Motivational Techniques to Employ when Concentration is Shot
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In order to succeed in anything you do, half the battle is staying motivated. This is especially important in your studies at school. However, sometimes life gets in the way and can mess with that motivation. Other times, it is the routine, the same-old, same-old, that can get you down. So how do you stay motivated? Being in the right frame of mind is always helpful, but that alone will not keep you motivated.
It is especially important to note that what motivates one person will not necessarily work for another. Everyone has their own goals and preferences. Therefore, when considering some of the motivational tips below, keep in mind that they are not “one size fits all.” Pick and choose several that you can employ when your concentration in your studies (or anything you do, for that matter) is shot.
Tip #1 – Create a to-do list. When you write a list of things down that need to be accomplished, it feels really great to be able to cross one thing off the list once it is completed. This is a real, tangible way of keeping yourself motivated. Seeing that list shrink feels good and gives you a sense of accomplishment.
Tip #2 – Find your calendar and dust it off. In school, your professors and teachers will likely give you a timeline when tests occur as well as special projects. Use your calendar and write your goals down on it. If a term paper is due at the end of a semester, you can spread out the work and avoid the pressures of last minute writing. Write in a library date for research time and then schedule a time to compose an outline of your term paper. By committing each stage of the project to your calendar, you have sort of created a personal contract with yourself.
Tip #3 – Treats for a job well-done are great motivation. If just the thought of studying brings tears to your eyes, think of a simple reward to give yourself. Set a goal of studying for one hour and then take a break for an ice cream cone or whatever simple pleasure you desire. Those rewards really help towards motivating you to do something you normally would not want to do.
Tip #4 – Change your schedule around. If you have a specific routine that you do not deviate from, then you are stuck in a rut! Change your schedule; flip-flop errands or study sessions. Eat your meals at a different time. Take a different route to school or work. Make a few changes so your schedule seems more fresh and new.
Tip #5 – Get some rest! When you are tired, you are less effective in your daily tasks. No one has to say that sleep is essential; everyone knows that! However, if your “get up and go” has got up and went before your day is finished, schedule a power nap. Many studies show that even ten to twenty minute quickie naps can energize you and help you concentrate better for the rest of the day. That “fresh” feeling keeps your motivation levels from dropping.
Tip #6 – Enforce break times. If you find yourself reading the same passage over and over again when you are studying, it is time to take a break. Getting frustrated does not help matters and actually, only makes things worse. Try for a change in scenery by taking a walk outside or visiting with a friend. Sometimes, just giving your brain a rest will allow you to recharge your batteries and maintain that motivation to succeed.
Tip #7 – Set goals for yourself. When you are faced with a project or something unpleasant, try thinking of something that you want to work toward, something to look forward to once that project is over. It could something as simple as a college student thinking of going home for Thanksgiving break. Be sure to make both long-term goals and short term goals. By achieving those short-term goals, it will keep you motivated for those long term ones. In turn, that keeps your concentration up and work is less likely to suffer.
Just remember that every person is different. There are always going to be a certain set of dynamics that are beyond your control. Your job, in order to keep your concentration up, is to find ways to keep yourself motivated. Find a way past those “roadblocks” and chart a new path.
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