Coming off of Christmas break, we are getting back into our day-to-day schedule. Some people have set New Year’s resolutions and goals for 2020. Something that probably needs more attention this year is the quality of focus on our school life. Students tend to lose focus on schoolwork, especially during this time of year. Here are a few habits to incorporate to hopefully make life a little more manageable.

Sleep is a vital part of our health, focus, and attention span. Teens need 8-10 hours of sleep each night. Sleeping allows the body to repair and recharge for the next day. Getting into a regular sleep routine can greatly improve your quality of sleep. Sometimes, we think we can compensate for the lack of sleep with things like energy drinks or coffee. In reality, this caffeine is only a band-aid to our absence of energy. It actually messes up our sleep schedule more. Another good habit to get into is turning all electronics off about an hour before sleeping. The blue light from electronics such as cell phones decreases the amount of melatonin produced, making it that much harder to fall asleep. I know it can be hard to have enough self-control to actually follow through with this one, but it will make a huge difference.

Another vital part of focus is time management. Time management is key when it comes to schoolwork. Scheduling homework around practices and other activities can become stressful very quickly. One solution is to have a planner and use it regularly. Writing down lists and events are helpful reminders. When tasks are accomplished, it leads to feeling productive and motivated. Utilize the calendar app on cell phones. Although my friends roast me for using it, I don’t know how I would keep everything in order without it.

Another motivational tip is to set goals and STICK TO THEM! Work out how to achieve those goals and hold yourself accountable to follow through with them. Surround yourself with people who want the best for you and want to see you succeed. It is important that there are encouraging friends pushing you to be the best you can be.

Focus in the classroom environment can sometimes be the most challenging part of the school day. There are so many distractions, such as noises and daydreaming. To stay focused, take colorful notes. As cheesy as it sounds, Pinterest has some life changing note tips. Writing all of the material down reiterates the topics and can be used as another resource to study. Notes, however, will be useless without some structure and organization. Everyone learns different, so cater to your personal needs. A well-known study tip is to teach the subject to someone else. This ensures that you are confident with the information and have a strong foundation of knowledge. In addition to pretty notes, class participation can help greatly with retaining information. It lets the teacher know that you are involved and tuned-in. It makes the class easier to understand and ask questions if needed.

Lastly, water is a necessity when it comes to health. Dehydration can lead to headaches and stomach aches. When you’re not feeling your best, focus is at the bottom of your priority list. Hydrating throughout the day can help with lack of energy and boosts skin health. Some boujee water bottles even track your water in-take which is way more fun than a regular bottle. Basically, the bottom line is to drink more water. It’s good for you, and you will not regret it.
Enforcing these few habits into our daily lives will make a difference. Get motivated for 2020!!