Getting back on track for a productive semester

Autumn quickly becomes the busiest season of the year, so it's no surprise we start putting uni on the back burner and put nights out as a priority. As fun as those long nights downing Jägerbombs in Molly Malone’s may be, at some point the dancing shoes need to come off and the textbooks must come out – but how do we get back on track?

Being productive and prioritising your academic life does not have to mean ditching your social life for good, but taking a step back from clubs and bars – even just for a few days – will give your body the chance it needs to recover. Drinking can really take its toll on your mental wellbeing, so make sure to take time to allow your spirit (no, not the alcoholic kind) to realign. Unroll your yoga mat and take a few minutes to stretch, meditate or do a 20-minute practice — whatever feels right for you.

Once you feel more present within yourself, it’s time to make a to-do list and start managing your time more mindfully. Set yourself realistic goals and be sure to avoid planning too many study sessions. The last thing you need is to burn yourself out. Set aside a few hours in the week, separate from work and uni sessions, for extra study and make sure to allocate breaks in between. Do 20 minutes of studying and take five minutes to grab a coffee or stretch.

Phones are not recommended but if you simply cannot live without it, try doing something more useful than scrolling through social media in your break — download Duolingo and practice a language for a few minutes, or send a text to check in on your loved ones.

Sometimes, it’s so easy to fall into the trap of procrastinating and working late, but early nights are far more beneficial when you start at 9am. Be kind to yourself and take a warm shower, make yourself a cup of tea, and settle into your nighttime routine.

Make sure to set your alarm at a realistic time and if you struggle to wake up early, get your outfit and bag ready the day before so your morning routine is minimal and easy to achieve. Starting the day with your favourite breakfast and a smoothie is also a great way to set the tone and add some energy to those dark autumnal mornings.

Edited by Pia Cooper