2 answers
Landen
Student
Swanzey, New Hampshire
1
Question
Asked
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How do I stay motivated and focused when things get overwhelming during my academic journey?
I'm currently a high school senior preparing for college. I've always been a good student, but often times get overwhelmed. Now that I'll be starting college in the fall, I know this won't get any easier and would appreciate some tips on how to stay motivated and focused.
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2 answers
Megan McCoy
Career Coach
185
Answers
Lakeland, Florida
Updated
Megan’s Answer
Hi Landen,
Senior year is definitely an overwhelming time! You are right that college will be harder to focus and stay motivated because you will not have the strict class schedule you had in high school. Here are some of my tips!
To stay focused:
1. Schedule your time wisely. In college, time management is the biggest struggle for most students. Be sure to keep a schedule (on your phone, in an agenda book- whatever works best for you) and give yourself a detailed schedule. Not just scheduling what time your classes are and marking off time to study. Schedule time to eat, sleep, and work out. Get yourself into a good routine.
2. Limit distractions. Social media, binge watching, and spending time with our friends are things we all want to do more of. But it can hurt us when it comes to getting good sleep, giving ourselves enough time to study or do projects, or getting things done that we are supposed to do. Put your phone away for a while. Go to a room without a TV. Schedule time with your friends when you can.
3. Seek help! I always tell my students if you want to be successful- no matter what you are trying to succeed in- you have to be comfortable asking for help. Ask your counselors or teachers for help. Ask your parents and friends for support. Talking to your professors, academic advisor, and career advisor, in college.
Motivated
1. Give yourself some goals. Goals for each day, week, month. Big or small. These goals can help you to stay motivated. Bigger goals share with family or friends to help keep you accountable or work on these goals together.
2. Have a good support system. Surround yourself with people who will help keep you motivated and stay on track.
3. Seek help! Yes, I am going to say it again. When you are struggling to stay motivated, make sure you get support!
I hope this helps!
Senior year is definitely an overwhelming time! You are right that college will be harder to focus and stay motivated because you will not have the strict class schedule you had in high school. Here are some of my tips!
To stay focused:
1. Schedule your time wisely. In college, time management is the biggest struggle for most students. Be sure to keep a schedule (on your phone, in an agenda book- whatever works best for you) and give yourself a detailed schedule. Not just scheduling what time your classes are and marking off time to study. Schedule time to eat, sleep, and work out. Get yourself into a good routine.
2. Limit distractions. Social media, binge watching, and spending time with our friends are things we all want to do more of. But it can hurt us when it comes to getting good sleep, giving ourselves enough time to study or do projects, or getting things done that we are supposed to do. Put your phone away for a while. Go to a room without a TV. Schedule time with your friends when you can.
3. Seek help! I always tell my students if you want to be successful- no matter what you are trying to succeed in- you have to be comfortable asking for help. Ask your counselors or teachers for help. Ask your parents and friends for support. Talking to your professors, academic advisor, and career advisor, in college.
Motivated
1. Give yourself some goals. Goals for each day, week, month. Big or small. These goals can help you to stay motivated. Bigger goals share with family or friends to help keep you accountable or work on these goals together.
2. Have a good support system. Surround yourself with people who will help keep you motivated and stay on track.
3. Seek help! Yes, I am going to say it again. When you are struggling to stay motivated, make sure you get support!
I hope this helps!
Howard Christiansen
Professor
62
Answers
New York, New York
Updated
Howard’s Answer
Dear Landen,
Finding out why you're not feeling motivated is a great first step. It might be stress, a packed schedule, or not having clear goals. Once you know what's holding you back, you can start to change your mindset and find that spark again.
As a college professor, I've seen many students face similar challenges. Here are some tips to help you succeed:
1. Take care of yourself: Eat well and get enough sleep. This helps you have a positive, energetic day.
2. Think positive: A good attitude can open new doors and help you come up with great ideas for school and work.
3. Set small goals: Make goals you can reach and take steps towards them.
4. Celebrate wins: When you hit a goal, enjoy the moment. It boosts your confidence and pushes you forward.
5. Be around positive people: Hang out with friends who are motivated and cheerful. Their energy can lift you up.
6. Talk to your boss, teacher, or mentor. Let them know you're working on your motivation. They might have helpful advice.
7. Choose happiness: Being happy naturally makes you more productive.
I hope these ideas help you find your motivation before you commence college. I'm cheering for you and wish you all the best in everything you do.
Prof. C
Finding out why you're not feeling motivated is a great first step. It might be stress, a packed schedule, or not having clear goals. Once you know what's holding you back, you can start to change your mindset and find that spark again.
As a college professor, I've seen many students face similar challenges. Here are some tips to help you succeed:
1. Take care of yourself: Eat well and get enough sleep. This helps you have a positive, energetic day.
2. Think positive: A good attitude can open new doors and help you come up with great ideas for school and work.
3. Set small goals: Make goals you can reach and take steps towards them.
4. Celebrate wins: When you hit a goal, enjoy the moment. It boosts your confidence and pushes you forward.
5. Be around positive people: Hang out with friends who are motivated and cheerful. Their energy can lift you up.
6. Talk to your boss, teacher, or mentor. Let them know you're working on your motivation. They might have helpful advice.
7. Choose happiness: Being happy naturally makes you more productive.
I hope these ideas help you find your motivation before you commence college. I'm cheering for you and wish you all the best in everything you do.
Prof. C