As we enter the Easter holidays, we caught up with LSE’s Peer Supporters to get their advice on how to be kind to yourself while studying away from campus.
Set boundaries and plan active downtime
“Create physical boundaries between ‘work’ and ‘not work’ (e.g. if possible, work at the dining table, relax in the living room). You can also create boundaries in your study plan, scheduling in downtime to make sure you get enough – this can also help limit procrastination while you’re studying. Try engaging in active downtime instead of passive (reading a book or drawing vs Netflix). Active downtime gives time more structure, and can help it feel like a particular task isn’t dragging.”
Give yourself time to adjust and find a schedule that works for you
“I’ve personally been suggesting that people just do the bare minimum for a few days to allow themselves to adjust to a new schedule, and be more kind and forgiving to themselves. Some people find it useful to make schedules that fit their own waking times, e.g. 1 pm-4 am, instead of a 9-5 schedule if you’re having trouble sleeping, especially while getting over jet lag.”
“I feel that it is especially important to maintain some type of schedule. I have found that waking at regular times as well as going on daily walks helps to give my day a sense of purpose and stay motivated.“
Focus on each small achievement
“The normal structured studying tips are more important now than ever, such as making a solid to-do list broken into tasks that are actually doable (e.g. revisiting 1 lecture per check box) and crossing it off so you can visually see how far you’ve come.”
Stay connected with classmates virtually
“I’ve found the use of video calling to be a good way to stay in touch with friends and family but also to engage in group style working, almost replicating a class-type environment. Self-isolation can be very lonely but I’ve found this to be a fantastic way to emulate meeting friends in real life.”
Exams will be okay
“It’s important to remember that LSE is on your side and that everyone is in the same boat. I personally find assessments to be very stressful but I take some comfort in the fact that, for the first time ever, I am able to take my exams in a much more familiar environment.”
Get in touch if you’d like to talk
We encourage anyone who feels that they need support or wishes to contact us to take a quick look at our webpage.
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