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Motivation
Sometimes students find themselves gradually falling behind and losing motivation as the weeks go by, it can be easy to slip into an avoidant mindset and fall even further behind.
In moments like these it is important to be honest with yourself, no matter what the issue, if you actively seek a solution, you can get back on track in no time.
Sometimes our absence of motivation stems from a lack of confidence which builds into fear, if you are struggling academically book an appointments with our Academic Skills Advice Team
Below, you’ll find some useful Do’s and Don’t for motivating yourself to study.
Get started
The hardest part of doing anything is getting started. If you find just starting the hardest part, then just set yourself small targets. For example, set a time limit of just 10 minutes or decide to read just one page. You are likely to find that once you’ve started you will want to do more.
Break the task down into manageable chunks
A big task, such as writing a dissertation, or revising for an extended period, can be demotivating because it seems so big. Breaking the task down into manageable chunks can therefore help make it seem less daunting and easier to start, building up a study plan can help you keep on track and avoid feeling overwhelmed.
Think about your future
Thinking about your goals for the future can help you stay motivated with what you’re doing in the present. Think of how your degree will help you in your quest for your dream job and consider the valuable skills you’ve gained so far.
Address your fears
If you’re procrastinating because you’re afraid of something, try to identify your fears and resolve them. For example, if you’re afraid that your writing won’t be good enough, you can say to yourself that your goal is to just start by getting something written down, and that you can always improve it later.
Reward Yourself
If you have achieved your aims for the study session, then reward yourself. If its taking a break to watch an episode of your current binge or a phone call to a friend. When you reward yourself, you will continue to be motivated and driven towards the task helping build healthy motivation habits, just avoid sweets as a treat!
Don’t Struggle in Silence
It can be quite embarrassing to admit that you are not up to speed with the module content or assignment brief but what is worse is losing time avoiding a task when seeking guidance from your lecturer or Personal Academic tutor might remove any doubts you have allowing you to breathe and work.
Don't let your studying take over your life
Nobody can just study without a break, de-stressing and taking time for yourself is an important part of being able to keep motivated. If you torture yourself at your desk eventually you will lose the desire to return. It is important to build in time for family, friends, and exercise, to keep you feeling healthy in mind and body.
Don't study in discomfort
Find the right environment to study, make sure it has good lighting, ventilation and is quiet. Study at a time which works best for you be it morning or night, it is best when there are likely to be fewer distractions. Get into the right frame of mind, set out a plan and stick to it, make sure you take breaks to keep your energy levels up.
If you continue to struggle don’t hesitate to reach out for support. There are lots of ways of getting support, find out more in our ‘Talk to Someone’ section.
