
Mia: 9/10. I know this is a spot to work on for all of us, but it makes a difference. Getting no sleep and surviving on loads of caffeine every day is not doing anyone good. Obviously, it can be tough to prioritize sleep with so much going on in our daily lives, but I hope you can find a few days a week where you can get a good night’s rest (at the least).
Wake Up Earlier
Connie: 4/10. I applaud anyone who has the mental fortitude to do this because there’s no way I can wake up early and still make it through the day. Sure you may feel more awake during morning classes, but the afternoon classes will become a battle to stay awake. I hate being in this scenario and would rather go back to sleep.
Mia: 8/10. I am not a morning person, but starting my school days a little earlier helps me stay more alert throughout the day. Whenever I start my mornings rushing out the door, I feel a lot more sluggish at school, compared to when I have some extra time in the morning to relax and get ready. This likely means that you’ll have to go to bed earlier depending on what time you plan to wake up, but could be a small change that makes a larger difference in your day.
Reduce Screen Time
Connie: 7/10. Even if you don’t actively delete apps (I know I didn’t during exam seasons), setting a time limit reminder on your phone might be helpful to give reminders of when maybe you’re spending just a little more time than you should scrolling or playing games.
Mia: 8/10. I know sometimes you just need to spend some time rotting in bed, or talking to your friends, but if you have something important to get done, power off your phone and put it in a separate room. Trust me, you will get whatever you have to get done much quicker than if you have your phone around, plus you will have more time to relax without having stress on your mind.
Taking Periodic Breaks
Connie: 10/10. I personally used this piece of advice to memorize scripts for my language class. I took the breaks by taking five to ten minute naps (late at night) and then reciting what I had previously learned or attempting to remember, or even memorize a new paragraph. Although it may not be the best way to memorize, it’s my personal favorite because I get to take naps while feeling productive.
Mia: 8/10. Another reused piece of advice, but it’s important to consider how you are taking these breaks. Similar to the last point, instead of scrolling on your phone in between assignments, go for a walk, make a snack, or do a couple of chores to clear your mind. You’re more likely to be more productive this way, than by risking the chance of doom scrolling and wasting your productivity.
These are just a few suggestions for how to stay productive this year, but keep in mind that these aren’t the only things you can do. As you may have noticed in our reviews, different things work for different people. We recommend that if you’re not sure on what works for you yet, just try out a bunch of methods and see what you like and what you think is best for you. Do what is best for you! Happy start of the school year and we wish everyone the best in all their exams this year!
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