i’m in a really important academic year right now and i want to do well so badly. like the motivation is there in my head but when it comes to actually sitting down and studying, i just can’t. i procrastinate so much and then i end up feeling guilty and horrible about it.
i know i have potential but i don’t feel like i’m doing enough to reach it. i want to be confident and actually feel like a good student, someone who’s consistent and focused. but right now i feel lost and honestly a bit useless. i don’t know how to stop this cycle.
if anyone has tips on how to just start studying and stay consistent or any advice in general, i’d really appreciate it. i need help.
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Overthinking it is the worst! You’ve just got to start even if it’s 10 minutes just make a start and that will build momentum and you’ll find yourself carrying on. I’m in the same boat wanting to study maths as I failed it in school but it’s boring and I can’t be bothered but I know it’ll be helpful in the future 🥲
Look up apps that lock down your phone or browser for certain amounts of time so you can’t use them to procrastinate. Try studying in public like your campus library. Find a friend and study together. There’s a million different tactics but honestly it’s something you have to just force yourself to do. Bribe yourself with study snacks.
Ah, the eternal struggle of “wanting to do the thing” vs. “actually doing the thing.” Been there, still visit sometimes. Here’s what helps me: start stupid small. Like, “I’ll just open the textbook and read one paragraph” small. No pressure. Half the time, you’ll keep going once you’re in. The other half? Hey, at least you did the paragraph. Progress is progress.
And when your brain’s being extra stubborn, here’s my go-to move: explain the topic out loud like you’re teaching it to your cat. Yeah, sounds dumb as hell, but it works – suddenly you’re focusing without even trying. No cat? A coffee mug will judge you just as well. Point is, trick your brain into thinking it’s not “studying,” just talking. Way easier to start.
You’re not useless, you’re just stuck in the procrastination doom spiral. Break it by doing literally anything tiny. Then build from there. You got this.
This is one of my worst problems and it’s easier said than done but it’s gotten better with age – it’s all excuses and throwing adult temper tantrums. You don’t want to do it so your brain spins out until you’re telling yourself you’re a useless human being.
It seems so dramatic but it’s just an adult temper tantrum. I put myself in an isolation tank situation and I kick and scream internally until I have no choice but to get to work because I’m bored. Then I try to block out anything spinning through my mind as I get my work done.
One tip that might help is to set small, achievable goals for your study sessions. Instead of thinking about the entire subject or all the material, try focusing on just one topic for 25 minutes. You can use a timer for this—it’s often called the Pomodoro Technique, and it can make starting feel less overwhelming. Plus, taking a short break after each session can keep your mind fresh! Also, creating a cozy and distraction-free study space can make a big difference. Find a spot that feels good to you; maybe add some plants or your favorite snacks to make it inviting
For some reason it looks like u are a hsc’25 candidate. And I am going through same kind of complications right now.
Someone who have a toddler to look after sole bread winner , having lost my sis in law recently and taking care of her new born baby along with taking care of household duties and if I make time to study why can’t you