Ways to Spruce Up a Motivation Lull
If you're anything like me, post-finals period looks like a major Netflix binge and sleeping brigade; a much needed self-love sesh to prevent severe burn out. However, if you're also anything like me, this relapse into loafing and overt relaxation is addictive and dangerously difficult to eventually snap out of. I have rounded up some of my favorite tricks and tips to jump start productivity - employ a couple for a quick motivation boost or throw yourself a jumpstart party and do them all!
Change Your Desktop Wallpaper
This is quite the free and easy, yet impactful solution to refreshing your surroundings. You spend hours looking at this background - why not fill it with inspirational images/quotes/organization spreads? My personal favorite sites to find new backgrounds are Ban.do and Design Love Fest's Dress Your Tech Series.
Bonus Tip // For uber productivity vibes, throw in a monthly calendar background (you can also DIY this very easily - I just make a grid in Numbers and overlay it over the background I want!).
Images via Black Lamb Studio on Dress My Tech at Design Love Fest. March Calendar added by yours truly.
Plan, Plan, Plan
Draw some inspiration from the plethora of bullet journal and calligraphy shots on Pinterest/Tumblr/Instagram (#studyinspo #studyblr #bujo and the like are gold mines) and spend some minutes productively procrastinating and getting some creative juices flowing. If you're needing an extra pick me up, try out some new pens and stationary supplies - I'm a junkie for fountain pens and Stabilo Boss Pastel Highlighters.
Get a Move On - Try a New Workout!
There is nothing like some tried and tested endorphins to get your energy up and mood boosted. It is always a struggle for me to get myself to the gym so I have two tricks to get you in the spirit
Try a New Class // Check out Groupon, local studios (see Refinery29's 11 Chicago Gyms That Will Change The Way You Work Out for some cool ideas), Class Pass for free or discount offers and get out of your comfort zone and treat yourself to a new experience. If you go downtown, treat yourself to a scenic cafe for a productive, post workout power hour.
Bribe Yourself with TV // Save your favorite show's new episode for the elliptical/treadmill/bike/whatever it is you do best (but also dread). Treat it as a study break and fit in a workout at the same time!
Discover a New Spot
As much as I do love the stacks at the Reg, the monotony and grey tones sometimes crush my motivation mojo and I need a scenic new escape to type essays on essays. Check out some of MODA's recs on cool study spots off campus to update your study scene.
