To attempt combating this productivity slump, I thought I'd share some motivational techniques and tips to de-stress I'm going to use in 2015 and beyond!
1. Make lots of lists!
I have a journal that I use almost every day to make simple to-do lists. If you have an iPhone, I would also recommend using the 'Notes' app (comes with the phone). If you have a Mac, I would highly recommend using Evernote! Sometimes I'll write something as simple as "Make coffee" or "Pick up your room floor". The satisfaction that you get from checking something off is oddly satisfying and really gets me motivated!2. Plan your outfit the night before.
Doesn't matter if it's for school or simply for a lazy Sunday, plan what you're wearing the night before! This is especially helpful when you want to work out in the morning; putting your gym bag at the side of your bed reminds you to get up and get going!3. Don't forget to take a break!
Last Christmas my mom gave me a yoga mat and for about a month I was pretty into using it. I think it's a great way to just take a break and relax, and I'm hoping to incorporate it more into my routine this year. Remember, down time is extremely important! Wether you read a chapter of a book before bed or take a break from homework to go on a run, just take some time to do something you enjoy.4. Focus through music.
I don't know about anyone else but I find it much easier to concentrate when I'm listening to instrumental music. Get onto Spotify and find the 'Browse' tab. (If you don't have one click here to get it! It's free!) Under that you'll find the 'Genres and Moods' tab, and the Focus playlists are near the top. I could go to Starbucks for hours on end listening to this stuff and studying my butt off. If it helps you it's definitely worth a shot to try out. My Spotify is emily.smith1397 if you want to check out my personal favorites!5. Wake up the right way.
5:30: hits snooze button. 5:40: hits snooze button. 5:45: throws phone at the wall in frustration because no human being should have to wake up before the sun. In fact, it's unnatural for people to wake up before the sun rises, which is why everyone should go check out the Wake-up Light by Philips. While it does have a hefty price tag, it has been proven to make your wake-up routine much easier and more natural. The light starts to gradually brighten before you wake up to simulate a sunrise, and it can even wake you up with chirping birds. Learn more about this great product here!
Hope this was helpful! I realize I don't have much of a following at this point, only my second post, but I have some great ideas coming your way! Stay tuned.
tbc,
Em
