Second semester.  The final stretch before summer.  Thoughts of a long break from essays and tests fill the heads of every student, which can make for a very unfocused last few months of learning.  Staying motivated, keeping up with work, and maintaining good grades seems almost impossible at this point in the year; however, there are ways to overcome the exhaustion from fall semester, and the long spring semester ahead.

There are many ways to stay motivated and on task during the second semester.  For example, do not think about the whole semester at once.  Taking it a bit at a time will make the months ahead look less overwhelming and long.  Another way to stay motivated is to reward yourself with something special once and a while.  Whether it is after a huge project, after getting a good grade on a test, or simply getting through another month of school; rewarding yourself will make boring or hard things seem less dreadful.  Plus, taking a moment to congratulate yourself after overcoming an obstacle is good for your mental health, and gives you something to look forward to.  Keeping up with your work is also very important during the second half of the year.  During the time when boredom and neglect creep in, it is very important to find ways to prevent a decrease in work efficiency and grade average.  For instance, using a planner will help organize the work that you have to get done, and will keep you accountable for what does not get finished.  Also, setting goals for where you want to be work and grade wise at the end of each week, or month, will give you a sense of urgency and focus.  Having a goal of what you need to do by when, by your standards, gives you a sense of independence…and it always feels good to cross off something that you wanted done.

Second semester is a drag for everyone, and the inevitable laziness and exhaustion can make it seem even longer.  However, following these tips, and any that you already use, will help you stay on your game.  Do not let spring semester blues get you down when you are so close to the finish line.  Stay focused, stay accountable, stay motivated, and stay positive.  Just think, a few more months of necessary growth and education, and summer will be here!