How do I handle boredom? How can I stop myself from getting distracted in the middle of a task? How do I know what to prioritize? Is it OK to take time to relax even when my work is not done? Am I irresponsible if I do not have all my work done on time? When does self care become task avoidance?
Great questions. As usual, there are multiple layers to this topic. When trying to decipher how you can get over your boredom, think about your energy level before trying to do anything. Sometimes, boredom can be caused by lack of energy, and other times, it’s just about a lack of interest in a topic.
Once you have assessed your energy levels, you can decide if you need some rest time or if you can take the task or information and incorporate it into something that you enjoy.
Getting distracted is inevitable for some people. It all depends on the person’s attention span.
When you have a short attention span, it can be hard to stay on topic for a prolonged period of time. In some scenarios you can take breaks and jump from one topic to another, making it easier to make actual progress on a task. Other times, you do not have the ability to switch topics.When that happens, I recommend trying to relate something you’re passionate about to what’s boring you. Keep it present in your mind.
When talking about prioritization, I want it emphasized that your mental and physical health are top priority no matter what. After that, someone’s priorities should be theirs to formulate, not anyone else’s decision.
That being said, you can look to people that inspire you for inspiration on your priorities. You should let yourself find out what means the most to you and figure out what you want for your future. Prioritize whatever can get you there.
Relaxation is a necessity in life. You’ll be unproductive if you never take time for yourself. If you need to take a break to recharge, then taking the break only becomes a problem when you lack a balance of relaxation and productivity.
Unfortunately, deadlines are not always flexible. It is important to know when something is on a flexible deadline and how serious the consequences of missing it are.
When it comes to flexible deadlines in classes, the professor is most likely concerned about your health and the quality of your work. With those professors, make sure to keep up a stream of constant communication. They want to work with you and help you be successful.
In classes where the deadline is finite, the professors are probably under a lot more time constraints, and not all of them make these deadlines out of cruelty. The best thing in those kinds of classes is to make sure the work is done and to try not to miss deadlines as much as you can. If something happens and the teacher refuses to accommodate your situation, then you can either find make-up work or talk to someone who is willing to help. The amount of responsibility we have can be overwhelming, but everyone can handle it with the right help when needed.
Do you need some advice? Are people in your life too indecisive?
Do you need a new point of view?
Just email me at [email protected].
