What's Your Study Mood?

For me, I have to be in the right mood to study, even though I can force myself into it more often than not. However, over my years of attending school, I've learned how to study based on how I'm feeling at the time.

Here are some ways you might be feeling and how to best study to deal with them, as I have learned. Quick disclaimer--although these work for me, you may need to tweak them a little bit to make them perfect for you.

1. "I'm so motivated"

Somehow, I managed to wake up right after my alarm went off, so I actually get to take my time with my morning routine. Following yoga, a shower, and breakfast, I'm ready to sit down and get some work done.

Usually when I'm feeling this motivated, I try to ride out that wave as long as I can. However, it's always important to make sure I'm not rushing through anything just so I can get as much done as possible while I'm being productive.

2. "My life is a hot mess"

Let's face it: we've all been here. Sometimes, it seems like my to do list is never-ending and all of a sudden there are papers surrounding me on the floor with music blaring from my laptop.

At this point for me, I have to prioritize and work on the most important things first. It's also a good idea to try and work on harder things first so you're not dreading them the entire time you're studying.

3. "I can't focus in the house anymore"

Time to hit up my favorite type of place to study: a coffee shop! There's such a focused vibe within every cafe I've spent time in, and it's hard to not feel motivated when surrounded by like-minded people, the smell of coffee, and the sound of clacking keyboards.

One of my biggest tips for this type of studying is making sure that you bring every single thing you need. I can't even begin to describe the disappointment of realizing I forgot a textbook or a charger I really needed.

4. "No distractions today"

Sometimes, you know you just need to sit down and get sh*t done. I like to put my phone on "do not disturb," put on some instrumental music or white noise, and sit myself down until I get all my work done.

5. "The last thing I want to do today is study"

Sometimes, getting myself to study is a chore in itself. I can find myself sitting on the couch scrolling through the same three apps and telling myself I'll get up in just "five more minutes."

The best way for me to combat this feeling is to study the topics that I find most interesting, even if it's for a general class. After all, there's always something within any subject that can catch my attention.

6. "It's going to be a long night"

Oh, it's already midnight and I'm nowhere near done with my to do list? Time to break out the espresso and Red Bull!

FYI, sleep is still important--if you've gotten done with everything that's your top priority, get to bed. Don't force yourself to stay up if you don't need to.

xoxo,

Rachel