By Camille Pruvost
“Mind alone possesses all faculties, perception, and comprehension.”
– Science & Health with Key to the Scriptures, by Mary Baker Eddy 488:23 –
It’s that time of the year again. Papers and projects have begun piling up, the sun is setting at 5:00pm, the weather has turned chilly, and you’re soooooooo done with school. But before you start dreaming of turkey and Christmas trees, remember those papers aren’t going to write themselves! If you’re having a difficult time motivating yourself to start working, here are a few tips to kick yourself into gear:
#1 Stop dwelling on it!
Thinking about how much work you have left to do isn’t going to make it magically disappear. I know, college life is tough. But seriously, stop thinking about it. Having a lot of obstacles isn’t a problem if you know how to react to obstacles. It is what you do that makes you successful or not.
#2 Clean your room
Dead serious. Put on some funky music with a beat, throw in a load of laundry, organize your desk, sweep the floor, and make your bed. While cleaning your room isn’t as intimidating as a paper (I hope), it gets you up and moving forward. Plus, an organized room is usually more conducive to productivity.
#3 Grab a bite to eat
When was the last time you ate? Was it nutritious? Set yourself up for success and feed yourself! At least make it a snack of yogurt, nuts, or fruit.
#4 Take a gratitude walk
Nothing like a brisk walk in chilly air to wake you up and get the blood pumping. While you’re strolling along, make a list of all the things/people you’re grateful for and why. Spend some time feeling this sense of gratitude. Think about how amazing you’re going to feel when you finally finish that paper. Happiness in the present is requisite for success in the future.
#5 Take a shower
Sometimes, that’s all you need.
#6 Block all social media
Drastic times call for drastic measures. Take the plunge, and block off all social media and websites that drain your time (ahem, Netflix).
#7 You’ve got this!
Finally, realize that you can do this. Motivation will never come from outside of you. Ultimately, you’ve got to make a choice. The good news is that you are fully capable of finishing the semester strong and with a smile on your face.
Camille Pruvost is a Christian Science nurse in her junior year majoring in music and minoring in religion. Her music ministry serves to inspire faith and to facilitate ecumenical and interfaith dialogue. This winter she will be traveling to Vienna, Prague, and Paris on the Music abroad to further her studies.