January can be a hard time for everybody – it’s cold, dark, and we’re all feeling the hit after a couple of weeks of increased sugar/alcohol intake and a lack of routine. But we can’t let that stop us from performing our best at college or university, so here are our best tips for ensuring you make the most of this month in your studies…
Make sure you’re getting enough sleep
A good night’s sleep is really important at any time of year, but particularly when you might be struggling. Sleep is the time when your body is able to rest and heal, and it also helps with hormone production. So be sure you’re getting your 8 hours as often as possible, no matter how tempting it might be to stay up catching up with your flatmates! Take advantage of the January sales to invest in some cosy bedding or an extra blanket, and try to avoid caffeine and heavy meals at night. This will help you snuggle up and drift off with ease.
Communicate with others
If you’re feeling down at this time of year, or you’re stressed about your studies, be sure to communicate with those around you. Let your friends know how you’re feeling, and keep in touch with your family back home to get their support. Be sure to speak to your tutors and other faculty members to let them know if you need any extra help with your work!
Stay hydrated
This is important when the weather’s warm, but equally as important during the colder months – drink plenty of water and juice while you’re studying to keep you hydrated and help your brain keep going.
Strike a work-life balance
Because you’ve just had a period of time off, it can be difficult to get back into the swing of things – so don’t go in all guns blazing and start studying all day, every day throughout January. Keep a work-life balance going, by scheduling set times when you’ll be studying and other times when you’ll be relaxing, having fun, practising self care and so on. You need to take regular breaks and look after yourself!
Limit distractions when you are studying
During those chosen study times, be sure to limit your distractions. When you’re getting back into the habit of working hard, it can be easy to pick up your phone and scroll through all those ‘what I got for Christmas’ videos on TikTok or do a sneaky bit of online sale shopping. Try putting your phone in another room while you study, or just turning it off…
Hopefully all of these tips will help you get back into the swing of things this January, after some well-deserved time off during the Christmas break. Good luck with all of your studies and exams in 2024! Easing back into the New Year isn’t always easy but it doesn’t have to be difficult.
