A problem that many students face is a lack of motivation. Whether it be studying, finishing a paper, or just getting homework done, a lack of motivation can be extremely frustrating. But what is motivation? Where do you find it? And, most importantly, how do you use the power of motivation to get things done?
First, ask yourself some questions, like: what are you trying to accomplish? Is your homework due tomorrow? Do you have to read a chapter of a book? Either way, come up with a goal you know you can do. Don’t tell yourself to do something you know you can’t or won’t do. Access your energy levels and make a plan. If it’s Monday and you have a lab due tomorrow and a paper due Wednesday, but you’re tired from basketball practice, just do the homework.
Also, it can be hard to be motivated if you don’t feel good. Try to eat a snack you like or drink your favorite drink while working. Good food activates the reward system in your brain which causes a rise in serotonin and motivation.
Next, get comfortable. Being dressed in dirty, smelly gym clothes or tight jeans causes stress. Get in comfy clothes that you can stretch in.
Also, it might help to wash your face and brush your hair or teeth. Feeling clean also allows you to devote more mental energy to the task at hand. If you’re too tired to think, sleep. Take a nap or go to bed early, just remember to wake up and do your homework in the morning.
After you’ve done all of that, sit down with intention. Don’t try to do homework in bed because it makes everything drag on and it makes you tired. Find somewhere where you can sit upright so that blood can flow to your brain. Try to limit distractions but give yourself phone breaks at certain time intervals. This will encourage you to complete your goal without getting stuck in a rut.
If you’re struggling, try phoning a friend. I’m not encouraging you to copy someone else’s work, but hearing a friend explain material to you or having someone to work with can make the process more enjoyable and less arduous. If you’re not getting a concept, email your teacher, they’re usually happy to help.
Finally, if all else fails, just do it. Get up out of bed and get it done. Starting as soon as possible allows you to take the mental load off and reduce your stress. Your future self will thank you.
Motivation can be a struggle sometimes but setting realistic goals, getting comfy, sitting with intention, taking breaks, and asking for help are all science-backed ways to improve your motivation and get it done.
