design: Lily Wood
Nearly the entire senior class is currently dealing with the same issue—college application induced stress. With students’ busy lives, it is incredibly important that one still takes the time to relax.
Separating one’s workspace from one’s relaxation space can be an effective way to both reduce stress and be more productive. This became evident with the large increase in employees working-from-home following the COVID-19 pandemic. Work and home lives were blurred, creating the feeling of a never-ending workday.
Students and adults can avoid this by creating a specific space to do their work. In the absence of an office setting, creating a spot in one’s home purely for work provides the separation needed. Students can also consider other locations such as their local library or even a coffee shop. Neuroscience has shown that people tend to be more productive in a setting with some background noise—this has been coined “The Coffee Shop Effect”, according to Inc.com. I have been to numerous coffee shops in the area but have ultimately frequented the Olentangy River Brewing Company the most. Finding a location that works for you can allow you to be more productive while also supporting local businesses.
Blocking out time in one’s schedule to take a break or do something enjoyable is also vital to a good work-life balance. In fact, taking breaks can actually improve one’s overall productivity and allow one to accomplish more of one’s goals in a shorter amount of time, according to Medium.com. Having a snack, going on a walk, or even taking a power nap can boost productivity and improve creativity. These short breaks should be taken whenever one feels overworked or a has a lack of motivation. I choose to play a game on my phone or even read a chapter of a book.
Focusing on one’s physical health can also benefit one’s mental health and productivity. Physical activity produces endorphins which help to reduce stress, maintaining a healthy diet also has a positive effect, according to Forbes.com.
Setting some goals for each day can create consistency and organization. Although, one should set just a couple of goals that are realistic and attainable as to not overwhelm themselves. Check off these goals as they are met, this will clearly show that a something has been accomplished. I like to make a to-do list on a piece of paper every day. Although, at first I didn’t always meet my goals, now I regularly accomplish what I set out to do.
Many high school students tend to get distracted by their phones as well. This can set you back as you try and get work done. To combat this problem, I either put my phone on do not disturb or place it out of my reach. This removes the urge to constantly check your phone and will allow for a consistent workflow.
Creating a schedule and utilizing these techniques will allow one to save time while also getting more work done. Once one finds what works for them, they will be more productive. Most importantly, this will leave time for one to spend more time with their friends and family.
