Part of the struggle of student life is the inevitable clash between productivity and relaxation.
I know I often find myself wondering whether I should finish an essay or binge-watch the entire series of
Freaks and Geeks (again).
As most would agree, a healthy balance between the two is the most effective way to manage your time. However, it can sometimes be difficult to snap out of holiday-mode and get back into the swing of things. I've asked my peers Diana, Whitney and Lexee for their advice on getting things done and still finding time to do what they enjoy.
Before I begin with my friends' advice, here's one big tip of my own:
give yourself things to look forward to.
I don't just mean allowing yourself an extra slice of cake for dessert (though by all means, go ahead); I mean
real rewards. By planning something exciting further down the track, you’ll push yourself to complete the to-do list
before that day arrives. It also brings about a sense of accomplishment; to know that you've worked so hard and are totally deserving of your prize.
A personal favourite of mine is going to gigs. Whether it be that of a chart-topping international pop star or a tiny, unknown band in a suburban garage, I find that the adrenaline live music generates is a sure-fire way to lift your spirits and let you (albeit temporarily) forget about the stress you may be experiencing. If gigs aren't your cup of tea, here are some alternatives:
- Go and watch a game of your favourite sport.
- Finally begin that new venture you've been itching to start, e.g. attending a workshop or art class, signing up for a course or getting a gym membership.
- Treat yourself to a meal at a restaurant you've never been to before.
- Buy yourself that thing you've been wanting for ages. You know the one.
- Invite someone along to the cinema to check out the latest offerings.
- Plan a weekend away in the near future.
- Call up your friends and arrange a weekend movie marathon.
Now onto my friends' suggestions.
Diana finds that
studying with an alarm set for 20 minute intervals is a helpful way to get work done, yet also have an abundance of breaks if necessary. She told me that by the time the 20 minutes is over, she's less likely to want a break, as she's already on a roll with the current task.
Whitney said that
going to the library is useful for her, mainly due to the fear factor;
if she gets off task and starts talking, somebody's bound to complain. The lack of distraction is also a benefit to library studying.
Lexee enjoys
working outside, or anywhere else she wouldn't normally work, as it is
a breath of fresh air (literally and figuratively) to the negativity and stress most of us have associated with our desks.
As for break activities, most of their suggestions were much of a muchness. Sleep, TV, Netflix, food and exercise were recurring themes. Well, I guess you can't beat the originals.
So there you have it; my brief guide to relaxation and efficiency as we enter yet another school year. Best of luck to all the students out there – may your grades rise and your procrastination fall.
Eloise Parks is one of Student Edge’s student contributors. Learn more about the contributors program.
really helpful article. -thanks