The workload associated with being a BCIT student is pretty intense. This means, students like myself, have to spend most of their “free” time studying and reviewing their notes. As the hours go by at my desk, I have started to notice just how many things are out there trying to prevent me from being productive. Knowing that it is completely under my own control doesn’t seem to make ignoring these distractions any easier. Here are the ones that hurt my studying quality and quantity the most :
10. Daydreaming
One second I’m reading about the lymphatic drainage of the bronchioles and the next second I am thinking about that time I was at Deer Lake walking in the snow.
9. Music
I like to listen to music when I study (although I know that has proven to make studying less productive). When a REALLY good song comes on, I end up singing instead of studying.
8. Napping
Student life makes me sleepy.
7. Yoga/ stretching
Sitting for a long time makes my body hurt and as soon as that happens, I like to take stretching breaks, it’s a good thing but still takes away from my notes.
8. The Gym
Studying for hours makes me antsy and since I live on campus the gym is close. Again, it’s a good thing but still takes up study time.
5. Snacking
Studying makes me hungry and if I’m near a kitchen I will end up there more often than I should.
4. Pinterest
If I start to daydream about crafts, home décor, or food I may absentmindedly open Pinterest.
3. Texting
If my phone buzzes, my attention leaves my notes instantly.
2. Instagram
This is another one that happens without me consciously being aware of it and I find myself throwing away 10-15 minutes scrolling through random photos.
1. Netflix
This is every students’ best friend at break time and enemy when studying is necessary.
Unfortunately, I don’t have a lot of advice when it comes to avoiding all these distractors. I believe some of them are good for refreshing your mind and taking a break, just not too many breaks!