September is all about new beginnings—the coming of autumn, sunny days, fresh air, and the start of a new semester. And for many, it is a month of motivation. The days at university pass by in the blink of an eye, and soon enough, those long nights spent at the library will pay off.
To achieve whatever you desire this year, staying motivated every step of the way is important. Here are some ways to ensure you stay on track this semester!
Set Goals
The first step to setting attainable goals is thinking about what you want to accomplish and how. Goals can be big or small, from wishing to meet new people to getting more involved in extracurriculars.
Moreover, there is no limit to what you can achieve. Setting short-term goals will bring you one step closer to your long-term goals.
Every student is on their own journey to achieving what they want and every person’s path looks different. Setting goals will help you stay focused on your journey and give you a sense of purpose.
Stay Organised
The beginning of the semester is usually when students are the most organised, and soon enough their desks are cluttered, files are getting lost, and all they need is a break.
It is easy to get caught up in work during the semester, and in some cases, it is difficult to stay organised. Be sure to arrange documents and files in folders dedicated to each class or activity.
A calendar app can help you log all of your important dates and events so you don’t forget things like the first football game of the season, your final exam, and (more importantly) your mom’s birthday.
There is no better feeling than returning home from a long day of classes to a clean room and warm, cosy bed.
Make a Plan
Often, people have big aspirations but have no clue where to start. Planning is integral for staying organised and making key decisions that contribute to your goals.
This will also help you prioritise important things and push you in the right direction. Consider the resources and time you may need and the steps you have to take to accomplish a goal.
Creating a weekly schedule will help you maintain a routine, stay organised, and increase productivity throughout the semester. Also, don’t underestimate the power of a planner; they may be old school, but they still do the job!
Ask For Help
One of the best parts of university is the plethora of resources given to students—a wide range from academic help to mental health services.
Professors and teaching assistants offer office hours outside of class for one-on-one assistance. Advisors offer significant career advice. Join clubs and groups to network with and learn from peers.
People are always willing to offer help; taking advantage of it brings you closer to reaching your goals. Getting involved is crucial for success in university. The connections made can offer a lot in the future and change your life along the way.
Take Time Off
University is not always about studying all day. Your worth as a person is not dependent on how high your grades are. Instead, it is about how driven you are, how you tackle challenges, and what you learn from your experiences.
The time and freedom you get in your university years are precious. Expand your horizons because you won’t know what you are capable of if you don’t try new things. In the end, hard work and effort will pay off.
Have lunch with that friend you made on the bus. Watch the sports game. Join the club that always interested you. Do the things that excite you.
Take care of yourself, stay healthy, and keep pushing through the rest of the year!
Words by Vidhi Koli