Winning the battle against spring fever
Posted by The Skyliner on February 18th, 2009Samantha Mayo
Staff Writer
With the weather improving fast, spring fever is spreading over campus like an epidemic. Sitting in class for hours and focusing on studies becomes much more difficult when the sun is shining. Many students struggle to keep attending classes and doing all their work. So what do you do to keep going when you feel your focus slipping?
One solution to dealing with distractions is to set up a reward system for yourself. Make a list of goals to accomplish. Then take some time off to enjoy the weather after you complete your goals.
For instance, you could set a goal to attend all your classes. If you accomplished that goal, you could reward yourself by playing ultimate Frisbee with your friends. You could decide that if you finished a paper by a certain time, you would grab some ice cream with a friend and enjoy it outside. By implementing this goal-rewards system, you can be productive while still making sure you have a chance to enjoy the lovely weather while it lasts.
Anna Marie Rhodes, freshman English, has her own reward system integrated into her study habits. She says that rewarding yourself with time off is the key to staying motivated.
“I don’t push myself to the point where I’m longing to be outside. I give myself mini breaks to refresh myself before I get back to work,” Rhodes said.
Doing homework outside can also help you stay productive while getting your fill of sunshine.
“I like to take my reading and sit on a swing or lay outside,” Kassandra Williams, junior psychology, said.
By taking your homework outside, you can finish it without having to be stuck indoors on a beautiful day.
If you do have to remain indoors to study, Rachel Baker, junior business administration, suggests keeping the blinds open to let in the sunlight.
Walking to classes is another way to take advantage of the good weather. Forget about driving. Save gas, get some exercise and enjoy the sunshine before you have to sit in class.
Keeping deadlines, goals and assignments in mind may also help you stay focused.
Hayley Smith, junior marketing, says that the pressure from tests and assignments is what keeps her on target. However, she also takes time to enjoy herself.
“I try to set aside time for things that are fun, but I still set aside time to study and do what I need to do,” Smith said.
Remember to set aside time to get out and have some fun. Try clearing a few hours after classes to relax and appreciate the weather. Take a walk, play a game of Frisbee, have lunch outside or ride with your car windows down and your favorite songs playing. Make sure you give yourself something to look forward to after a long day of classes. After all, sometimes the best way to deal with a distraction like spring weather is to simply allow yourself time to enjoy it.