Date Published: July 8th, 2020
Maybe it’s because it’s summer, or you’re between actual classes. Maybe you’re just having one of those days. Sometimes, finding the motivation to study for your nursing degree feels like a big ask. Nobody feels motivated all the time, but not feeling super pumped doesn’t matter when you still have studying to get done. If you’re having one of those days where you just can’t seem to turn your focus knob to the “on” position, check out these tips.
- Set a schedule: Give yourself a concrete time every day that is set aside specifically for studying. That way, you’ll know that for that time, studying is the only thing that can or must happen. Studying at the same time every day can help make it a habit, making it easier to do over long periods of time.
- Make a to-do list: Create a short list of the things you absolutely MUST get done. The shorter and easier the first few tasks are, the better: being able to cross a task or two off the list quickly can help you feel like you’ve accomplished something, which can help you find the motivation to keep going.
- Write down how you feel when you’re done: When you’ve gotten through a textbook chapter or a pile of notes for an upcoming test, write down how great you feel for having finished your work for the day. Those notes to yourself about your daily triumphs can help you get started the next time your motivation is flagging.
Check out How to Create a Home Study Space to help you find motivation at home
- Get moving: Get outside and enjoy some sunshine, dance to your favorite jam, or practice some yoga poses – give yourself a chance to move your body. Getting out of your head for a few minutes can help you focus when you settle back down to study.
- Give yourself a break: Sometimes you really do need that day off to rest and refuel yourself – be kind to yourself and take a break when you need it. If you’re a person who’s prone to feel guilty when you’re not studying, focus on your weekly schedule. Think through what you need to get done throughout the week, and then create a quick plan to get it done while giving yourself the break you need. That way, you’ll be able to relax guilt-free during your time away from studying.
- Remind yourself of your goals: There is a reason – probably many reasons – why you’re willing to study so hard to become a nurse. Think about everything you’ve already accomplished toward that goal, and then think about what made you want to become a nurse in the first place. Hold onto those dreams on the days when the last thing you want to do is crack open a book or review your notes.
It’s absolutely normal to have days where you just can’t quite get excited about studying. Use these tips and tricks to help you push through it – your motivation won’t be gone for long!
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