How to stay focused during the school year

Everyone has trouble focusing sometimes. There’s no doubt college can be demanding, especially if you’re taking full-time classes, but it doesn’t have to be overwhelming.

From going to bed at the same time every night to turning off your smartphone when you study, Vancouver Career College has compiled 10 tips to help you stay focused during the school year.

1. Get at least eight hours of sleep each night

Your mind needs a break, too. Not getting enough shuteye is a sure way to make you feel unmotivated and affect your productivity. Set a bedtime routine and go to bed at the same time each night, preferably for eight hours or more.

2. Maintain a healthy diet

Boost your brainpower and your energy by snacking berries, nuts, and dark chocolate throughout the day. A simple meal in the morning -- even a slice of toast and peanut butter -- will also go a long way to fuel your motivation and ability to focus at school. Don’t forget to stay hydrated.

3. Prioritize your assignments

You can only effectively focus on one thing at a time. To stay focused during the school year at Vancouver Career College, it’s important to prioritize your assignments. Begin with looking at what’s due first and then start chipping away. 

4. Find your why

What is your reason for attending Vancouver Career College? Whether it’s to pursue your dream job in Surrey or to open a business in Burnaby, it’s important to focus on why you decided to go to school. Oftentimes, visualizing your future is a great way to stay focused.

5. Limit your social media consumption

It may seem harmless to have a quick scroll through your social media networks but it’s all too easy to go down the rabbit hole and lose track of time. If you’re the type to check Facebook or Instagram every 10 minutes, then it might be a good idea to turn off your smartphone, at least when you’re trying to study.

6. Know your limits

All-nighters and studying without breaks are not wise. You’ll feel burned out, tired, and extremely unfocused. Try to study in intervals. If you plan to study for three hours, set the timer for 30 to 45 minutes and then take a 15-minute break to snack and stretch your legs. When you sit back down again to study, you’ll feel refreshed and more alert.

7. Get into a routine

A great way to stay focused is to figure out how and when you work best, and where you concentrate the most effectively. When you find the time of day that you are naturally full of energy, you’ll have a better chance of staying focused on schoolwork.

8. Reward yourself

There’s nothing like a little reward to keep you motivated. Set yourself an academic goal and when you achieve it be sure to give yourself a reward. This can be anything from a night out with friends or a night in with ice cream and Netflix.

9. Get some exercise

Go for a walk, do yoga, or try aerobics for 30 minutes before your study. Exercise can provide you with a great boost of energy and improve your ability to stay focused throughout the school year.

10. Keep a clear study space

As the old adage goes: a cluttered desk is a cluttered mind. Make sure your study space is clean and organized. Keep only what you need to do your coursework on that particular subject near you to prevent unnecessary distractions.

To learn more about Vancouver Career College programs and courses either in Burnaby or Surrey, be sure to fill out the Request More Info form today.