It's about that time again...

Photo courtesy of MCT Campus.

It’s almost finals week, already? This year seems to have gone by faster than I expected. I’m finding it harder to stay focused on my work because I’m beginning to get that summer fever. Whenever I study, I find myself thinking of summer and before I know it I find myself on Pinterest looking at the new Victoria Secrets bathing suits. Just pinning away! I’m sure I’m not the only one feeling this way. Facebook, Twitter, and Pinterest can be put on hold while studying. Here are tips on how to stay focused on studying!

First, in order to eliminate your distractions, you must find out what exactly they are. If you’re that type of person who gets distracted my social networking, close all sites and step away from all unnecessary devices. Yes, that means your iPhone. Tell people your studying and that you will text them later. You will find yourself being more productive when you don’t have to memorize definitions and keep up with the latest gossip at the same time.

Second, take breaks! You work best when you can fuel your body and your mind as well. It’s hard on your eyes to stare at a book or computer screen for long periods of time. Most people tell themselves that they can’t afford breaks because they have to keep studying. If you’re this person at least get up for a few minutes and walk around, do some light stretching, or even close your eyes to do some eye stretches to prevent strain.

Eat! You’re spending all this time filling your brain with mass amounts of information that you sometimes forget to fill your stomach! Eat healthy snacks like raw veggies, fruits, nuts, or crackers. Also, always keep a glass of water at hand. Never forget the importance of staying hydrated while studying.

Reward yourself. Before you study set goals for yourself. An example would be: if you work for a certain amount of time, your reward could be a fifteen-minute Facebook break. Hopefully you’ll be less likely to stop at you’re set time, knowing there’s still work to be done.

Are these tips not for you? Everyone works differently. Read this Seventeen article for more on staying focused.