No matter where you are in your academic journey, staying motivated is critical to keep you on track to achieving your desired goals. We’ll share 5 tips to help you keep your motivation high during the year.
1. Prioritise sleep
One of the most overlooked aspects of motivation is the quality of your sleep. Consistent good sleep ensures that you are feeling refreshed and energised to tackle your tasks each day. Health Direct recommends that adults get between 7 to 9 hours of sleep each night to boost their energy levels, concentration, and overall well-being. Teenagers need more sleep than adults, and the Australian Department of Health suggests that teenagers get between 8 to 10 hours of sleep each night.
Everyone needs a different amount of sleep to function effectively, so find what works for you and give yourself proper rest. Creating a bedtime routine, that involves putting down your phone, is key to ensuring that you are able to sleep quickly and have a relaxing night.
2. Set clear and achievable goals
Make sure to create SMART goals to ensure your goals are attainable and realistic. Setting clear goals allows you to measure your progress and re-adjust accordingly. It’s important to break these goals into smaller, more easily achievable tasks to make them more manageable and less overwhelming. Your goals can guide your priorities and help you plan what to tackle every day.
3. Celebrate your achievements, big and small
Don’t underestimate the power of celebrating your accomplishments. Whether it’s acing a test, completing a project, or achieving a personal milestone, take the time to acknowledge your hard work. Reward yourself with a treat, a day off, or a small celebration with friends and family. These positive reinforcement moments can boost your motivation and remind you of your progress towards your goals.
Hear from our Counselling Psychologist
Ruth from Curtin’s Psychology and Counselling service is here with twelve strategies for picking yourself up, managing yourself and improving your motivation to help you stay on track this year.
4. Surround yourself with supportive peers
High school can be challenging, but you don’t have to navigate it alone. A key element of staying motivated comes from surrounding yourself with people who share your goals and aspirations. This can be your friends or classmates who are supportive and motivate you when you need it most. They also come in handy for those study sessions in the library and are great study partners.
5. Practice Self-Compassion
Lastly, be kind to yourself. High school can be demanding, and it’s normal to face moments of self-doubt. Practice self-compassion by acknowledging your efforts and progress, even when things don’t go as planned. Remember that setbacks are a part of the journey, and they don’t define your worth or potential.
Sophie, Bachelor of Commerce (Accounting and Finance)
It’s super important to prioritise your mental health. If you have to have a day off studying to take a break for your mental health – that’s OK. Additionally, if you feel you need to see a psychologist or counsellor, I highly recommend you do so.
In conclusion, staying motivated throughout high school requires a combination of self-care, clear goals, organization, and a supportive environment. By prioritising sleep, focusing on your goals, celebrating your achievements, and following these tips, you can navigate high school with determination, resilience, and a thriving motivation to succeed.
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