How to stay motivated while studying/working remotely

How to stay motivated while studying/working remotely Aakanksha Tangri

We’re in the midst of an unprecedented situation — only a few months ago we were going to the mall, hanging out with friends, and going to school or the office. Normal life as we know it has changed and COVID-19 not only brings with it physical challenges but also is taking a toll on our mental well-being. While previously we would find excuses to cancel plans, it’s now not uncommon to promise ourselves “when all this ends, I’m never turning down an invite again.”

We’re all adjusting to our new realities which include working and studying from home, and it can be hard to focus when your bed or comfy couch are right there as well as the whole family buzzing around. So how exactly are you meant to be productive during this time? Here, Aakanksha Tangri, founder of Re:Set, the online resource providing tools and stories around education, parenting, gender, inclusivity, mental health and well-being, provides some simple ways to stay motivated while you work or study from home.

Routine, routine, routine! There will be days where you won’t feel like leaving your bed or being productive, and it’s important to allow yourself to have that time and space to recover. This is a situation we’re all adjusting to on a daily basis, so it’s only natural to feel low every once and awhile. However, the best thing to do at this time is to set a routine — if you used to wake up at 7 am before, do that now. Leave your bed, dress up for the day like you previously would (or at least change out of your pajamas into comfortable track pants), and carry out your routine like you used to. It’ll give you a sense of normal-

cy and allow you to thrive on a pattern that’s worked for you before all this unpredictability.

Make each other accountable Share with a family member, colleague or classmate the challenges you’re facing, your to-do list and deadlines and make them hold you accountable. This way if you’re feeling less than motivated, you have someone who can check in on you and keep you on track. If you’re in school, give online group study sessions a shot — it’ll make you feel connected to your friends while at the same time you can all be productive together and even take breaks at the same time like you did when you were on campus.

Small tasks matter Even the small tasks matter and can help you feel productive and motivated. Something as simple as making your bed in the morning is “correlated with better productivity and a greater sense of well-being.” Try to tackle one small task at a time such as putting your clothes in the wash, finishing a chapter or even writing 500 words for that paper that’s due — this will not only help cross items off your to-do list, but you’ll also feel productive.

Schedule Create a schedule and try sticking to it as much as possible. If you’re an early riser or you work best at night, factor that in. You can’t change your habits overnight. A schedule will also ensure you don’t get distracted and binge-watch a show or take naps in the middle of the workday just because you’re at home. That said, do make sure you factor in breaks and time for you to reset yourself mentally and physically as this is equally important for your mental health and well-being.

Find a space This can be particularly hard with all family members at home, but designate a space where you will work from whether that’s the dining table, your couch or even the balcony when weather permits. When you are at this designated spot, you’ll know it’s time for you to work and you’ll have a sense of consistency to keep you going even when everything around you has changed.

Think long-term and plan for the future With the lack of timelines around containing COVID-19, it can all feel like a blur and be demotivating. While that’s understandable, allow yourself space and permission to think longterm and get excited about making plans for the future. What do you want to achieve next year? What are the steps you can take in the present moment to reach your goals? Looking to the future and everything you still want to do can help motivate you on days you’re feeling low. It can be as simple as telling yourself you’ll go to your favourite restaurant when all this is over or apply for that internship. Setting long-term goals will give you something to work toward and take your mind off of the current situation.

Find delight in the everyday In these uncertain times, it is important to find joy in the every day to stay motivated. We all need to take the time to feel good and break up the monotony, so find something you enjoy and make sure you carve time out of your day just for you. Try meditation, partaking in an at-home workout or just listen to your favourite music. When you are feeling low, turn to friends and family to talk about what you might be going through. Of course, there are also many online resources, such as Re:Set, that are there to support you and offer solutions, education and words of encouragement via community conversations when times get tough. Just try to remember we are all in this together.

For more information, please visit resetfest. com.