“Can you help me learn how to be more productive with my study time?”

Our Elder Says: There are many good methods to improve your ability to focus and do better in school. You can learn these on the internet, or get advice from a school counselor. 

 

Dear EWC,

I’m a person who wants to be productive all the time, I have designed a study plan, but I  sometimes cannot finish what I’ve set as a daily goal. My friends seem to work the same as me, but they get higher grades. How can I improve at memorizing information quickly and increase my general productivity? I would be so happy if you could help me sort out these problems.

 

Kwasi Response

Dear Uijin,

Thanks for writing. It is fantastic that you are being proactive and seeking advice. I hope that I can provide you with some helpful ideas.

For better advice, please tell me what you are studying (science, mathematics, history, etc.) and where (high school, university).

Most educational facilities have counselors to help with such issues. Have you tried that?

Generally, I like to think of changes in human performance in terms of the “Three M’s”: Mindset, Motivation, and Methods. 

Mindset: Do we truly believe that change is possible? If you don’t think you can change, you will be correct. You must feel that change and growth are possible. Having a “growth mindset” is essential.

Motivation: Why do you want to pursue your studies? What are the ultimate benefits for you? Those benefits should be of things that matter to you—not the expectations of others. Upon reflection, we sometimes realize we want to change our goal or timeline. 

Methods: What effective methods are you using to accomplish what you seek? (Like Pomodoro, effective note taking and review, taking care of one’s physical health, etc.). Of course, meditation and mindful breathing exercises can help with focusing, etc. 

Your school probably has advisers or instructors on learning techniques. Perhaps another MBA student can mentor or assist you with studying? A conscientious commitment to studying with another student may prod you to focus and learn.

It is wonderful that you appear to be disciplined and plan your work. With a bit of coaching, it can become more “fine-tuned.”

As to methodology, there are many resources on the web. I find the suggestions that Jim Kwik makes to be very helpful. He has some free content on the web through YouTube. https://www.youtube.com/results?search_query=Jim+Kwik

A university in the USA (University of North Carolina), has this short guide with some ideas: https://learningcenter.unc.edu/tips-and-tools/studying-101-study-smarter-not-harder/

Uijin, I very much admire your diligence and that you care about your education. I am confident that those traits will allow you to succeed. Hang in there. Feel free to write back if you believe it would be helpful.

Alternatively, you may ask for another Elder. Another Elder may have different ideas that may resonate more with you.

In any event, please take care and be well.

Best Regards,

Kwasi

Article #: 502447
Category: Self-Improvement