As the end of the semester quickly approaches and final exams start getting closer, many of us may find it difficult to continue with the same level of enthusiasm we showed during the beginning of the semester. This feeling is totally normal! The stress of having more deadlines and projects to complete may get to us, but it’s important to remember to take a deep breath and remain positive and optimistic about the weeks we have ahead. The good thing is, there are so many ways to stay motivated and keep stress low! As engineers, we are becoming comfortable with constantly being kept on our toes and are learning how to make the most of the time we have in order to be efficient and productive. At the same time, we have to learn how to take a step back and focus on ourselves when necessary! Here are some ways to remain motivated throughout the semester!Athulya Nair (ABE '24) in Krach Leadership Center
Implement something new into your routine.
Sometimes we get so used to our daily routine that we forget to go out of our usual schedule and try something new. This can be anything from waking up early to go get coffee at Starbucks to going and studying at a different location on campus. There’s also various events, seminars, and opportunities on Purdue’s campus you can sign up for and get involved with. Having experience with different involvements and allowing yourself to try something out of your ordinary routine can push you to grow and stay attentive during the semester. Making sure to switch up your routine every once in a while will allow you to remain engaged and motivated throughout the week.
Reward yourself for your hard-work.
Sometimes it’s easy to just keep going through each week completing all of our assigned tasks and then focus on next week’s assignments during the weekend to get ahead. Although this may seem productive, it is a quick way to face burnout early within the semester and lose motivation for upcoming deadlines. By ensuring you take a break every once in a while and treat yourself when needed, you can help yourself remain positive and give your brain a well-needed refresh. Some great ways to reward yourself are getting a sweet treat with friends during the middle of the week, watching a movie, or going to a Purdue sporting event. With basketball season coming up, there’s plenty of opportunities to revive your Boilermaker spirit after a long week!
Revisit your annual and life-long goals.
Rather than focusing on what you have to do, focus on what you CAN do. Remind yourself why you are here and what you want to accomplish. You came to college for a reason, and every task you accomplish makes you one step closer to your end-goal. If looking at the big picture seems too intimidating, look at your annual goals and focus on the present. Taking bigger goals and breaking them down into more manageable and less threatening objectives can help you feel more in control of your career path and lifestyles. Something as small as making sure to write down your daily requirements in your planner on an online calendar can make you feel more accountable and organized for the days and weeks ahead.
Know when to get help when needed.
Sometimes college can feel overwhelming, and it is always okay to ask for help if you are feeling overloaded. You can always talk to your professors or academic counselor if classes are not aligning with your goals and interests. Purdue also has several resources and hotlines available to receive help when needed. Purdue’s Counseling and Psychological Services (CAPS) is available if you are struggling with mental and emotional health matters. Purdue also has a mindfulness room to practice meditation, as well as a massage and light therapy room that is available to all students at the Cordova Recreational Sports Center (COREC).
Although college may sometimes be a stressful experience, it is important to remember to be proud of all your accomplishments so far and recognize how much you have grown as an individual. You have so much to look forward to, and the possibilities with a Purdue Engineering degree are endless. Believe in your capabilities and strive to be the best person you can be. Stay motivated and Boiler Up!
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