Study Smart
Think of university as a nine-to-five job. But dedicating full days to sitting at a desk is not only unattainable but will reduce your focus levels. Design a personalised routine that includes regular breaks and considers your peak productivity hours. Try experimenting with different locations to see what works best for you. Study at your home one day, the campus library the next, and then try a café or the Jubilee Library another day. It is all about finding the best ways to be time efficient; work smarter not harder!
Additionally, be cautious about studying with your friends. Although company can increase motivation and productivity, it can also make you side-track—I know I have had study sessions turn into day-long gossip and deep meaningful conversation sessions. Adjust your study approach based on what helps you stay on track.
Maintain Balance
- Time for Self-Care: Giving your eyes a rest from screens is crucial for improving your mindset. Prioritise self-care by setting aside time each day for relaxation. It could be a walk along the beach, a lunch or coffee date, having a pamper night or a kick about at the park with your friends. Even taking a ten-minute break to soak up some vitamin D—when the sun decides to come out. Do not beat yourself up for taking time off— listen to your head and your body—it will have a bigger impact than you think, on your work, mentality and well-being.
- Exercise: Moving daily will help your mind reset and give you an extra energy boost. This does not have to be intense daily workouts; it could be a stretching session or a brisk walk.
- Meal prepping: Many of us are culprits of falling into the trap of buying quick or expensive meals that have no nutritional value during this period. Try meal prepping some of your favourite meals or grab-and-go breakfasts to save your time and energy. If you like having a variety of meals, batch cook a Bolognese or a dhal to freeze and eat throughout the assessment period. Ensure that your meals contain brain foods that help your brain function healthily. Some key ones are wholegrains, oily fish, eggs, berries, broccoli and tomatoes.
Prioritise Sleep
- Better Sleep = Better Grades: It is not a secret that a lack of sleep can have a big impact on your grades. But academic anxiety during the assessment period is something most of us are kept up with at night. I do not know about you, but I usually fall asleep thinking about literature reviews and data analysis. Sleep is the secret to better grades.
- Bedtime Routine: In a perfect world avoiding screens before sleep would be easy, but that’s easier said than done. If you unwind by watching TV, switch your devices to night mode to reduce exposure to blue light. Reducing the amount of blue light on your screens at all times of the day would be most beneficial, trust me, your eyes will thank you. If you can, implement no screens before bed, read a book or listen to music that calms you instead. To make your bedtime routine even more relaxing, get some lavender spray for your room to help you sleep better and destress.
- Napping: Myth buster time! Napping can be beneficial for your memory and recall, especially during this period. However, there is a fine line between over-napping and napping just right. Nap for no longer than 30 minutes to avoid your sleep cycle being disrupted.
Reward Yourself
- Small Incentives: Treat yourself, weekly or even daily! It does not have to be big. Whether it is a pint, a face mask or a sweet treat to keep yourself going, buy it for yourself, you deserve it. Acknowledge your progress and hard work.
- Social Outings in Moderation: The assessment period does not mean the rest of your life has to be put on pause. Do not isolate yourself, social connections are crucial for mental well-being. Just be mindful of not overindulging in activities or drinking that may disrupt your productivity or sleep patterns. Swap a club night for a quiz night or a few drinks at Falmer bar before heading home from university. Save it for when you are celebrating at the end of the year.
- End-of-Year Rewards: Book post-assessment rewards! Whether it’s a special treat, a weekend away or concert tickets, having something to look forward to will provide an extra incentive to stay focused and motivated. Plus, it will be well-deserved respite.
GOOD LUCK!