As the school year reaches its midpoint, midterms are finally over, and students have begun picking their classes, many students find themselves struggling to stay motivated. The mid-year slump hits everyone in different ways, and can make school feel particularly depleting. There are some techniques, though, that can help students push through and finish the year off strong.
Switching up Routines
By now, daily routines could feel repetitive, which can lead to the feelings of exhaustion. Minor modifications like studying in different locations, changing up morning routines, and trying different activities is a great way to give yourself a refreshing start.
Setting Achievable Goals
It can be scary to consider the upcoming months, but breaking goals into smaller, more manageable chunks can help keep motivation up. Instead of striving for long-term success it is beneficial to start with short-term objectives that can provide a sense of achievement to help beat the slump.
Staying Connected with Friends and Teachers
Many students suffer from this gloomy time, so reaching out to friends and family for support can be useful for a much needed boost. Whether it’s forming a study group or hanging out at the mall, social interaction can make school life feel less isolating. Also, asking teachers for help can be an important way to gain advice or extra help to keep their students on track.
Prioritizing Health and Wellbeing
Lack of sleep, poor nutrition, and excessive screen time can all contribute to the feeling of being drained and unmotivated. Adhering to a healthy sleep schedule, eating balanced meals, and taking breaks from screens is a great way to improve energy levels and focus. Even simply taking breaks and going outside for fresh air can have a positive impact on wellbeing.
Finding Something to Look Forward To
Whether it’s a school event, spring break, or even just a fun weekend get-together with friends, having something to look forward to can be the difference in keeping on track. Having personal rewards can also be used to manage the big gap between now and summer break.
The mid-year slump may feel discouraging, but it’s just a temporary interruption in the school year. By making some small changes, setting attainable goals, and prioritizing well-being, students can regain a spark and end strong. While it’s easy to feel stuck in the same old pattern, having means of staying engaged, or even by changing routines, can make a huge impact. Summer might still seem very far away, but persevering now will make it even more rewarding when it finally arrives.
