Plan social activities around your library trips.
Committing to going to the library can be a real struggle, especially with the cold weather and shorter days. Rather than rewarding yourself after getting that checklist done, why not start off your day with a morning coffee or brunch with your friends, and then head to the library after? Or, after your lectures, grab some lunch and then tackle that to-do list. Being relaxed and energised is a great way to be more productive. And you can always go for a pint afterwards.
It might sound silly, but keep hydrated.
The biggest cause for a lack of productivity is feeling sluggish and tired – and that’s probably because you haven’t drunk enough water. While it's true coffee and energy drinks just taste better, but they’ll only temporarily boost your energy. Being hydrated keeps you functioning, and you’ll probably feel less stressed too.
Make a realistic to-do list.
Are you really going to get it all done in one day? Probably not. A good to-do list shouldn’t have more than 6 things on it, and it doesn’t have to be just assignment-related. Tidying your room, washing dishes or doing your laundry are great things to put on your to-do list to make you feel more productive. Especially when doing that reading or writing that next paragraph doesn’t sound like something you want to do right now.
Go on a walk.
Sitting around all day is the biggest motivation killer ever. Going on a walk and getting some fresh air for 20 minutes can wake you up and is great for your mental health.
Snacks and more snacks.
Whoever said chocolate is the key to happiness is a genius. And if chocolate just doesn’t do it for you, get whatever snack just gives you that happy moment. Treat yourself.
A good to-do list shouldn't have more than 6 things on it, and it doesn't have to be assignment-related.
And lastly, just believe in yourself. You are more than capable. It might feel stressful, overwhelming, and you might need to cry. But you’ve got this.
