By: Lily Ha, Contributing Writer
There are several steps that can be taken to create healthy habits for waking up to a good and productive morning, as mornings can set the tone for the day for a student. According to Productivityist, being productive can boost self confidence because “when your confidence levels rise, your productivity levels increase. You will be less likely to quit and, in many cases, you will be able to accomplish more than you thought you could.”
Set an alarm: No one likes waking up early, but making sure to have the time to check assignments, eat a hearty breakfast, and make a to-do list for the day, are all things that are able to be accomplished if you wake up 30 minutes, or even 15 minutes ahead of your regular schedule. The benefits of waking up consistently at a specific time is that we can reinforce the circadian rhythm and be prompted to go to sleep at the same time every night. Therefore, our bodily functions and cycles operate efficiently, keeping our system strong and energized.
Set up an agenda or to-do list for the day: This is something that’s completely changed my life. You can check off the assignments when they are finished, and add more based on the work needed to be done. Checking off the box or crossing it out can make you feel productive and seem that you have at least done something worthwhile during that day. Prioritizing organization promotes a healthy routine, and as a result, routines are important for physical health.
Stay hydrated: I know for a fact that this may not be the typical productivity suggestion that is expected, but drinking water can help you feel refreshed and ready to take on whatever is thrown at you that day.
Pomodoro Method: One app that is helpful for productivity and is easily usable is the Pomodoro Method. This is where you work for twenty five minutes and rest for five minutes and repeat four times. This can prevent both distractions and burnout.
Start with Your Hardest Tasks: You have the to-do list for the day, but the hardest question is where to start. Try to tackle the least pleasant task first, then move on to other tasks through a sort of reward system
Understand and Set Priorities: Additionally, understand the priorities for the day and set boundaries for yourself. That way, having a clear idea of what to accomplish for the day can help.
Eat Snacks and Take Breaks: Also, eating a healthy snack while working on homework and studying for tests can set the mind in a simple direction. Do not forget to take needed breaks and not rush too much, as it will only bring yourself down. Your mental health and happiness should be your number one priority.
Relax: To add to this, mental health during online school is extremely important. Make sure to frequently relax and do what you love, for this is more important than striving in academics.
Take a Walk and Breathe: If burnt out from studying, try to take a ten to fifteen minute walk outside and enjoy the fresh air. Make sure to breathe! Taking the time to breathe in and out a few times can give the confidence to start fresh. This can also give the motivation to start the tasks again. (I speak from experience as a high school student :))
We all have different styles of productivity and working. What works for me may or may not work for you. It is important to find how you work best in the environment that surrounds the area, and these are all suggestions that have helped me overcome procrastination, burn out, and other difficulties the typical high school student might face. Therefore, make sure to prioritize your mental health and wellbeing, before stressing about other things, such as academics.
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This is an extremely helpful article!! Thank you sm for the tips/advice!
so informative
So insightful!
This is super helpful!
Very helpful!