#averageibstudies

Here are a few easy tips to help you take care of yourself even when you are bursting at the seams with responsibilites. 

Take a walk or go on a run

Make yourself a nice meal...it is time to treat yourself

Drink a cup of hot coffee or tea while listening to your favorite song

Make a list of everything you are grateful for that week

Text your friend and make plans to see each other or get lunch

Take a hot bath and use your favorite soaps and sugar scrubs

Put on your most comfortable clothes 

Watch an episode of your favorite TV show 

Clean up five items in your room (maybe they are all laying on your floor)

Try meditation or yoga

Unplug for 30 minutes, no phone, computer or TV (yes, that does mean no Tumblr for 30 minutes)

Take a power nap - aim for around 20 to 30 minutes so you can wake up feeling energized again

Spend time with your family or pets for a little while, remind yourself that the small moments are just as important as the large ones

Life is really hard and can be a true pain somedays...trust me I know. It is important to step back and remember that taking care of yourself always always ALWAYS comes first. Life is tough, but you are tougher. 

One of the biggest reasons my studying productivity has increased this year is because I have created a study space within my room that I am excited to work in every day. I hope some of these tips help you guys and make you a little more motivated to get crack-a-lackin’ on those books!

1. Look for an area that has natural light 

The use of natural light, instead of artificial light can help dramatically. It allows the body to wake up and stay more alert. It can also bring REAL warmth and vitality to the room. We ain’t no fake bitches up in here!

2. Make it comfortable!

One of the things that gets me super excited to start studying is how comfy my space is. I personally can NOT sit in a chair for hours on end and be happy. I love having blankets and pillows in the corner of my room ready for me to study the night away! Make your space unique to you and your studying needs. Remember to make it comfy....but not too comfy.

3. Decorate to motivate!

The more aesthetic the better! Working in an environment that is visually attracting will make you more motivated to go work in that area. Make sure to decorate the area with pictures, lights, tapestries, paintings, etc! Whatever makes the space attractive to you, add it!

4. Have some candy or snacks

Adding a jar of candy or snacks might seem super simple, but it totally works! The candy can be used to keep you motivated and celebrate when you have been working hard! Adding your favorite snack or candy is a good pick-me-up when that chemistry homework is really getting the best of you!

5. Make sure outlets are nearby 

It can make studying hard with a computer if it is dead and your new and improved study space is not near any outlets. Make sure you have easy access to outlets before you start decorating your new space. Additionally, adding an extension cord is an option when considering what will make charging your super duper cool computer easier while working in your new space!

Learning how to deal with your stress and anxiety is super important, especially since it is something everyone has to deal with as a human. Learning how to handle it sooner rather than later will save you from many mental breakdowns down the road. (trust me) 

1. Exercise regularly

I know that when I mention the word exercise some of you immediately roll your eyes, but adding some workouts to your weekly routine can help you maintain your stress levels. Find a workout that fits your comfort level and add it into you week. It will allow you let out pent up stress caused by your day.

2. Make a list of your daily tasks

Find time at the beginning of your day to make a list of what you want to accomplish during the day. Making a list will add some organization to your schedule and can help you stay on top of your tasks. Also crossing off tasks is super satisfying and will help keep you motivated to complete the rest of your tasks.

3. Take 30 minutes to do what YOU want

It is super easy to get caught up just going through your day and doing what is asked of you. In order to keep yourself a happy little flower take 30 minutes out of your day to do something that makes you happy. Maybe that’s going on a walk, listening to your favorite playlist, playing with your pet, whatever it is. Do something for yourself. If you just keep pushing and completing what is asked of you, you can reach a burnout and a burnout will affect you way longer than 30 minutes of fun will. Be a happy soul.

4. Talk to someone

I know some people hate talking about their feelings and trust me I understand 100%. I am definitely not saying that you need to go find a friend and tell them every little feeling you have and sentiment you are carrying. But I do recommend just telling someone out loud how you feel. Even if it’s as small as saying “Im stressed from all my homework.” It will allow you to admit it to yourself and someone else how you are feeling. This could also allow that person to support you through your rough patch. Everyone needs a little encouragement sometimes. 

5.  Accept what you can control (and can not)

It is super easy for us to get caught up in this whirlwind of life, but you have to remember that you can only control certain things. Sadly, we can not control everything and you shouldn't stress yourself out about things that are out of your hands. I am totally guilty of stressing about things that I have no control over and all it does is add extra on top of what you already have. Don’t do that to yourself. Stress less and smile more. :)