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Having trouble being productive? Don’t worry, everyone does sometimes!
Here are some tips to get back on your game.
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Get out of your bedroom! The environment for rest comes with a relaxed mindset, while your environment for work should promote focus.
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Clean up your workspace. Messy desk, distracted mind.
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Make a list of what you have to do. Getting your tasks out of your mind and onto a piece of paper helps you focus on one thing at a time.
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Don’t be afraid to give yourself breaks. Set a timer on your phone for 30-45 minutes and put it across the room; work until the timer goes off, then let yourself relax and go on your phone for a few minutes before starting the process again.
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Reach out to a parent or friend for help. Even if they can’t help you figure out the quadratic equation, they may be able to motivate you to keep on trying!
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Set smaller goals. Rather than trying to finish your essay, focus on finishing the introductory paragraph.
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Frustrated with one question? Try skipping to the last question and working backwards. Oftentimes other questions in the assignment will contain hints on how to complete the others.
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Keep a distraction list! If you have trouble focusing on the task at hand, keep a scrap piece of paper nearby while you’re working. If a distracting thought pops into your head, write it down and keep on working.
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Get rid of all those tabs on your computer-- they remind you of all the things you could be doing instead of the task at hand. If you can’t stand to get rid of them, open a new window.
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Grab a snack before you work and bring a water bottle to your workspace. Working hungry is hard, and drinking water is always good for a healthy mind!