Animals, just like humans, have a wide range of personality traits such as laziness, which can gain them quite a reputation.
So what’s the difference between these animals and students? Are they both lazy by nature? Ermm, I can’t say no to that but I can’t say yes, either.
Unlike some lazy animals such as the dormouse which can hibernate six months out of the year, students are workaholics by nature. The feeling of regret that follows procrastination is clear evidence of that.
With all that worrying about the work that should be done, it’s often hard to find a moment to truly relax without thinking about deadlines. So how do you actually distinguish when to work, play, or rest?
Look at the polar bears, masters of the art of chilling – these animals lead simple lives. They hunt when there’s plenty of food, storing fat reserves in preparation for tougher months, and then rest for up to 87% of their time. I think, as students, we should all follow their example. Work when you’re concentrated and keep any excessive fruits of your labour for the times when you’re less energetic.
You need to find a time when you’re completely focused and use it to be more effective in completing your tasks. Some people have more energy in the morning and that’s the time when they can successfully concentrate on their work. Personally I prefer to work in the evening because everybody’s sleeping, there’s nothing exciting to watch on TV and there are no major distractions that can interrupt the process of studying.
We know the beginning is the hardest part. Another good method is to get the easiest work done first. I know most people would say it’s better to get rid of the hard work first but sometimes you find yourself in the situation of staying in front of a blank screen for too long and not knowing where to start from. First of all, it’s depressing, and second, it’s a waste of time. In these situations, I advise you not to follow the polar bear principle. Start with the simplest tasks and use them as a warm up activity for your brain. After you speed up, nothing can stop you.
Try and see if these simple techniques work for you in your studies and you can too master the art of relaxation, knowing all the hard work is already done.
Worcester Student Life 