Studying can often feel like a chore, especially when motivation is low. Whether you’re a student striving for good grades in massage school, a graduate reviewing for the MBLEx exam, a professional taking additional continuing education courses, or simply someone looking to learn something new, staying motivated is key to success. But let’s be honest: it’s not always easy to find that spark. We’ve all been there, staring blankly at textbooks or scrolling through an online course without actually absorbing anything. The good news is, it doesn’t have to be this way.
This blog post provides 17 practical tips that can help you boost your study motivation and achieve your goals. These are actionable steps that can make a real difference in how you approach your studies. You don’t have to apply all of them; even picking a couple that resonate with your specific needs can make a significant impact. From setting clear goals to creating a productive environment, these tips are designed to help you stay focused, energized, and on track. So, if you’re ready to transform your study habits and see real progress, keep reading.
1. Develop a Consistent Study Schedule
Setting a regular study schedule enhances your ability to retain information. When you study at consistent times each day, your brain adapts and becomes more efficient at processing and storing information. This routine helps you manage your day better, ensuring that study sessions are a fixed part of your schedule and become a habit, minimizing scheduling conflicts with other activities.
A predictable study routine also reduces stress. With a clear understanding of when you will study, you avoid the stress that comes from last-minute cramming. Efficient time management afforded by a structured schedule gives you enough time for both study and relaxation, essential for good mental health and ongoing motivation, leading to improved academic performance.
“Motivation is what gets you started. Habit is what keeps you going.”
Jim Rohn
Need to take the MBLEx exam? Try a free 50-question practice test.
2. Create a Dedicated Study Space
Creating a dedicated study space can significantly enhance your ability to focus and learn effectively. A specific area set aside for studying helps your brain associate this space with learning, which can naturally boost your concentration levels. It also allows you to keep all your study materials in one place, ready for use. This minimizes the time spent setting up each time you need to study and keeps you organized.
However, to keep your study routine fresh and avoid monotony, it’s beneficial to occasionally change your environment. Alternate between your primary study space and other locations like a library, a quiet café, or an outdoor setting if weather permits. This variety can rejuvenate your mind and increase your motivation. Keep your primary study area tidy and free of clutter, as a clean space helps maintain focus and reduces stress.
Features of an Ideal Study Space
- Ample natural light
- Minimal noise distractions
- Comfortable seating and adequate desk space
- Easy access to necessary study materials
- A clutter-free environment
- Personal touches that inspire calm and focus, such as plants or inspirational quotes
“Learning is not attained by chance, it must be sought for with ardor and attended to with diligence.”
Abigail Adams
3. Limit Distractions
Minimizing distractions is crucial for effective study sessions. Digital distractions, such as notifications from smartphones and social media alerts, can interrupt your flow and reduce your productivity. Consider using website blockers and focus apps to keep these distractions at bay during your study times. Tools like Cold Turkey Blocker, RescueTime, and Freedom can block distracting websites and apps across your devices, helping you stay centered and focused on your tasks.
Multitasking is another common pitfall that hinders efficient studying. It may feel like you’re getting more done, but switching between tasks can actually slow you down and decrease the quality of your work, due to what’s known as switching cost. Switching cost in multitasking refers to the time and cognitive effort required to shift focus from one task to another, resulting in reduced efficiency and potential performance decline. Instead of trying to multitask, commit to focusing on one subject or activity at a time. This singular focus enhances retention and understanding of the material, ensuring that your study time is productive.
To create an environment that further supports concentration, choose a study space away from high-traffic areas in the home or massage school. Consider the benefits of sound-proofing elements such as thick curtains or a door that closes, and perhaps use noise-canceling headphones to block out background noise. Keep your desk clean and organized with only the essential items needed for your study session, and adjust settings on digital devices to minimize interruptions, like setting them to Do Not Disturb mode.
“The only place where success comes before work is in the dictionary.”
Vidal Sassoon
4. Stay Organized
Staying organized is essential for effective studying. Using tools and techniques to keep your study materials and schedules well-organized can significantly improve your focus and productivity. Implementing a digital calendar or planner can help you track your study sessions, assignments, and deadlines. Apps like Google Calendar or Trello offer functionalities that allow you to set reminders and prioritize tasks, ensuring that nothing gets overlooked. Understanding the 80/20 Rule can help you when it is time to prioritize your most important tasks.
Furthermore, maintaining a physical organization system for your class notes and textbooks can streamline your study process and save time. Invest in a filing system or use binders with dividers to categorize your materials by subject or project. This way, everything you need is easily accessible and can be quickly located. Regularly decluttering your study space also contributes to a clearer mind and a more productive learning environment.
Tips on How to Stay Organized When to Studying:
- Use digital tools to schedule and prioritize tasks.
- Keep physical study materials organized by subject or project.
- Regularly clean and declutter your study space.
- Set specific times for reviewing and organizing notes.
- Utilize checklists to track completion of study goals.
“It does not matter how slowly you go as long as you do not stop.”
Confucius
5. Break Down Your Study Sessions
Utilizing the Pomodoro Technique can significantly boost your productivity by dividing your study time into focused intervals. This approach involves studying intensely for 25 minutes followed by a 5-minute break. These short, intense study periods help maintain high levels of attention while the frequent breaks prevent fatigue and keep your mind fresh.
Another effective strategy is ‘chunking‘, which involves grouping related information together to enhance recall. Organizing study material into smaller, manageable segments makes the learning process more systematic and less overwhelming. This method simplifies complex topics into digestible pieces, making it easier to remember and understand the material.
To further optimize your study sessions, try alternating between different subjects or topics. This variation can prevent boredom and enhance learning by reducing mental fatigue associated with focusing on one subject for too long. Additionally, alternating subjects can help create connections between different areas of study, potentially deepening your understanding and retention of the material.
“Success is the sum of small efforts, repeated day in and day out.”
Robert Collier
6. Set Clear, Achievable Goals
Setting clear, achievable goals using the SMART criteria — Specific, Measurable, Achievable, Relevant, and Time-bound — is a powerful way to keep yourself focused and driven. These goals provide a roadmap for your study sessions and ensure that every effort is directed towards tangible outcomes. For example, instead of a vague goal like “study more,” a SMART goal would be “complete three massage therapy case studies by Friday.” This clarity helps prevent procrastination and keeps you motivated. Here is another example of a SMART goal related to passing the MBLEx:
Specific: Pass the MBLEx.
Measurable: Achieve a PASS on all 7 content areas of the exam.
Achievable: Study daily using a structured MBLEx review plan.
Relevant: Essential for obtaining massage therapy licensure.
Time-bound: Pass by December 1st, 2024.
It’s also vital to understand the reasons behind your goals. Knowing why you need to study or why you must pass an exam can significantly bolster your motivation. This might be to advance your career, gain certification, or fulfill a personal ambition to excel in the field of massage therapy. Keeping your ultimate ‘WHY‘ in mind serves as a constant reminder of your purpose, which can inspire and propel you forward even on tough days.
“What you get by achieving your goals is not as important as what you become by achieving your goals.”
Zig Ziglar
It helps to understand your intrinsic and extrinsic motivations. Intrinsic motivation arises from an individual’s own desire for self-satisfaction or a deep interest in the activity at hand, for example, a student studying because they find the material genuinely interesting. On the other hand, extrinsic motivation is fueled by external factors such as rewards or the avoidance of negative outcomes, like studying to achieve high marks or to prevent failing a course. While each type influences learning, intrinsic motivation typically ensures more consistent and engaged effort.
In addition to setting goals, maintaining visible words of encouragement can have a profound effect on your motivation. Placing motivational quotes around your study area or home can serve as daily affirmations of your objectives and potential. Coupling this with a well-structured study plan that outlines daily and weekly targets can transform your educational journey, making it more structured and less overwhelming.
“Setting goals is the first step in turning the invisible into the visible.”
Tony Robbins
7. Reward Yourself
Setting up a reward system to celebrate small victories can greatly boost your motivation and make the study process more rewarding. By assigning specific treats for achieving small milestones, you encourage positive habits and make your journey towards larger academic goals more enjoyable. For instance, after mastering a tough chapter or scoring well on a MBLEx practice test, you could indulge in a movie night or enjoy your favorite meal. This approach leverages both intrinsic and extrinsic rewards, which fuels your motivation from within and offers tangible incentives.
Intrinsic rewards derive from the internal satisfaction you feel when you conquer a difficult topic. Extrinsic rewards, however, involve external perks, such as treating yourself to a small gift or a night out. Using a mix of these rewards can help keep your study enthusiasm high. For intrinsic motivation, focus on the personal satisfaction and professional advancement each study session provides. For extrinsic motivation, consider setting up small, fun rewards that you look forward to as you approach your next study goal.
Examples of Rewards for Meeting Study Goals:
- Enjoy a complete day off to unwind after a full week of focused studying.
- Buy yourself a little something special you’ve had your eye on.
- Organize a fun outing with friends to celebrate passing a major test.
- Treat yourself to an extra hour of sleep or a lazy morning.
- Watch a newly released movie or an episode of a beloved series after hitting a study milestone.
“Success is no accident. It is hard work, perseverance, learning, studying, sacrifice and most of all, love of what you are doing or learning to do.”
Pelé
8. Start With Something Easy
Sometimes the hardest part is just getting started. To overcome this initial hurdle, it’s helpful to have a strategy for initiating your study sessions that quickly engages your interest and momentum. For example, if you’re dreading a long study session on a topic that you find boring, begin with an activity you enjoy or find easy, such as going through a set of 20 MBLEx flashcards or taking a brief practice quiz. This approach can spark your interest and ease you into the more challenging material. Additionally, the act of taking practice tests and quizzes leveraged the principle of test-enhanced learning.
Starting with simpler or more enjoyable tasks acts like a warm-up for your brain, similar to how a light jog sets the stage for a more intense workout. Once you start, you’ll likely find it easier to keep going and tackle the tougher aspects of your studies. This method not only reduces the reluctance to start studying but also boosts your confidence as you rack up small wins right from the beginning.
“The expert in anything was once a beginner.”
Helen Hayes
9. Use Active Learning Techniques
Active learning techniques engage more directly with the material, helping you understand and retain information more effectively than passive reading or listening. Techniques such as using flashcards, summarizing what you’ve learned, and teaching the material to someone else are proven methods that reinforce learning. Flashcards help with active recall and mastery of key concepts, while summarizing forces you to process the information in your own words, enhancing understanding. Teaching others is perhaps the most effective, as it requires you to fully grasp and communicate the subject matter clearly.
Considering your personal learning style can further optimize your study sessions. If you are a visual learner, tools like concept maps or mind maps can be incredibly effective. These tools allow you to visualize relationships between concepts, making complex information easier to digest. Kinesthetic learners, who learn best through experience and movement, may benefit from creating physical models or engaging in role-playing exercises to simulate real-life scenarios. Tailoring your study methods to align with how you learn best not only makes studying more enjoyable but also more productive.
“I am always ready to learn although I do not always like being taught.”
Winston Churchill
10. Utilize Strategic Procrastination
Strategic procrastination can be a useful tool when harnessed correctly. By deliberately choosing to delay less appealing (and less important) tasks, you can make studying the more attractive option. For instance, if you have to choose between studying and cleaning your house, the desire to avoid cleaning can push you to focus on your studies. This reverse psychology leverages the pain/pleasure principle, where avoiding a disliked activity (pain) motivates you to engage in another, more preferable task (pleasure).
To make this technique work, list out tasks you find less desirable than studying, such as organizing files or doing taxes. Schedule these tasks during your usual study times. The natural inclination to avoid these tasks can redirect your focus towards studying, making it seem like a more enjoyable alternative. This approach not only helps manage procrastination but also increases the time you spend studying without feeling forced or overwhelmed by the process.
“There are no shortcuts to any place worth going.”
Beverly Sills
11. Stay Physically Active
Regular physical activities like yoga, walking, or weightlifting can significantly boost your cognitive abilities and sharpen your focus. These exercises enhance blood circulation to the brain, vital for improving memory and concentration. More so, keeping up with a routine of physical exercises helps in balancing your mood and maintaining high energy levels, both of which are essential for productive study sessions. Even short bursts of physical activity can refresh your mind and reduce stress, making it easier to tackle academic challenges with a clearer head. Exercising outside to get sunlight and vitamin D can further boost energy, improving both your mood and stamina.
Adding music to your exercise regimen can further enhance the benefits of physical activity. Music has the power to uplift your spirits and can make physical exertion feel less taxing, allowing you to enjoy and extend your workout sessions. Choose songs that motivate or soothe you based on what you need to achieve from your workout at that moment. This blend of rhythmic exercise and music effectively sustains your mental agility and concentration, which are crucial for successful studying.
“A dream doesn’t become reality through magic; it takes sweat, determination, and hard work.”
Colin Powell
12. Practice Mindfulness and Meditation
Incorporating mindfulness and meditation into your daily self-care routine can significantly help in managing stress and sharpening your mental focus. By engaging in mindfulness, you learn to stay present and attentive to your current activities, acknowledging thoughts and emotions without judgment. This practice helps lessen stress and anxiety, creating a clearer state of mind that’s more conducive to studying. Meditation complements this by involving techniques like focused breathing or guided sessions that enhance your ability to relax and concentrate.
Additionally, using visualization techniques can boost these benefits. Take a few moments each day to vividly imagine achieving your academic goals and enjoying the outcomes of your efforts. This act of visualizing success not only boosts your daily motivation but also strengthens your focus and determination. Regularly practicing these methods fosters a resilient and positive mindset, equipping you better to tackle your educational challenges.
“Act as if what you do makes a difference. It does.”
William James
13. Join a Study Group
Participating in a study group brings a wealth of advantages, particularly through collaborative learning and mutual support. Engaging with peers in a study group allows you to pool different viewpoints and solve problems together, which can enhance everyone’s grasp of the material. As members take turns explaining topics, each person not only reinforces their own understanding but also aids others in learning. This process often results in better grades and deeper comprehension for the entire group, as the act of discussing and dissecting topics helps solidify knowledge and identify areas that need more attention.
Moreover, study groups naturally foster a sense of accountability among their members. The expectation to meet regularly and contribute meaningfully can spur you to be more disciplined and thorough in your preparation. This collective responsibility can boost motivation, as your efforts contribute not just to your success, but to the group’s success as well. Scheduled gatherings of your study group can provide regularity in your study habits and make the challenge of preparing for exams feel more shared and less overwhelming.
“An investment in knowledge pays the best interest.”
Benjamin Franklin
14. Integrate Real-World Practice
Incorporating real-world application into your study regimen not only deepens your understanding of massage therapy techniques but also serves as a powerful motivator. By applying what you’ve studied in actual treatment settings, you bridge the gap between theoretical knowledge and hands-on practice. This approach reinforces your learning and sparks a deeper interest in your field, making your study sessions more engaging and relevant. Activities such as volunteering at local health fairs or participating in clinic internships allow you to practice techniques on actual clients, offering practical insights that enhance your educational experience. Analyzing massage case studies also enriches this learning, as they provide critical insights into real-world applications and client interactions.
Additionally, engaging in real-world experiences bolsters your motivation by developing critical thinking and adaptability—essential skills for any successful massage therapist. Each client presents unique needs and challenges, pushing you to apply your knowledge creatively. This dynamic environment not only sharpens your professional skills but also boosts your confidence and enthusiasm for your studies. Regular exposure to practical scenarios ensures that your learning feels meaningful and directly connected to your future career in massage therapy.
“Develop a passion for learning. If you do, you will never cease to grow.”
Anthony J. D’Angelo
15. Use Technology Wisely
Embracing technology can drastically improve your study habits and time management skills. Productivity apps and online platforms are invaluable for organizing your schedule, managing reminders, and keeping track of important deadlines. For example, Trello can help you manage tasks efficiently, while Evernote allows you to consolidate all your notes and study materials in one accessible place. Additionally, using calendar apps helps you allocate time wisely across different subjects and personal commitments, ensuring a balanced approach to your studies.
Moreover, platforms specifically designed for educational purposes can greatly enhance your learning experience. Tools like Quizlet, which lets you create digital flashcards, and Khan Academy, which provides tutorials on a range of topics, offer interactive ways to engage with your coursework. These tools not only reinforce your understanding through active participation but also enable quick and easy access to study materials. By integrating these technological solutions into your study routine, you create a more efficient and engaging learning environment.
A 2016 study explored how learning strategies, study habits, and social networking activities impact the academic performance of undergraduate and graduate-entry medical students at University College Cork in Ireland. Through a cross-sectional survey, it was found that effective time management and organized study methods correlated positively with higher academic scores, while reliance on last-minute cramming and excessive use of online social networks were linked to poorer performance. The study suggests promoting effort management and structured study practices while discouraging surface learning approaches to enhance academic success in medical education.
“The only limit to our realization of tomorrow is our doubts of today.”
Franklin D. Roosevelt
16. Stay Hydrated and Eat Healthy
Keeping well-hydrated and eating nutritious foods are crucial for keeping your brain sharp and your energy up. Ensuring you drink plenty of water throughout the day helps maintain your focus and avoid the mental fog that comes with dehydration. Eating a balanced diet that includes plenty of fruits, vegetables, proteins, and whole grains provides the essential nutrients your brain needs to function at its best. These healthy habits are key not only to your physical health but also to sustaining mental alertness and improving your ability to concentrate during study sessions.
Helpful Tips:
- Always have a water bottle on hand to remind you to stay hydrated.
- Eat foods known to enhance brain function, such as blueberries, nuts, fatty fish, and avocados.
- Prepare your meals in advance to ensure you have healthy options on hand during busy study days.
- Opt for snacks like fresh fruit or nuts over processed options.
- Avoid eating a lot of carbs & sugars before studying (they will make you sleepy)
- Never skip breakfast, as it helps set the tone for a focused and productive day.
“Start where you are. Use what you have. Do what you can.”
Arthur Ashe
17. Regularly Review and Adjust Your Strategies
Continually evaluating and tweaking your study habits is crucial for not just enhancing your learning efficiency but also maintaining your study motivation. This involves regularly assessing how effective your current study methods are and adjusting them to better suit your learning style and schedule. Being adaptable encourages you to discover and stick with the most effective strategies, while adjusting or discarding the less effective ones. For instance, if you realize that morning study sessions are more productive than afternoon ones, reshaping your schedule can keep your motivation high. Keeping your approach to studying flexible and responsive ensures that your learning process is not only productive but also continuously engaging.
“The roots of education are bitter, but the fruit is sweet.”
Aristotle
Summary and Key Takeaways
Maintaining motivation while studying is vital for achieving academic success and personal growth. This article has explored various strategies to help you stay engaged and effective in your studies whether you’re still in school or preparing for the MBLEx exam. It’s important to remember that everyone’s needs are different, and what works for one person might not work for another. Experiment with these techniques to find those that resonate with you and integrate them into your study habits to see which ones enhance your learning and motivation the most.
Key Takeaways:
- Set clear, achievable goals to keep your studies targeted and meaningful.
- Maintain a regular study schedule to enhance focus and productivity.
- Use technology wisely to organize and optimize your study time.
- Stay physically active and eat healthily to boost brain function and energy levels.
- Regularly reassess your study methods and adapt them to fit your evolving needs.
- Join study groups for enhanced learning through collaboration and accountability.
- Engage with practical experiences to apply learning in real-world contexts.
FAQ
What are effective time management strategies for massage therapy students?
Effective time management strategies for massage therapy students include setting clear goals, creating a detailed schedule, and prioritizing tasks. Start by listing all your responsibilities, from classes and study sessions to clinical practice and personal time. Use tools like planners or digital calendars to organize these tasks, breaking down larger projects into smaller, manageable steps. Prioritize your tasks based on deadlines and importance, focusing on high-priority assignments first. Additionally, avoid multitasking and instead, dedicate specific time blocks to different activities to maintain focus and efficiency. Regularly review and adjust your schedule as needed to stay on track and manage stress.
What are the best stress-relief techniques for people preparing for a board exam?
If you’re gearing up for a board exam, incorporating deep breathing exercises and mindfulness meditation into your daily self-care routine can help keep stress at bay and enhance your concentration. Engaging in regular exercise, like yoga or jogging, is also beneficial for lowering stress and keeping your mind clear. Furthermore, making time for leisure activities or catching up with friends can provide a healthy balance to your study schedule, ensuring you don’t get overwhelmed by the preparation.
How often should students take breaks to optimize study effectiveness?
In general, it’s recommended that students schedule breaks every 50 to 90 minutes during study sessions. This interval aligns with the brain’s natural attention span and allows for mental recovery, helping to maintain optimal concentration and information retention. Taking 5 to 10-minute breaks to engage in activities like stretching or brief walks helps refresh the mind and prevents fatigue. This routine not only keeps you physically active but also ensures that your study time is more productive.
How can I avoid having to cram for an exam?
To avoid cramming for an exam, start your preparation early by breaking down the material into manageable sections and scheduling regular review sessions. Utilize tools like planners or digital calendars to create a study timeline that covers all topics well before the exam date. Additionally, engage in active learning techniques such as teaching concepts to others or creating mind maps, which can help reinforce your understanding and memory retention over time.
What are motivational challenges unique to adult learners in massage therapy programs?
Adult learners in massage therapy programs typically encounter distinct motivational hurdles, like juggling their studies with family duties and work obligations. Managing their time effectively is essential, as they often have to align their educational activities with their responsibilities at home or work. Moreover, reacclimating to an academic environment after years away can pose challenges, especially with adapting to new educational tools and technologies.
What is the difference between intrinsic motivation and extrinsic motivation?
Intrinsic motivation comes from within, driven by personal satisfaction and interest in the task itself, such as studying because you enjoy learning new things. Extrinsic motivation is influenced by external rewards or pressures, like studying to earn a high grade or to avoid consequences from failing. Both types play roles in academic success, but intrinsic motivation often leads to deeper engagement and longer-lasting drive.