Four steps to find focus at home!

With the sudden switch to school being entirely remote, it may feel impossible to achieve the same level of productivity that you did at school.  Being at home with your parents, siblings, pets, and more can feel draining. With everyone trying to work from home at the same time it makes it hard to eliminate distractions and focus on your work.  Here are some tips to help you through that!

1. Designate a workspace for yourself

Whether that is the kitchen table, a desk in your room, or even a recliner, make sure you have a space where you can be to do your work.  Setting clear boundaries for yourself can help you feel like you’re going into school. Create different spaces for yourself by having a workspace, a relaxing space, and a sleep space. Having these different spaces can help you differentiate your school life from your relaxing life. It makes a physical distinction for you and gives you a purpose to get up and move to wherever you’re supposed to be. This can also help your family if you designate that your desk is your workspace, then they know when you’re at your desk they shouldn’t bother you because you’re working on homework or classes.

2. Get rid of any distractions

Limiting distractions can help you become more productive. It is important to consider distractions when choosing your workspace. If your space is in the middle of the living room where your family will be out and about, that may make it difficult to work. If you choose a desk in front of a window, you may be tempted to gaze outside instead of listening to your Zoom lecture. The best possible space is somewhere where you can shut your door and not be bothered. Be open and communicate with family members about needing your space to learn.

3. Make a schedule for yourself

Making yourself a daily schedule can help you balance your time with your family with your schoolwork. It is easy to get caught up chatting with your family or watching a movie together, so make sure you have designated times to work on your classes. Make yourself work blocks so you know what time you should be in lecture, what time you should work on readings/homework, and what time you should relax and eat your meals. Having some structure will allow you to use your time in the most efficient way possible. Share your schedule with your family, print it out and put it on the fridge! This will help you all be transparent about when you’re busy.

4. Recruit your sisters to hold you accountable

You have an entire sorority full of people that are in the same boat as you! Support each other by scheduling time to Facetime and talk about a class you’re in together, check-in with each other to make sure you’re both finishing the homework and readings you need for the class. Schedule time to study together! Just like your library dates, do them over video chat and be in each other’s company while you go over the material! This will also eliminate you trying to scroll through social media on your phone if you’re using it to chat about classes. Overall, set yourself up for success!

Xoxo, Team TSL