Environment
None of this is expert advice. It's what people worked out for themselves, usually the hard way — what actually helped, and what they'd tell someone standing where you are. Take what fits and leave the rest.
If you only read a few
Organize your gear in advance so that the first step of your routine is super easy.
Having items set out and ready makes it easier to start.
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Go to a library for school work and do not return home until finished.
It forces you to get outside and provides a good feeling knowing you don't have unfinished work waiting at home.
one person who lived it
Boost productivity by working in public areas like libraries or cafes where others are also focused.
Most people perform better when surrounded by peers who are actively working.
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- Work in a separate location like a library or coffee shop to avoid comparing your productivity to others.1
- Change your work area to a different location, such as a café, park, library, or another room, if possible.1
If you struggle with productivity on down days, try wearing jeans and a nice top instead of loungewear or gym gear.
One person found this helped them be more productive.
one person who lived it
Do homework on campus computers instead of at home to increase focus and create an incentive to finish work quickly so you can go home.
Being on campus makes you focus, and being ready to go home motivates you to finish work before leaving.
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Manage your environment rather than relying on moral virtue for discipline, especially if work and rest spaces overlap.
If the office coincides with the refuge, the mind paralyzes between duty and rest.
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Work on a device or location distinct from entertainment devices to distinguish between work and playtime.
It helps distinguish when it is not playtime.
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If you cannot work from home, go to a local library or cafe to work.
Libraries are described as quiet, peaceful, and free; cafes are also suggested.
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Physically separate yourself from devices, such as leaving the phone in another room or getting an alarm clock.
Rearranging space reduces scrolling and helps you be more present.
one person who lived it
Organize your physical space to help organize your mind.
Your mind follows your physical environment.
one person who lived it
If you are naturally creative, try dimming your lights to potentially spark ideas.
One study suggests dim lighting promotes creativity.
one person who lived it
Create a warm, low-light environment with minimal illumination to add to focus and relaxation.
Darkness is relaxing and helps some people focus better.
one person who lived it
Designate specific rooms for work and relaxation to help your brain associate spaces with specific modes.
Entering the office makes my brain focused and ready for homework; separating work and rewinding increased productivity.
one person who lived it
Change your physical environment to interrupt habit cues.
Your brain associates specific locations with certain behaviors.
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Optimize your environment to succeed, such as turning off phone notifications.
Turning off notifications makes life easier.
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