Feeling unmotivated in class? Tired of studying and simply completing assignments to turn them in? We at The Edge know the stress that college students face because we are college students. It’s easy to feel like school is a continuous cycle, reliving the same day over and over. As mid-semester quickly approaches, that also means midterms. In an effort to get out of that mid-semester slump, here are a few tips to help you destress and get back on track.

Find a new study spot

Oftentimes people get into a slump because of the same routine. Certain things like class schedules cannot be changed, but finding a new place to study can help increase motivation and work ethic. We all know it’s difficult to get work done with a lot of distractions around, so finding a quiet place, away from roommates, can help boost those study habits and earn those A’s. For Elon students, some of our favorite places include Global Commons, Sankey Hall, and LaRose Commons!

Loving this study aesthetic. Photo: Anna Grenier

Make a new playlist

Music is an outlet for so many people. It’s a chance to disconnect from the outside world and just think. Listening to the same music over and over can get tiring, so finding new music or artists to listen to can make a world of a difference in boosting your mood.

Get outside

It is finally starting to warm up here in North Carolina, so time to ditch the coats and trade them in for shorts. With the warm weather and Elon’s beautiful campus, there are endless ways to get outside. Find a spot to study outside around campus, walk to class instead of driving, or sign up for a workout class. Exercise is a natural endorphin booster and helps lower stress. So take advantage of the spring weather and get some fresh air!

Need more convincing to get out on our gorgeous campus? We got you. Photo: Anna Grenier

Go for a drive

Let’s be honest, who doesn’t love driving? Going for a drive is the perfect way to clear your head, even if it’s just a quick one. Whether a late-night drive, blasting music with friends, or just going solo, this is a go-to for many people. Life can be hectic, so having an outlet to get your mind off things for a while is crucial.

Prioritize self-care

Feeling unmotivated often influences how we feel about ourselves. College is stressful, and it’s very important to take time for yourself among all the responsibilities students have to deal with. As silly as it seems, things like eating well and getting enough rest can have a huge impact on productivity and ensuring we have enough energy to get things done. Don’t be afraid to take a step back and prioritize your mental health and well-being, your body will thank you later.

Make a list

Lists are a go-to for so many people in order to get things done. We at The Edge use them almost daily. There is nothing more satisfying than being able to cross things off the list at the end of the day. This action shows accomplishment and satisfaction and is a measure of productivity. Be sure to include things that make you happy on the list too, it’s the perfect incentive to work through the rough stuff.

Look forward to something

Lastly, find something to look forward to. The weeks often look the same, day in and day out. Whether it’s a birthday, special event, or even simply the weekend, having something to look forward to will provide motivation to get through the week. Usually, the lead-up to that event is almost as exciting as the event itself and is guaranteed to help pick you up out of that slump.

We wish you luck as midterms approach and hope some of these tips can help you stay sane and do well. We believe in you!

Hitting That Mid-Semester Slump? Here's How to Beat It