Post-holiday blues? Three ways to re-find your motivation to study

Does returning to study have you feeling a bit like this? Read on for some strategies for beating the back-to-study blues.

Finding it hard to get back into the swing of study after a relaxing Christmas and New Year break? We feel your pain. Saying goodbye to sleep-ins, lazy days at the beach and uninterrupted family time can be tough!

Unfortunately returning to work and study is inevitable for most people (unless you’ve somehow managed to find the secret to being on holiday all the time – if that’s you, please share!). The good news is – we’re all in this together. And there’s plenty to be positive about, if only you have the right attitude.

Here’s three tried and tested tips to refocus on study and re-find your motivation to succeed.

1. Create a new study schedule

It’s amazing how quickly we fall out of study habits when we’re on holiday. One week you’re waking up at the same time every day and in a really great study routine, the next you’re sleeping in until noon.

A good way to get back into routine is to start fresh. Write a new study schedule (even if it’s exactly the same as your old one). It’s the process of writing it that’s important – it will refocus your mind on your priorities, and it’s much easier than launching straight into study on day one. In other words, start small and you’ll get there.

2. Add a little bit of fun to your everyday life

Getting back into study is hard because we think we have to be studious 24-7 to get good results. While it is important to put in the work, it’s equally important to treat yourself on a regular basis.

If you find a way to add some fun into your everyday routine, you’ll be more likely to stick to it. We’re not saying ditch your notes and head to the beach; instead, set small goals and reward yourself with something you love doing at the end of each study session.

3. Plan your next holiday

One of the main reasons we get depressed after a holiday comes to an end is because it feels like it will be YEARS before we’ll get a chance to go on another one. So why not start planning for your next adventure now?

It may be months before you can get away, but planning is a good cure for wanderlust. It will also motivate you to work harder and save more money – a win-win situation.