Every year when freshmen take their first step on campus, they quickly realize that high school is nothing like the movies. Flashy lockers and weekly parties are nowhere to be seen. Most students stick to their groups and try to keep their grades afloat. While this may be the norm, the endless loop of waking up at the same time every morning and mindlessly sitting through classes can become draining. Our students’ mental health matters so if you feel like you’re on autopilot, put these tips into consideration.
Playlists: Music has been scientifically proven to help the brain focus and raise dopamine levels. “Music engages the areas of the brain involved with paying attention, making predictions and updating the event in memory,” according to a Stanford University study. Listening to your favorite tracks during class change or free time can boost your mood or act as free quick therapy. Whether it’s an upbeat playlist to help you wake up, or instrumentals for studying, make sure to organize the songs into a playlist so you can click play and walk in the hall without worry.
School supplies: Stationary is often very overlooked, but it can be very motivating. Cute pens and folders can make something so mundane a lot more exciting. In the back to school rush, things can get very stressful and sell out quickly; but even if you are left with plain folders, you can still decorate them to look cute. Stickers, prints, drawings and washi tapes are all things that can make your supplies look Pinterest worthy. Pins and patches are also a great way to personalize your bags so people can get a glimpse at your interests.
Specialty drinks: A lot of us rely on caffeine to make it through the day. Although it may not be the healthiest, it certainly makes a refreshing start to your morning. Specialty coffees and teas are a good way to help you focus and get a quick boost for your classes. If you don’t have the money to buy a drink in the morning, you could also try buying fruits to make infused water or smoothies. Lemons, strawberries, mint and cucumbers are all great and healthy options to enhance your cup of ice water.
Putting down your phone: It’s a well known fact that phones are not the best for you. While they are entertaining, they also cause a lot of distractions during school. Deviceless hobbies may not be everyone’s cup of tea, but they can be very captivating. Crocheting, knitting, reading and drawing are all creative outlets to keep you in a mindset that will allow you to effortlessly get back to studying. Not to mention, teachers are more likely to let you indulge in these hobbies during free time. So try to explore new book genres and art prompts to feel engaged.
Wardrobe: Fashion, one of the best ways to express yourself. Clothing and accessories can truly define who you are as an individual. First impressions are important to a lot of people, and so is maintaining their appearance. You should feel comfortable and confident in your skin, so dress how you want and express your individuality. Anything can look good if you style it right, so make things your own. Confidence is key, just be sure to follow the dress code.
It’s hard to make responsibilities like work and school interesting, but it isn’t impossible. If you struggle to find the motivation you need for school, consider grabbing a ball of yarn or a pack of cute stickers the next time you run to the store.