How To Be More Productive

Hello everyone!

For college students, midterm season is one of the most dreaded times of the year. A lull in productivity and motivation paired with an influx of work and stress can lead to one unhappy camper. We can all come across these ruts every once in a while, and it can often seem impossible to get back on track. I have come up with a few tips and tricks to combat this overwhelming feeling to boost your productivity and well-being.

Establish a Morning Routine

Starting your day with some small goals to accomplish every day can make you more alert and productive. While it can be impractical to get out of bed hours before you have to leave the house, it is possible to incorporate some healthy habits into your morning routine. If you find that meditating, cooking, or exercising makes you happy and ready to start your day, set your alarm thirty minutes earlier than you need it to be and take some time to wake up. Even the smallest of tasks  that you can complete early in the day can set you up for success (for me, it’s making my bed). I know it may seem tempting, but don’t hit snooze!

Keep Organized

Whether you journal, keep a planner, or have a home covered in post-its, do what you need to do to manage your tasks. You are much more likely to be successful and productive if you have an idea of what you need to do this week, this month, and this year. Schedule breaks and things that you are looking forward to each day!

Practice Healthy Work Habits

One of my friends introduced me to the Pomodoro technique when I was stressed about a big interview I had the following day. Essentially, the practice involves 25 minutes of focused, hard work, followed by a 3-5 minute break. After a few rounds of this cycle, take a 30 minute break to eat, exercise, or meditate. This technique has allowed me to be more productive when I have one specific task to complete, and there are even apps that do all of the timing for you! Find your own Pomodoro technique, and thrive while working.

Doing these things has increased my productivity, and decreased my stress. Hopefully using these strategies can do the same for you!

Cheers,

Gloria