Reintegrating into Studies After a Break: A Comprehensive Guide
Understanding the Journey Post Break
I don’t know if it was due to procrastination or not but if it was, try to forgive yourself because the guilt inside you won’t let you win.
Psychology says: don’t just plan, but implement it. It’s not just about our routine plans, but also about acting on those plans even when it feels difficult. Planning is one thing, but implementing it is the real challenge.
Tips for Reintegration
1. Plan Your Day
Start by specifying each and every task in your schedule. For example, if you plan to do yoga in the garden for 30 minutes at 7:30 AM, make sure it’s part of your daily routine. Small, achievable tasks can set the tone for a productive day.
2. Pace Yourself
Don’t immediately jump into long study sessions. Starting with smaller, manageable blocks of time is key. If you try to study 14 or 17 hours straight, you might fail this early on. Instead, focus on consistency, gradual progress, and building your study habits over time.
3. Integrate Hobbies
Add some enjoyable activities to your routine. Painting, gardening, or reading a good book can help break the monotony and make you feel less burdened. Incorporate these activities during your free time to destress and maintain a balance.
4. Set Break Hobbies
List down your hobbies and plan to engage in them during your breaks. This way, you’re less likely to feel overwhelmed, and you might even find that studying becomes more manageable.
5. Restrict Distractions
Take steps to minimize distractions. For instance, restrict the use of mobile phones by putting them on flight mode or placing them out of reach. Joining a library can also help keep you away from distractions like social media and TV.
The Importance of a Strong Mindset
It’s crucial to have a strong mindset when you reintegrate into studies. Identify the underlying reasons for why you need to study. Maybe it’s for your future, for personal growth, or for future opportunities. Keeping these reasons in mind can help you stay motivated.
Clean Up Your Study Space
A clean, organized study environment is essential. A cluttered space can be overwhelming and make it harder to concentrate. Make sure your study area is neat and inviting.
Eliminate Distractions
Your smartphone might be the biggest distraction. Put it in flight mode or hand it over to someone else for a while. The key is to be in the right mindset and focused on your goals.
Just Start Studying
Even if you’re not feeling motivated, just start. Sometimes the act of sitting down and opening a book is enough to get you in the right state of mind. If you’re not in the mood to study, just stare at the wall. At least try to learn one new fact. You’ll gradually build up your study time.
Bonus Tip: Be Kind to Yourself
If you find yourself getting distracted again, be kind to yourself. It’s normal to have off days. Prioritize the activities that help you stand out from the crowd. Focus on what matters most to you and make it a priority.
Conclusion
Reintegrating into studies after a break can be challenging, but it’s also an opportunity for growth and transformation. By following these tips and maintaining a strong mindset, you can overcome procrastination and regain your study momentum.