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Frequently rewarding, occasionally tedious, sometimes maddening – students understand that studying can elicit a wide range of feelings. It all depends on the amount of work you have in front of you, the stakes involved, and your current mood.
Every so often, the anxious part of your brain takes over. There’s too much to do! What will happen if you don’t pass this assignment? Why can’t you just be calm, cool and collected?
Then, stress gets in the way of your studies. You find it more difficult to focus as your heart races, or your brain works overtime to process your anxiety. Soon, the stress itselfbecomes a source of stress. How are you supposed to focus when you’re so nervous?
Stress can kickstart a vicious cycle. Luckily, there are ways to mitigate and manage your stress as you complete your diploma at home online. First off, understand that your stress is a natural, common response. It happens to everyone. You just need to take proactive steps to quell it.
If you want to enter the spring with less stress in your studies, follow these four easy tips.
Kick the Negative Self-Talk
The same way one can be mean to others, one can be mean to oneself. The most intimate relationship you have is with your own thoughts – you are the person you talk to most often. If much of that interior dialogue is given over to criticism, insults and undervaluation, then, at a certain point, you may start to believe yourself.
To manage stress, start with your interior dialogue. Rather than criticize yourself for perceived failures and shortcomings, praise yourself for successes and attempts. A little positive self-talk goes a long way!
Take Meditative Breaks
Breaks are a crucial part of studying. Even if you feel the need to endlessly cram for tomorrow’s big test or tirelessly work on a paper throughout the night, you still need to give yourself space for decompression.
Try taking meditative breaks. Read this article on how to practice mindfulness at home, then try sitting quietly, focusing on your breath. If the stillness doesn’t work for you, try yoga – a meditative practice as ancient as it is popular.
Get Prepared
For many students, the source of their anxiety is a lack of preparedness. They leave things until the last minute and then get stressed as they battle against an imminent deadline.
When you enroll in an online school, they give you 12 months to complete a course, and you manage your time flexibly. Make use of that flexibility. Stay prepared for upcoming deadlines and tests. If you do, you may find them a lot less stressful.
Take Care of Your Body’s Basic Needs
Finally, take care of your body’s basic needs. Stress is, in part, a physiological response. If you are tired and hungry, your chances of stressing out skyrocket. Remember toeat well,sleep well and take deep, satisfying breaths.Even if it means leaving the laptop to get a sandwich or take a power nap, go for it. Your body, your brain and even your teacher will thank you for it.
Don’t let stress take hold of your education. Reclaim your study space and hit the books with a fresh, new outlook this spring.
