Alice Boyes Ph.D.

How to Get Things Done When You Have No Motivation

No motivation need to be productive try these solutions..

Posted March 22, 2021 | Reviewed by Lybi Ma

  • What Is Motivation?
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  • A lack of motivation can have many sources, from fatigue to anxiety to feelings of overwhelm. Identifying the root cause is key to overcoming it.
  • Low motivation makes it harder to dive into unpleasant tasks. Start with quick, easy, or satisfying tasks, even if they're not high-priority.
  • Once you've warmed up, tackle the work that needs to get done, making sure to take regular breaks and reward yourself for each achievement.

No motivation ? You're not alone, especially now. The five steps below can help you overcome the roadblock.

1. Accurately diagnose your feelings.

Many other emotions masquerade as low motivation. If you accurately diagnose your emotions, the path forward will be much clearer.

Your underlying feeling might be:

  • Overwhelmed
  • Social comparison

If you're overwhelmed, shrink your goal for today until you don't feel overwhelmed. If you are expecting yourself to work for longer than 90-minute blocks, or to get more than three-four hours of highly productive (intensely focused) work done per day, you're potentially psyching yourself out by having unrealistic expectations.

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If you're suffering from social comparison, talk to yourself compassionately (explained here ). Are you expecting yourself to perform as well as someone who has practiced more than you have?

If you're feeling fatigued, make sure the problem isn't that you've been resting too much. When people feel low, they sometimes rest a lot and then feel less energetic because of this. (This is easy to do. It actually happened to me over the weekend. There is no shame in it.)

These suggestions don't cover all scenarios, but when you accurately diagnose what you're feeling, you'll likely see a solution.

2. Don't "eat the frog."

The idea of eating the frog refers to doing the task you're least motivated to do first. This can be a great strategy, but if you're feeling low, trying to do your hardest task first can lead to you not getting out of bed.

Ask yourself, "What's the most productive task that is within my capacity right now?" For example, if you'd like to go for a run but you can't get yourself to do that, then going for a walk is better than staying in bed.

No productivity strategy is right for all circumstances. Varying your strategies can be beneficial rather than expecting yourself to always stick to the same robotic system for prioritizing.

3. Do a few minutes of quick but satisfying tasks.

Sometimes you need to warm up into action . To do this, try quick, satisfying tasks, like ordering the vitamins you've run out of, picking up dirty clothes, or changing your sheets.

If you do these tasks too long, they can distract you from more substantial work you need to get done. Five to ten minutes of these types of tasks is great, but don't do in excess of 30 minutes when you have more important things to do. When we overdo busy work, we risk being too tired to start more important work.

4. Plan your reward.

Plan to work on a high-priority task for 90 minutes, then take a break. How do you want to spend your break? Would you like to take a walk or lie out in the sun? Would you like to check a Reddit sub or Slack channel you visit daily? Would you like to message a friend? Would you like to browse swimsuits for a vacation you have coming up? Would you like to do a few minutes of yoga?

Planning and choosing take tremendous mental energy. If you wait to choose what you will do for your break until you're already exhausted from a period of focused work, you may not make a very satisfying choice. Plan your fun from the outset, when you have the cognitive energy to do that. When you choose in advance, you're likely to make a more rewarding choice.

5. Fuel yourself.

Understand how fuel influences your personal concentration , focus, and motivation. Currently, I like drinking electrolyte water in the mornings. Test out what works for you. For example, try eating a high-protein yogurt and see if that gives you the little boost you need. Physical boosts may have meaningful but small effects. For example, they might increase your energy by 10 percent. Small improvements like these can be hard to notice if you're not paying close attention, Consider structured self-experimentation like trying a strategy every day for a week, then no days for a week, and comparing.

why can't i get motivated to do my homework

Low and no motivation can be a sign of a serious problem like depression or anxiety . For example, for people who are chronically anxious, everything they need to do can feel scary and hard because they're constantly thinking of what could go wrong or ways they're inadequate.

For more serious problems like clinical depression or anxiety, you'll need more than just "tips," but tips like these can be part of the solution. (For more practical ideas along these lines, try this post , which includes a story about how I dealt with low motivation after a major disappointment .)

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Alice Boyes Ph.D.

Alice Boyes, Ph.D., translates principles from Cognitive Behavioral Therapy and social psychology into tips people can use in their everyday lives.

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What to Do When You Have No Motivation

Amy Morin, LCSW, is a psychotherapist and international bestselling author. Her books, including "13 Things Mentally Strong People Don't Do," have been translated into more than 40 languages. Her TEDx talk,  "The Secret of Becoming Mentally Strong," is one of the most viewed talks of all time.

why can't i get motivated to do my homework

Verywell / Laura Porter

Whether you can’t get motivated to clean your house or you just aren’t feeling motivated to lose weight, a lack of motivation can be the biggest obstacle to reaching your goals.

When you have no motivation to complete a task (or even start one), consider the possible reasons why you’re struggling. Then, develop a plan to help motivate yourself to get going.

Keep in mind that not every strategy works for everyone—or in every situation. Perform some behavioral experiments to see which strategies best help you reach your goals.

Get Advice From The Verywell Mind Podcast

Hosted by therapist Amy Morin, LCSW, this episode of The Verywell Mind Podcast shares strategies to motivate yourself to get healthy, featuring fitness trainer Jillian Michaels.

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Act as If You Feel Motivated

You may be able to trick yourself into feeling motivated by changing your behavior. Act as if you felt motivated, and your actions may change your emotions.

For example, rather than sit on the couch in your pajamas all day waiting for motivation to strike, get dressed and get moving. You might find that taking action will increase your motivation, which makes it easier to keep going. 

So ask yourself, “What would I be doing right now if I felt motivated?” Consider what you’d be wearing, how you’d be thinking, and what actions you’d be taking. Then, do these things, and see if your motivation level increases.

Everything You Need to Know About Motivation

Argue the opposite.

When you’re struggling with motivation, you’ll likely come up with a long list of reasons why you shouldn’t take any action. You might think, “It’ll be too hard,” or, “I’ll never get it done anyway.” These types of thoughts will keep you stuck.

Try arguing the opposite. When you think you’re going to fail, argue all the reasons why you might succeed. Or when you think you can’t finish a job, list all the evidence that shows you’ll be able to complete the task.

Arguing the opposite can help you see both ends of the spectrum. It can also remind you that an overly pessimistic outcome isn’t completely accurate.

There’s a chance that things might work out better than you expect. And you might find that developing a more balanced outlook will help you feel more motivated to try.

Practice Self-Compassion

You might think being hard on yourself is the key to getting motivated. But harsh self-criticism doesn’t work.

Research shows that self-compassion is actually much more motivating, especially when you are struggling with adversity.

A 2011 study conducted by researchers at the University of California found that self-compassion increases the motivation to recover from failure. After failing a test, students spent more time studying when they spoke to themselves kindly. Additionally, they reported greater motivation to change their weaknesses when they practiced self-acceptance (a key component of self-compassion).

Self-compassion may also improve mental health (which can increase motivation). A 2012 study published in Clinical Psychology Review discovered that self-compassion decreases psychological distress, reduces the symptoms of anxiety and depression, and reduces the harmful effects of stress.

So rather than beat yourself up for mistakes or call yourself names, create a kinder inner dialogue. This doesn’t mean you need to repeat exaggeratedly positive affirmations like, “I’m the best person in the world,” however.

Instead, healthy self-compassion balances self-acceptance with self-improvement. Acknowledge your flaws, mistakes, and failures with honesty. But don’t indulge in a pity party.

Speak to yourself like a trusted friend. Ask yourself, “What would I say to a friend who had this problem?” You’d likely be much kinder to someone else than you are toward yourself. So start treating yourself like a good friend.

Additionally, coach yourself in a helpful manner. Practice using self-talk that encourages you and helps you recover from setbacks.

Use the 10-Minute Rule

When you dread doing something—like walking on the treadmill for three miles—you’ll lack motivation to do it. You can reduce your feelings of dread, however, by proving to yourself that the task isn’t as bad as you think or that you have the strength to tolerate it better than you envision.

The 10-minute rule can help you get started. Give yourself permission to quit a task after 10 minutes. When you reach the 10-minute mark, ask yourself if you want to keep going or quit. You’ll likely find that you have enough motivation to keep going.

So whether you lack motivation to start working on a boring report, or you can’t seem to get yourself off the couch to start a to-do list, use the 10-minute rule to motivate yourself to take action.

Getting started on a task is usually the hardest part. Once you get going, however, it’s much easier to keep going.

Go For a Walk in Nature

Fresh air, a change of scenery, and a little exercise can do wonders for your motivation. Walking in nature—as opposed to a busy urban street—can be especially beneficial.

A 2013 study published in the British Journal of Sports Medicine found that walking half a mile through a park reduces brain fatigue.   Being in nature offers a calming effect that rejuvenates the brain—which can help motivate you to tackle a tough task.

So rather than walk down a crowded street, go to the park or a botanical garden instead. Being surrounded by nature can provide the mental escape you need to return to your project feeling more motivated than before.

Pair a Dreaded Task With Something You Enjoy

Your emotions play a major role in your motivation level. If you’re sad, bored, lonely, or anxious, your desire to tackle a tough challenge or complete a tedious task will suffer.

Boost your mood by adding a little fun to something you’re not motivated to do. You’ll feel happier and you might even look forward to doing the task when it’s regularly paired with something fun.

Here are some examples:

  • Listen to music while you run.
  • Call a friend, and talk while you’re cleaning the house.
  • Light a scented candle while you’re working on your computer.
  • Rent a luxury vehicle when you travel for business.
  • Invite a friend to run errands with you.
  • Turn on your favorite show while you’re folding laundry.

Just make sure that your fun doesn’t impair your performance. For example, watching TV while writing a paper might distract you and slow you down even more. Or talking to a friend while you’re cleaning the house might be so distracting that you can’t pay attention to what you’re doing.

Manage Your To-Do List

It’s tough to feel motivated when your to-do list is overwhelming . If you feel like there’s no hope in getting everything done, you might not try to do anything.

Keep in mind that most people underestimate how long something will take them. And when they don’t get it done on time, they might view themselves as lazy or inefficient. This can backfire by causing them to lose motivation—which makes it even harder to get more things done.

Take a look at your to-do list, and determine if it’s too long. If so, get rid of tasks that aren’t essential .

See if other tasks can be moved to a different day. Prioritize the most important things on the list, and move those to the top.

You might find a slight change in your to-do list—or the way you view your to-do list—will help you to see your tasks as more manageable. As a result, you might feel more motivated to get to work.

Mental Health in the Workplace Webinar

On May 19, 2022, Verywell Mind hosted a virtual Mental Health in the Workplace webinar, hosted by Editor-in-Chief Amy Morin, LCSW. If you missed it, check out  this recap  to learn ways to foster supportive work environments and helpful strategies to improve your well-being on the job.

Practice Self-Care

You’ll struggle with motivation as long as you aren’t caring for yourself. Sleep-deprivation, a poor diet, and lack of leisure time are just a few things that can make trudging through the day more difficult than ever.

Create a healthy self-care plan that allows you to take care of your mind and body:

  • Exercise regularly.
  • Get plenty of sleep.
  • Drink water, and eat a healthy diet.
  • Make time for leisure and fun.
  • Use healthy coping skills to deal with stress.
  • Avoid unhealthy habits, like binge eating and drinking too much alcohol.

Reward Yourself for Working

Create a small reward for yourself that you can earn for your hard work. You might find focusing on the reward helps you stay motivated to reach your goals.

For example, if you have a long paper to write for class, you might tackle it in several different ways:

  • Write 500 words, and then take a 10-minute break.
  • Eat one piece of chocolate after 30 minutes of work.
  • Write one page a day, and then remind yourself that when you’re done, you’ll have free time to do whatever you want.
  • Work for 20 minutes, and then spend 5 minutes checking social media.
  • When you complete the paper, allow yourself to go out with friends.

Consider whether you are likely to be more motivated by smaller, more frequent rewards or a bigger reward for a complete job. You may want to experiment with a few different strategies until you discover an approach that works best for you.

Make sure your rewards don’t sabotage your efforts, however. Rewarding your hard work at the gym with a sugary treat might be counterproductive. And counterproductive bad habits will decrease your motivation in the long term.

Seek Professional Help

If your motivation remains low for two or more weeks, seek professional help. You may also want to seek help if your lack of motivation is affecting your daily functioning. For example, if you aren’t able to go to work, your performance at work is suffering, or if you can’t get motivated to leave the house, this could be a sign of something more serious.

Schedule an appointment with your physician. Your doctor may want to rule out physical health conditions that may be affecting your energy or mood.

Your doctor may also refer you to a mental health professional to determine if your lack of motivation might be related to a mental illness, like depression. If so, treatment may include therapy, medication, or a combination of both. You may also want to consider an online therapy program to address any underlying issues and tackle your lack of motivation.

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We've tried, tested, and written unbiased reviews of the best online therapy programs including Talkspace, Betterhelp, and Regain. Find out which option is the best for you.

Causes of Having No Motivation

Sometimes, no motivation can be the problem. At other times, it’s merely the symptom of a bigger problem.

For example, if you’re a perfectionist , your lack of motivation may stem from the fear that you won’t complete a task flawlessly. Until you address this need to be perfect, your motivation isn’t likely to increase.

At other times, your lack of motivation may cause you to procrastinate . And the more you procrastinate, the less motivated you feel. In this case, improving your motivation to get work done can help you feel better and perform better.

So it’s important to take a few minutes to consider why you might have trouble motivating yourself. Here are some common reasons for a lack of motivation:

  • Avoidance of discomfort. Whether you don’t want to feel bored when doing a mundane task, or you are trying to avoid feelings of frustration by dodging a tough challenge, sometimes a lack of motivation stems from a desire to avoid uncomfortable feelings .
  • Self-doubt. When you think you can’t do something—or are convinced you can’t tolerate the distress associated with a certain task—you’ll likely struggle to get started.
  • Being over-extended. When you have a lot going on in life, you’ll likely feel overwhelmed. And this feeling can zap your motivation.
  • Lack of commitment to a goal. Agreeing to a task simply because you felt obligated, or declaring a resolution out of peer pressure, may mean your heart really isn’t in it. And you likely won’t take action when you aren’t committed to your goal.
  • Mental health issues. A lack of motivation is a common symptom of depression . It can also be linked to other mental illnesses , like anxiety . So it’s important to consider whether your mental health may be affecting your motivation level.

These are just a few common reasons why people sometimes lack motivation. You might find that your lack of motivation stems from other issues, like the fear of what people think or a desire to please everyone. So carefully consider the underlying thoughts and feelings that are affecting your drive.

A Word From Verywell

Everyone struggles with motivation issues at one time or another. The way you respond to your lack of motivation is what matters, however. Be kind to yourself, experiment with strategies that increase your motivation, and ask for help if you need it.

Breines JG, Chen S. Self-compassion increases self-improvement motivation .  Personality and Social Psychology Bulletin . 2012;38(9):1133-1143. doi:10.1177/0146167212445599

Macbeth A, Gumley A. Exploring compassion: A meta-analysis of the association between self-compassion and psychopathology .  Clinical Psychology Review . 2012;32(6):545-552. doi:10.1016/j.cpr.2012.06.003

Aspinall P, Mavros P, Coyne R, Roe J. The urban brain: Analysing outdoor physical activity with mobile EEG .  British Journal of Sports Medicine . 2013;49(4):272-276. doi:10.1136/bjsports-2012-091877

By Amy Morin, LCSW Amy Morin, LCSW, is a psychotherapist and international bestselling author. Her books, including "13 Things Mentally Strong People Don't Do," have been translated into more than 40 languages. Her TEDx talk,  "The Secret of Becoming Mentally Strong," is one of the most viewed talks of all time.

6 ways to build motivation to do your schoolwork now that you’re forced to learn online at home

why can't i get motivated to do my homework

Assistant Professor of University Studies, Middle Tennessee State University

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Ryan Korstange does not work for, consult, own shares in or receive funding from any company or organisation that would benefit from this article, and has disclosed no relevant affiliations beyond their academic appointment.

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why can't i get motivated to do my homework

Even in normal circumstances, it can be hard to get motivated to do your schoolwork . But these are not normal circumstances.

The switch to remote instruction caused by COVID-19 has been unsettling. Patterns have changed. Habits have been disrupted . Remote classes are simply different from classes that involve face-to-face instruction.

As a researcher who looks at what it takes to get through college , I have a few tips that could maximize your motivation and productivity when you’re at home going to school online.

1. Guard your time

You do not need large amounts of time to be productive. Instead, be intentional and focused in short blocks where you can work without interruption. Protect these open times by setting up your workspace to minimize distraction – including silencing notifications on your cellphone or laptop. Communicate your boundaries to friends and family and make sure to identify times when work and socialization can happen.

2. Determine how much work is needed

Write down the work you need to accomplish, because there is a limit to how much information you can recall and process at one time. Examine the remaining projects, including research and written assignments, and estimate the amount and type of effort that each requires. Identify any tests and quizzes that are scheduled and determine what preparation is necessary.

3. Break large projects into smaller ones

Breaking big projects into smaller and more manageable tasks allows you to achieve maximum efficiency and effectiveness .

Your assigned tasks should follow a logical sequence. Some tasks are basic, like locating articles in the online library for a research paper. Others, like proofreading, are best left to do later in the process. Work steadily, and record your progress as you do, because you get more done when you can actually see the progress you’re making.

4. Set goals

When you set specific and difficult goals for your work and make them public in some way , it can boost your performance and enhance your motivation .

why can't i get motivated to do my homework

Setting generic, vague or easy goals is less helpful. Set goals related to effort. For example, plan to spend three hours one day studying for a certain class. Also, set goals related to the completion of specific tasks or products. For instance, give yourself a deadline to read and take notes on a specific article for a certain paper you must write.

Further, make time in your plan to deal with any interruptions and challenges that may occur. For example, when my 7-year-old gets bored or needs some attention and interrupts me in my work, I plan to spend 20-30 minutes doing something with her. We take a walk or a bike ride, or create some art. Then I can return to work. I even set a timer to keep myself honest.

5. Identify the rewards

It pays to clarify the rewards at stake this semester – whether those rewards are internal, such as the feeling of accomplishment that comes from understanding a difficult concept well, or external, such as getting a good grade.

Many universities are adopting pass/fail grading systems in the short term, so the external reward course grades provide will likely be different. Learning is what matters now. Focus on the course learning outcomes and make sure that you’re meeting them, because these skills will be the ones required of you as you progress toward your degree.

6. Be flexible and go easy on yourself

This is an unprecedented crisis, and we are all scrambling to make it work. You didn’t expect to spend these months at home, learning online. Some days won’t go as planed - and that’s alright. Forgive yourself when you don’t do your best, then move forward and overcome the setbacks .

When the pandemic passes

Eventually, this pandemic will be over. Face-to-face classes will start again, and this semester will be but a memory. The good habits you build and the strategies follow now to manage to learn and work independently will bear dividends in the future.

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Everyone struggles with homework sometimes, but if getting your homework done has become a chronic issue for you, then you may need a little extra help. That’s why we’ve written this article all about how to do homework. Once you’re finished reading it, you’ll know how to do homework (and have tons of new ways to motivate yourself to do homework)! 

We’ve broken this article down into a few major sections. You’ll find: 

  • A diagnostic test to help you figure out why you’re struggling with homework
  • A discussion of the four major homework problems students face, along with expert tips for addressing them 
  • A bonus section with tips for how to do homework fast

By the end of this article, you’ll be prepared to tackle whatever homework assignments your teachers throw at you . 

So let’s get started! 

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How to Do Homework: Figure Out Your Struggles 

Sometimes it feels like everything is standing between you and getting your homework done. But the truth is, most people only have one or two major roadblocks that are keeping them from getting their homework done well and on time. 

The best way to figure out how to get motivated to do homework starts with pinpointing the issues that are affecting your ability to get your assignments done. That’s why we’ve developed a short quiz to help you identify the areas where you’re struggling. 

Take the quiz below and record your answers on your phone or on a scrap piece of paper. Keep in mind there are no wrong answers! 

1. You’ve just been assigned an essay in your English class that’s due at the end of the week. What’s the first thing you do?

A. Keep it in mind, even though you won’t start it until the day before it’s due  B. Open up your planner. You’ve got to figure out when you’ll write your paper since you have band practice, a speech tournament, and your little sister’s dance recital this week, too.  C. Groan out loud. Another essay? You could barely get yourself to write the last one!  D. Start thinking about your essay topic, which makes you think about your art project that’s due the same day, which reminds you that your favorite artist might have just posted to Instagram...so you better check your feed right now. 

2. Your mom asked you to pick up your room before she gets home from work. You’ve just gotten home from school. You decide you’ll tackle your chores: 

A. Five minutes before your mom walks through the front door. As long as it gets done, who cares when you start?  B. As soon as you get home from your shift at the local grocery store.  C. After you give yourself a 15-minute pep talk about how you need to get to work.  D. You won’t get it done. Between texts from your friends, trying to watch your favorite Netflix show, and playing with your dog, you just lost track of time! 

3. You’ve signed up to wash dogs at the Humane Society to help earn money for your senior class trip. You: 

A. Show up ten minutes late. You put off leaving your house until the last minute, then got stuck in unexpected traffic on the way to the shelter.  B. Have to call and cancel at the last minute. You forgot you’d already agreed to babysit your cousin and bake cupcakes for tomorrow’s bake sale.  C. Actually arrive fifteen minutes early with extra brushes and bandanas you picked up at the store. You’re passionate about animals, so you’re excited to help out! D. Show up on time, but only get three dogs washed. You couldn’t help it: you just kept getting distracted by how cute they were!

4. You have an hour of downtime, so you decide you’re going to watch an episode of The Great British Baking Show. You: 

A. Scroll through your social media feeds for twenty minutes before hitting play, which means you’re not able to finish the whole episode. Ugh! You really wanted to see who was sent home!  B. Watch fifteen minutes until you remember you’re supposed to pick up your sister from band practice before heading to your part-time job. No GBBO for you!  C. You finish one episode, then decide to watch another even though you’ve got SAT studying to do. It’s just more fun to watch people make scones.  D. Start the episode, but only catch bits and pieces of it because you’re reading Twitter, cleaning out your backpack, and eating a snack at the same time.

5. Your teacher asks you to stay after class because you’ve missed turning in two homework assignments in a row. When she asks you what’s wrong, you say: 

A. You planned to do your assignments during lunch, but you ran out of time. You decided it would be better to turn in nothing at all than submit unfinished work.  B. You really wanted to get the assignments done, but between your extracurriculars, family commitments, and your part-time job, your homework fell through the cracks.  C. You have a hard time psyching yourself to tackle the assignments. You just can’t seem to find the motivation to work on them once you get home.  D. You tried to do them, but you had a hard time focusing. By the time you realized you hadn’t gotten anything done, it was already time to turn them in. 

Like we said earlier, there are no right or wrong answers to this quiz (though your results will be better if you answered as honestly as possible). Here’s how your answers break down: 

  • If your answers were mostly As, then your biggest struggle with doing homework is procrastination. 
  • If your answers were mostly Bs, then your biggest struggle with doing homework is time management. 
  • If your answers were mostly Cs, then your biggest struggle with doing homework is motivation. 
  • If your answers were mostly Ds, then your biggest struggle with doing homework is getting distracted. 

Now that you’ve identified why you’re having a hard time getting your homework done, we can help you figure out how to fix it! Scroll down to find your core problem area to learn more about how you can start to address it. 

And one more thing: you’re really struggling with homework, it’s a good idea to read through every section below. You may find some additional tips that will help make homework less intimidating. 

body-procrastination-meme

How to Do Homework When You’re a Procrastinator  

Merriam Webster defines “procrastinate” as “to put off intentionally and habitually.” In other words, procrastination is when you choose to do something at the last minute on a regular basis. If you’ve ever found yourself pulling an all-nighter, trying to finish an assignment between periods, or sprinting to turn in a paper minutes before a deadline, you’ve experienced the effects of procrastination. 

If you’re a chronic procrastinator, you’re in good company. In fact, one study found that 70% to 95% of undergraduate students procrastinate when it comes to doing their homework. Unfortunately, procrastination can negatively impact your grades. Researchers have found that procrastination can lower your grade on an assignment by as much as five points ...which might not sound serious until you realize that can mean the difference between a B- and a C+. 

Procrastination can also negatively affect your health by increasing your stress levels , which can lead to other health conditions like insomnia, a weakened immune system, and even heart conditions. Getting a handle on procrastination can not only improve your grades, it can make you feel better, too! 

The big thing to understand about procrastination is that it’s not the result of laziness. Laziness is defined as being “disinclined to activity or exertion.” In other words, being lazy is all about doing nothing. But a s this Psychology Today article explains , procrastinators don’t put things off because they don’t want to work. Instead, procrastinators tend to postpone tasks they don’t want to do in favor of tasks that they perceive as either more important or more fun. Put another way, procrastinators want to do things...as long as it’s not their homework! 

3 Tips f or Conquering Procrastination 

Because putting off doing homework is a common problem, there are lots of good tactics for addressing procrastination. Keep reading for our three expert tips that will get your homework habits back on track in no time. 

#1: Create a Reward System

Like we mentioned earlier, procrastination happens when you prioritize other activities over getting your homework done. Many times, this happens because homework...well, just isn’t enjoyable. But you can add some fun back into the process by rewarding yourself for getting your work done. 

Here’s what we mean: let’s say you decide that every time you get your homework done before the day it’s due, you’ll give yourself a point. For every five points you earn, you’ll treat yourself to your favorite dessert: a chocolate cupcake! Now you have an extra (delicious!) incentive to motivate you to leave procrastination in the dust. 

If you’re not into cupcakes, don’t worry. Your reward can be anything that motivates you . Maybe it’s hanging out with your best friend or an extra ten minutes of video game time. As long as you’re choosing something that makes homework worth doing, you’ll be successful. 

#2: Have a Homework Accountability Partner 

If you’re having trouble getting yourself to start your homework ahead of time, it may be a good idea to call in reinforcements . Find a friend or classmate you can trust and explain to them that you’re trying to change your homework habits. Ask them if they’d be willing to text you to make sure you’re doing your homework and check in with you once a week to see if you’re meeting your anti-procrastination goals. 

Sharing your goals can make them feel more real, and an accountability partner can help hold you responsible for your decisions. For example, let’s say you’re tempted to put off your science lab write-up until the morning before it’s due. But you know that your accountability partner is going to text you about it tomorrow...and you don’t want to fess up that you haven’t started your assignment. A homework accountability partner can give you the extra support and incentive you need to keep your homework habits on track. 

#3: Create Your Own Due Dates 

If you’re a life-long procrastinator, you might find that changing the habit is harder than you expected. In that case, you might try using procrastination to your advantage! If you just can’t seem to stop doing your work at the last minute, try setting your own due dates for assignments that range from a day to a week before the assignment is actually due. 

Here’s what we mean. Let’s say you have a math worksheet that’s been assigned on Tuesday and is due on Friday. In your planner, you can write down the due date as Thursday instead. You may still put off your homework assignment until the last minute...but in this case, the “last minute” is a day before the assignment’s real due date . This little hack can trick your procrastination-addicted brain into planning ahead! 

body-busy-meme-2

If you feel like Kevin Hart in this meme, then our tips for doing homework when you're busy are for you. 

How to Do Homework When You’re too Busy

If you’re aiming to go to a top-tier college , you’re going to have a full plate. Because college admissions is getting more competitive, it’s important that you’re maintaining your grades , studying hard for your standardized tests , and participating in extracurriculars so your application stands out. A packed schedule can get even more hectic once you add family obligations or a part-time job to the mix. 

If you feel like you’re being pulled in a million directions at once, you’re not alone. Recent research has found that stress—and more severe stress-related conditions like anxiety and depression— are a major problem for high school students . In fact, one study from the American Psychological Association found that during the school year, students’ stress levels are higher than those of the adults around them. 

For students, homework is a major contributor to their overall stress levels . Many high schoolers have multiple hours of homework every night , and figuring out how to fit it into an already-packed schedule can seem impossible. 

3 Tips for Fitting Homework Into Your Busy Schedule

While it might feel like you have literally no time left in your schedule, there are still ways to make sure you’re able to get your homework done and meet your other commitments. Here are our expert homework tips for even the busiest of students. 

#1: Make a Prioritized To-Do List 

You probably already have a to-do list to keep yourself on track. The next step is to prioritize the items on your to-do list so you can see what items need your attention right away. 

Here’s how it works: at the beginning of each day, sit down and make a list of all the items you need to get done before you go to bed. This includes your homework, but it should also take into account any practices, chores, events, or job shifts you may have. Once you get everything listed out, it’s time to prioritize them using the labels A, B, and C. Here’s what those labels mean:

  • A Tasks : tasks that have to get done—like showing up at work or turning in an assignment—get an A. 
  • B Tasks : these are tasks that you would like to get done by the end of the day but aren’t as time sensitive. For example, studying for a test you have next week could be a B-level task. It’s still important, but it doesn’t have to be done right away. 
  • C Tasks: these are tasks that aren’t very important and/or have no real consequences if you don’t get them done immediately. For instance, if you’re hoping to clean out your closet but it’s not an assigned chore from your parents, you could label that to-do item with a C. 

Prioritizing your to-do list helps you visualize which items need your immediate attention, and which items you can leave for later. A prioritized to-do list ensures that you’re spending your time efficiently and effectively, which helps you make room in your schedule for homework. So even though you might really want to start making decorations for Homecoming (a B task), you’ll know that finishing your reading log (an A task) is more important. 

#2: Use a Planner With Time Labels 

Your planner is probably packed with notes, events, and assignments already. (And if you’re not using a planner, it’s time to start!) But planners can do more for you than just remind you when an assignment is due. If you’re using a planner with time labels, it can help you visualize how you need to spend your day.

A planner with time labels breaks your day down into chunks, and you assign tasks to each chunk of time. For example, you can make a note of your class schedule with assignments, block out time to study, and make sure you know when you need to be at practice. Once you know which tasks take priority, you can add them to any empty spaces in your day. 

Planning out how you spend your time not only helps you use it wisely, it can help you feel less overwhelmed, too . We’re big fans of planners that include a task list ( like this one ) or have room for notes ( like this one ). 

#3: Set Reminders on Your Phone 

If you need a little extra nudge to make sure you’re getting your homework done on time, it’s a good idea to set some reminders on your phone. You don’t need a fancy app, either. You can use your alarm app to have it go off at specific times throughout the day to remind you to do your homework. This works especially well if you have a set homework time scheduled. So if you’ve decided you’re doing homework at 6:00 pm, you can set an alarm to remind you to bust out your books and get to work. 

If you use your phone as your planner, you may have the option to add alerts, emails, or notifications to scheduled events . Many calendar apps, including the one that comes with your phone, have built-in reminders that you can customize to meet your needs. So if you block off time to do your homework from 4:30 to 6:00 pm, you can set a reminder that will pop up on your phone when it’s time to get started. 

body-unmotivated-meme

This dog isn't judging your lack of motivation...but your teacher might. Keep reading for tips to help you motivate yourself to do your homework.

How to Do Homework When You’re Unmotivated 

At first glance, it may seem like procrastination and being unmotivated are the same thing. After all, both of these issues usually result in you putting off your homework until the very last minute. 

But there’s one key difference: many procrastinators are working, they’re just prioritizing work differently. They know they’re going to start their homework...they’re just going to do it later. 

Conversely, people who are unmotivated to do homework just can’t find the willpower to tackle their assignments. Procrastinators know they’ll at least attempt the homework at the last minute, whereas people who are unmotivated struggle with convincing themselves to do it at a ll. For procrastinators, the stress comes from the inevitable time crunch. For unmotivated people, the stress comes from trying to convince themselves to do something they don’t want to do in the first place. 

Here are some common reasons students are unmotivated in doing homework : 

  • Assignments are too easy, too hard, or seemingly pointless 
  • Students aren’t interested in (or passionate about) the subject matter
  • Students are intimidated by the work and/or feels like they don’t understand the assignment 
  • Homework isn’t fun, and students would rather spend their time on things that they enjoy 

To sum it up: people who lack motivation to do their homework are more likely to not do it at all, or to spend more time worrying about doing their homework than...well, actually doing it.

3 Tips for How to Get Motivated to Do Homework

The key to getting homework done when you’re unmotivated is to figure out what does motivate you, then apply those things to homework. It sounds tricky...but it’s pretty simple once you get the hang of it! Here are our three expert tips for motivating yourself to do your homework. 

#1: Use Incremental Incentives

When you’re not motivated, it’s important to give yourself small rewards to stay focused on finishing the task at hand. The trick is to keep the incentives small and to reward yourself often. For example, maybe you’re reading a good book in your free time. For every ten minutes you spend on your homework, you get to read five pages of your book. Like we mentioned earlier, make sure you’re choosing a reward that works for you! 

So why does this technique work? Using small rewards more often allows you to experience small wins for getting your work done. Every time you make it to one of your tiny reward points, you get to celebrate your success, which gives your brain a boost of dopamine . Dopamine helps you stay motivated and also creates a feeling of satisfaction when you complete your homework !  

#2: Form a Homework Group 

If you’re having trouble motivating yourself, it’s okay to turn to others for support. Creating a homework group can help with this. Bring together a group of your friends or classmates, and pick one time a week where you meet and work on homework together. You don’t have to be in the same class, or even taking the same subjects— the goal is to encourage one another to start (and finish!) your assignments. 

Another added benefit of a homework group is that you can help one another if you’re struggling to understand the material covered in your classes. This is especially helpful if your lack of motivation comes from being intimidated by your assignments. Asking your friends for help may feel less scary than talking to your teacher...and once you get a handle on the material, your homework may become less frightening, too. 

#3: Change Up Your Environment 

If you find that you’re totally unmotivated, it may help if you find a new place to do your homework. For example, if you’ve been struggling to get your homework done at home, try spending an extra hour in the library after school instead. The change of scenery can limit your distractions and give you the energy you need to get your work done. 

If you’re stuck doing homework at home, you can still use this tip. For instance, maybe you’ve always done your homework sitting on your bed. Try relocating somewhere else, like your kitchen table, for a few weeks. You may find that setting up a new “homework spot” in your house gives you a motivational lift and helps you get your work done. 

body-focus-meme

Social media can be a huge problem when it comes to doing homework. We have advice for helping you unplug and regain focus.

How to Do Homework When You’re Easily Distracted

We live in an always-on world, and there are tons of things clamoring for our attention. From friends and family to pop culture and social media, it seems like there’s always something (or someone!) distracting us from the things we need to do.

The 24/7 world we live in has affected our ability to focus on tasks for prolonged periods of time. Research has shown that over the past decade, an average person’s attention span has gone from 12 seconds to eight seconds . And when we do lose focus, i t takes people a long time to get back on task . One study found that it can take as long as 23 minutes to get back to work once we’ve been distracte d. No wonder it can take hours to get your homework done! 

3 Tips to Improve Your Focus

If you have a hard time focusing when you’re doing your homework, it’s a good idea to try and eliminate as many distractions as possible. Here are three expert tips for blocking out the noise so you can focus on getting your homework done. 

#1: Create a Distraction-Free Environment

Pick a place where you’ll do your homework every day, and make it as distraction-free as possible. Try to find a location where there won’t be tons of noise, and limit your access to screens while you’re doing your homework. Put together a focus-oriented playlist (or choose one on your favorite streaming service), and put your headphones on while you work. 

You may find that other people, like your friends and family, are your biggest distraction. If that’s the case, try setting up some homework boundaries. Let them know when you’ll be working on homework every day, and ask them if they’ll help you keep a quiet environment. They’ll be happy to lend a hand! 

#2: Limit Your Access to Technology 

We know, we know...this tip isn’t fun, but it does work. For homework that doesn’t require a computer, like handouts or worksheets, it’s best to put all your technology away . Turn off your television, put your phone and laptop in your backpack, and silence notifications on any wearable tech you may be sporting. If you listen to music while you work, that’s fine...but make sure you have a playlist set up so you’re not shuffling through songs once you get started on your homework. 

If your homework requires your laptop or tablet, it can be harder to limit your access to distractions. But it’s not impossible! T here are apps you can download that will block certain websites while you’re working so that you’re not tempted to scroll through Twitter or check your Facebook feed. Silence notifications and text messages on your computer, and don’t open your email account unless you absolutely have to. And if you don’t need access to the internet to complete your assignments, turn off your WiFi. Cutting out the online chatter is a great way to make sure you’re getting your homework done. 

#3: Set a Timer (the Pomodoro Technique)

Have you ever heard of the Pomodoro technique ? It’s a productivity hack that uses a timer to help you focus!

Here’s how it works: first, set a timer for 25 minutes. This is going to be your work time. During this 25 minutes, all you can do is work on whatever homework assignment you have in front of you. No email, no text messaging, no phone calls—just homework. When that timer goes off, y ou get to take a 5 minute break. Every time you go through one of these cycles, it’s called a “pomodoro.” For every four pomodoros you complete, you can take a longer break of 15 to 30 minutes. 

The pomodoro technique works through a combination of boundary setting and rewards. First, it gives you a finite amount of time to focus, so you know that you only have to work really hard for 25 minutes. Once you’ve done that, you’re rewarded with a short break where you can do whatever you want. Additionally, tracking how many pomodoros you complete can help you see how long you’re really working on your homework. (Once you start using our focus tips, you may find it doesn’t take as long as you thought!) 

body-hand-number-two

Two Bonus Tips for How to Do Homework Fast 

Even if you’re doing everything right, there will be times when you just need to get your homework done as fast as possible. (Why do teachers always have projects due in the same week? The world may never know.) 

The problem with speeding through homework is that it’s easy to make mistakes. While turning in an assignment is always better than not submitting anything at all, you want to make sure that you’re not compromising quality for speed. Simply put, the goal is to get your homework done quickly and still make a good grade on the assignment! 

Here are our two bonus tips for getting a decent grade on your homework assignments , even when you’re in a time crunch. 

#1: Do the Easy Parts First 

This is especially true if you’re working on a handout with multiple questions. Before you start working on the assignment, read through all the questions and problems. As you do, make a mark beside the questions you think are “easy” to answer . 

Once you’ve finished going through the whole assignment, you can answer these questions first. Getting the easy questions out of the way as quickly as possible lets you spend more time on the trickier portions of your homework, which will maximize your assignment grade. 

(Quick note: this is also a good strategy to use on timed assignments and tests, like the SAT and the ACT !) 

#2: Pay Attention in Class 

Homework gets a lot easier when you’re actively learning the material. Teachers aren’t giving you homework because they’re mean or trying to ruin your weekend... it’s because they want you to really understand the course material. Homework is designed to reinforce what you’re already learning in class so you’ll be ready to tackle harder concepts later. 

When you pay attention in class, ask questions, and take good notes, you’re absorbing the information you’ll need to succeed on your homework assignments. (You’re stuck in class anyway, so you might as well make the most of it!) Not only will paying attention in class make your homework less confusing, it will also help it go much faster, too. 

body_next_step_drawing_blackboard

What’s Next? 

If you’re looking to improve your productivity beyond homework, a good place to begin is with time management. After all, we only have so much time in a day...so it’s important to get the most out of it! To get you started, check out this list of the 12 best time management techniques that you can start using today.

You may have read this article because homework struggles have been affecting your GPA. Now that you’re on the path to homework success, it’s time to start being proactive about raising your grades. This article teaches you everything you need to know about raising your GPA so you can

Now you know how to get motivated to do homework...but what about your study habits? Studying is just as critical to getting good grades, and ultimately getting into a good college . We can teach you how to study bette r in high school. (We’ve also got tons of resources to help you study for your ACT and SAT exams , too!) 

Need more help with this topic? Check out Tutorbase!

Our vetted tutor database includes a range of experienced educators who can help you polish an essay for English or explain how derivatives work for Calculus. You can use dozens of filters and search criteria to find the perfect person for your needs.

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Ashley Sufflé Robinson has a Ph.D. in 19th Century English Literature. As a content writer for PrepScholar, Ashley is passionate about giving college-bound students the in-depth information they need to get into the school of their dreams.

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How to Get Homework Done when You Don't Want To

Last Updated: March 2, 2023 Fact Checked

This article was co-authored by Ashley Pritchard, MA and by wikiHow staff writer, Hannah Madden . Ashley Pritchard is an Academic and School Counselor at Delaware Valley Regional High School in Frenchtown, New Jersey. Ashley has over 3 years of high school, college, and career counseling experience. She has an MA in School Counseling with a specialization in Mental Health from Caldwell University and is certified as an Independent Education Consultant through the University of California, Irvine. There are 9 references cited in this article, which can be found at the bottom of the page. This article has been fact-checked, ensuring the accuracy of any cited facts and confirming the authority of its sources. This article has been viewed 246,222 times.

Homework can be a drag, but it's got to be done to keep your grades up and stay on track during school. Going somewhere quiet, making a plan, and giving yourself breaks can all help you stay focused and on task to get your work done quickly. Try to keep your assignments organized and give yourself credit for completing hard or boring work, even if you didn’t want to.

Getting Motivated

Step 1 Pick an easy assignment to start with.

  • Keep a list of your assignments and check them off as you finish them. This can give you a sense of accomplishment that can motivate you to keep going.

Step 2 Work on your homework with your friends to keep each other motivated.

  • Make it the rule that you work for a certain amount of time, or until a certain amount of work has been accomplished. Afterward, you can hang out. Stick to this schedule.
  • Try this out and see if it works. If you're too distracted by having friends around, make a date to hang out after homework instead.

Step 3 Make completing assignments a competition with yourself.

  • Make sure you keep the competition to yourself. Competing with your friends isn’t fun, especially over homework assignments and grades.

Step 4 Understand why you’re doing homework so it doesn’t feel pointless.

  • Learning something that will probably help with future assignments, even if you don't know what they are yet.
  • Proving to your teacher that you understand the homework so that they don’t keep assigning it over and over.
  • Improving your GPA.
  • Getting a good grade.

Step 5 Reward yourself when you finish an assignment.

  • Try not to reward yourself with food, as that can lead to snacking when you aren’t really hungry.

Staying Focused

Step 1 Break your work up into 45-minute chunks.

  • For instance, tell yourself that if you finish your first assignment in 20 minutes, you can go on your phone for 5 minutes.

Step 2 Take 15-minute breaks.

  • Make sure you stand up and do something when it's your break, or you won't get your wiggles out.
  • Set a timer on your phone or use a kitchen timer to let yourself know when it's time to switch tasks.

Step 3 Incorporate your own interests into your assignments.

  • If you don't have control over the subject, try to find connections between the topic and something you care about. Find aspects of the subject that interest you.
  • For instance, if you have to study History but you care the most about fashion, investigate the styles of the times and places you are studying. Learn how political and economical developments changed the way people dressed.

Step 4 Listen to soothing music that isn’t distracting.

  • You can find playlists on Spotify and YouTube that are made for studying and doing homework.

Step 5 Turn off any entertainment when it’s time to focus on the hard stuff.

  • When you're struggling to focus, sign out of your email and all social media so you don't check them as a reflex.

Creating Good Study Habits

Step 1 Set up a dedicated workspace.

  • If you have many textbooks and worksheets, stack them and put them to the side.
  • Get things like pencils, erasers, calculators, rulers, and paper.

Step 2 Keep a homework planner.

  • Having a planner will make it less tempting to procrastinate, as long as you have broken up your studying into manageable chunks.
  • Your planner can be paper, or you can get one on your phone. Just make sure it has space for task lists as well as events.
  • Once you have completed a task, cross it off or put a check next to it. Seeing that you're getting your work done will make you feel better, which in turn will motivate you to keep up the good work.
  • Don't put more than you can do in one day on a list! Split up your week's work so that every day has a manageable amount.

Step 3 Stick to a weekly homework routine.

  • If you have a job or extracurricular activities that change your daily schedule, determine a weekly schedule that you stick to as much as possible.

Step 4 Get help with your homework if you’re struggling.

  • Sometimes just explaining what you have to do will help you understand it better.
  • Talking to another person is a great way to brainstorm ideas. They may ask you questions or provide comments that can help you organize your ideas.
  • Other times, the person you are talking to will notice something about the prompt that you overlooked.

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Expert Q&A

Alexander Peterman, MA

  • Try asking a family member to help you remember when to start your assignments so you don’t forget. Thanks Helpful 4 Not Helpful 2
  • Getting motivated can be tough. Just try your best, and don’t be afraid to ask for help. Thanks Helpful 4 Not Helpful 2
  • If you’re really struggling with a topic, consider going to a tutor for extra help. Thanks Helpful 4 Not Helpful 2

Tips from our Readers

  • Set up a dedicated study area at home with your needed supplies, to establish a consistent homework routine. Having everything in one prepared place helps minimize distractions.
  • Use a planner to schedule out all your assignments. Break them into small, manageable pieces so it's less overwhelming. Checking tasks off as you finish motivates you along.
  • If completely stuck on an assignment, reach out and talk it through with someone. Verbalizing it can provide new insights to move forward.
  • Take short activity breaks every 45 minutes. Get up, stretch, grab some water. It refreshes your mental focus so you stay engaged.
  • Incorporate a fun personal interest into an assignment when possible. Writing about something you care about keeps you absorbed.
  • When you really need to concentrate, eliminate enticing distractions like your phone. Logging out keeps you on track.

why can't i get motivated to do my homework

You Might Also Like

Concentrate on Your Homework

  • ↑ https://hwpi.harvard.edu/files/comm/files/smarttalk_staff_guide.pdf
  • ↑ http://www.wcsu.edu/housing/wp-content/uploads/sites/55/2018/05/Handout-V6N6.pdf
  • ↑ https://www.psychologytoday.com/us/blog/worry-wise/201410/how-prevent-homework-procrastination
  • ↑ Ashley Pritchard, MA. Academic & School Counselor. Expert Interview. 4 November 2019.
  • ↑ https://kidshealth.org/en/teens/homework.html
  • ↑ http://kidshealth.org/en/kids/organize-focus.html?WT.ac=p-ra#
  • ↑ https://www.stonybrookmedicine.edu/sites/default/files/homework_tips.pdf
  • ↑ https://childmind.org/article/strategies-to-make-homework-go-more-smoothly/
  • ↑ http://kidshealth.org/en/teens/homework.html#

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why can't i get motivated to do my homework

How to Motivate Yourself to Do Homework

why can't i get motivated to do my homework

How to Get Motivated to Do Schoolwork to Achieve Stellar Results

To motivate yourself to do homework, set clear, achievable goals, create a distraction-free study space, and establish a regular routine. Use a timer for focused work sessions, reward yourself after completing tasks, and maintain a positive mindset. Remember to take care of your health and seek help if needed.
  • Make a Plan: Break tasks into chunks, set realistic goals.
  • Seek Help: Find a mentor or use assignment services.
  • Set Small Goals: Break homework into smaller, manageable objectives.
  • Stay Organized: Keep workspace tidy and schedule organized.
  • Take Breaks: Regular breaks to recharge.
  • Give Rewards: Treat yourself for completing tasks.
  • Stay Positive: Maintain an optimistic mindset.
  • Get Specialized Help: Seek assistance for challenging subjects.
  • Hang Out With Like-Minded Peers: Surround yourself with motivated friends.
  • Eat Nutritiously: Maintain a balanced diet for focus and energy.

Are you wondering how to motivate yourself to do homework? Transform your study routine with actionable tips like staying organized, taking breaks, making a plan, etc. Read this article to help you foster focus and productivity.

Gain insight on tackling assignments and confidently turning your challenges into triumphs. Find out how to embrace the power of positive habits and witness your motivation soar. Let's break the cycle of boredom and ignite your passion for learning.

Instead of letting deadlines overwhelm you, let's turn them into milestones. With our proven methods, you can easily elevate your academic journey and conquer schoolwork. 

Motivation to Do Homework: Learn Why It Matters

Finding motivation for homework can sometimes feel impossible, especially when you're tired and overwhelmed with many responsibilities. But homework was not given by your teachers or professors as a form of torture.

It's a vital element in your academic journey, and staying motivated is the compass guiding the way to complete them. Consider motivation as the fuel propelling you through your seemingly impossible tasks.

Maintaining inspiration is crucial because it transforms routine assignments into valuable learning opportunities.

When you enthusiastically approach your homework, the benefits extend beyond completion—it fosters a deeper understanding of the subject matter.

Embrace motivation as a tool for getting things done and fostering a positive and productive mindset. In the academic realm, staying inspired is the key to unlocking the doors to knowledge and answering the question of how to get motivated to do schoolwork.

Make a Plan to Help Jump-start Everything

Every student knows the feeling of being overwhelmed by homework. Sometimes, students can't help but scratch their heads, wondering how to get motivated to do schoolwork. It is indeed easy to drag your feet and procrastinate. The secret to conquering that mountain of assignments?

Make a plan! Start by breaking tasks into manageable chunks and set realistic goals. The key is finding what inspires you—a cozy study spot, a reward system, or a study playlist. Having a plan helps organize your workload and gives you a roadmap to success.

So, take a deep breath, make that plan, and watch as motivation for homework becomes your trusty sidekick on your academic journey! 

Seek Help and Find a Mentor

When wondering how to get motivated to do homework, seeking help and finding a mentor becomes a game-changer. The benefits are profound, whether it's reaching out to an alumna, a high-achieving peer, or even considering a professional online "do my assignment" service.

A mentor provides guidance, shares insights, and instills motivation by offering a fresh perspective. Alumnae brings real-world experience which may help you understand. Your peers offer relatability and can also help explain concepts.

Finally, assignment services provide expert support to ensure you can beat your deadlines.

Guidance not only eases your academic load but also fosters a collaborative spirit. Seeking help makes your assignments less daunting. Instead of feeling as if you're drowning in tasks, your mind becomes more prepared for learning and growth.

Break Things Down and Set Small Goals for Homework Assignments

When wondering how to force yourself to do homework, the secret lies in breaking homework assignments down into smaller chunks. Transform your daunting mountain of tasks into manageable molehills. Start with bite-sized objectives that feel achievable, gradually building momentum.

It's like turning homework into a series of mini-victories, making your workload more digestible. Small goals and specific tasks not only boost motivation but also promote a sense of accomplishment.

So, rather than overwhelming yourself, slice your assignments into manageable portions and check your to-do list.

Then, watch as each completed task propels you forward. It's a strategy that helps you stop procrastinating and makes you spend time working on relevant current and future assignments.

Stay Organized to Help You Crush Those Goals

Are you curious how to get motivation to do homework? The answer lies in staying organized to help you crush your goals. Picture your workspace as a battleground—clutter is the enemy, and order is your ally. It's challenging to stay focused amid chaos.

Studies show that a tidy environment fosters mental clarity. So, organize your tasks, create a schedule, and tidy up your space. As you conquer the clutter, you'll find motivation thriving. A well-ordered work area reflects a well-ordered mind, making your homework journey smoother and the path to your goals clearer.

Get organized and watch your motivation, propelling you to academic excellence! And start expecting good grades, and not just in your favorite subject.

Take Breaks to Help You Recharge and Achieve Homework Fun

Wondering how to get motivated for homework? Embrace the power of breaks to help you recharge and do my homework . Picture your brilliant mind as a battery! Continuous work drains your brain of energy needed for motivation.

Breaks act as the charger, replenishing your mental reserves. It's not about procrastination. Instead, think of these planned breaks as strategic rejuvenation. Step away, stretch, take a walk, or indulge in a quick hobby. Spend some time alone and rest for a few hours.

You'll find renewed focus and energy as you return, making your assignments more sustainable.

Strategic breaks aren't like other distractions.

In fact, they are essential tools for maintaining motivation. So, intersperse your study sessions with short breaks and witness how recharging catalyzes academic success. 

Give Yourself Rewards

Are you thinking how to motivate yourself to do school work, especially when feeling sluggish and tired? The answer lies in giving yourself rewards when hitting milestones. Consider it a pat on your back for a job well done.

Rewards don't have to be grand. Even simple treats can work wonders! When you associate completing tasks with positive reinforcement, it creates a sense of accomplishment. This becomes a powerful motivator, especially during slumps.

Whether it's a brief break, a favorite snack, or a small celebration, these rewards are energy boosts. They will help you inject enthusiasm into your schoolwork grind. Whether you're working on social studies, classical music, or any focused course, there are many reasons why a reward in the first place will make any assignment progress much faster.

Celebrate your victories, big or small. With each celebration, watch motivation become your constant companion. 

Stay Positive and Optimistic

Maintaining an optimistic mindset is the cornerstone of tackling any challenge, including homework. Want to figure out how to stay motivated to do homework?

It starts with cultivating a positive outlook. Embrace each of your assignments as an opportunity to learn and grow. Positivity breeds motivation! When faced with difficulties, view them as stepping stones, not stumbling blocks.

Surround yourself with an optimistic atmosphere—whether it's a neat study space or the support of encouraging friends.

Celebrate small victories and approach each task believing you can conquer it. Positivity makes the homework journey more enjoyable and transforms obstacles into opportunities for success. 

Get Specialized Help When You Need It

Pondering how to be motivated to do homework, especially when facing challenging subjects like math problems or drafting an English essay?

The key is getting specialized help when you need it. College encompasses a spectrum of subjects, from English and humanities to math and statistics.

Seeking math homework help for calculus or essay assistance from experts isn't a sign of weakness. You can think of this as a strategic move. Recognizing when to ask for specialized support is a strength. It alleviates your struggles and fosters a proactive approach to learning.

So, don't hesitate to reach out when faced with academic hurdles.

Specialized help ensures you conquer the complexities and stay motivated on your educational journey. 

Hang Out With Like-Minded Peers

If you're figuring out how to get motivation to do school work, one of the answers could be in the company you keep. Imagine being with friends who party hard and ditch deadlines. Uh-oh, that spells trouble!

Instead, surround yourself with like-minded peers who share your academic goals and enthusiasm. Studying with friends who are equally driven creates a supportive environment that fuels motivation. Exchange ideas and share strategies for work-life balance.

Celebrate your successes together. The collective energy of a group with a common purpose can be contagious, making your academic journey more enjoyable.

When you're in the company of peers who are passionate about learning, the motivation to excel becomes a shared experience, propelling everyone toward success. 

Fuel Your Brain and Body with Nutritious Food 

Listen up! Eat well to stay motivated. Why does your diet play an important role in how to make yourself do homework? What you fuel your brain and body matters!

A balanced diet is the secret weapon for sustained focus and energy. Incorporate brain-boosting foods like fruits, nuts, and whole grains into your meals. Skipping meals leads to fatigue, affecting your concentration.

By nourishing your body, you're investing in your academic success. So, make your plate a palette of productivity. Then, watch how your well-fed body becomes the foundation for a motivated mind. 

Students Tend to Forget Water Intake - Will You?

Hydration is critical when figuring out how to get motivation for homework. Dehydration can significantly impact concentration and focus, putting you in a study slump.

So, as a busy student, it's vital to stay hydrated. Water is not just a refreshing beverage to quench thirst. It's also an amazing cognitive enhancer. Many studies show that even mild dehydration can lead to reduced cognitive performance.

Therefore, keep your water bottle within arm's reach while tackling assignments. And drink before you feel thirsty because you're already mildly dehydrated by then. Water helps with mental sharpness. A well-hydrated brain is focused and ready to take on the challenges of homework. 

Use an Inspiring Music Playlist

Fill your study area with an inspiring music playlist—especially if you're wondering how to become motivated to do school work or contemplating how to do my assignment excellently. Music has a magical quality that can ignite motivation.

Create a playlist filled with fave tunes that uplift your spirits and set the tone for productivity. The right soundtrack can turn mundane tasks into engaging activities.

Whether you need a boost to start your assignments or a rhythm to carry you through to ace a test, music is a powerful ally.

So, put on those headphones, hit play, and let the motivational beats become the backdrop to your academic triumphs. 

How to Get Motivation for Homework - FAQs

How to get motivated to do school work .

Do you wish to unlock how to be motivated to do schoolwork? Think of this as like finding the perfect rhythm for a dance. Start small—break tasks into manageable steps. Surround yourself with a supportive study environment.

Use inspiring music as your soundtrack. Stay positive and celebrate victories. Your academic journey is a dance of determination. 

What can I do when I have no motivation to do homework? 

Feeling the homework blues? When you have no motivation to do homework, start small—break your tasks into bite-sized chunks. Change your scenery, create a dedicated study space, and consider incorporating inspiring music.

Seek support from mentors. Remember, every small effort counts, turning your homework struggle into achievable victories.

Where to find motivation in a few hours for schoolwork when I'm lazy?  

Curious how to do homework when you don't want to? Your journey from laziness to productivity is manageable by breaking tasks into small steps.

Then, create a motivating study environment and consider help. For example, seeking physics homework help or essay writing assistance from professionals when needed.

Every small effort counts because you'll find inspiration in every completed task. 

Is seeking professional help online acceptable? 

Absolutely! When figuring out how to get the motivation to do homework, seeking professional help online is a smart move. Online assistance provides valuable support, guidance, and resources, empowering you to tackle assignments confidently. It's a proactive step towards academic success in the digital age.

If I seek online help, how much will I pay? 

The cost of online help varies based on subject, complexity, and deadline, but consider it an investment in your academic success when exploring how to motivate to do homework. Our platform offers flexible pricing, ensuring accessibility to resources and assistance tailored to your needs and budget. 

Where can I find homework help? 

When wondering how to get yourself to do homework, remember that you're in the digital age and finding homework help is a click away. Explore our online platform for personalized assistance. We provide valuable support, making your homework journey more manageable and efficient. 

Is an online assignment platform legal?

Yes, seeking Python homework help , essay writing assistance, or any other service from an online assignment platform like ours is legal. We are a legitimate resource that aligns with the quest to answer how to get motivated for school work, providing valuable assistance and support to enhance your learning experience.

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  • How to Study When You’ve Lost Motivation: 8 Sharp Tips to Get Back on Track

why can't i get motivated to do my homework

In my opinion, two evils conspire to make revision-time miserable: the first is the stress of approaching exams, and the sense that there is an overwhelming amount of information to learn in an ever-dwindling period of time. Even spending time with friends, intended for relaxation, can just be a reminder of the exams you’ll be sitting together and the work you ought to be doing. The second is the boredom; the feeling of oppression that comes with the knowledge that the next week, or month, or six weeks, will be consumed entirely with the business of studying. Of course, there will be days when revision is actually quite enjoyable – when you feel like you’re achieving a lot every day, piecing the different parts of your subjects together, and finally understanding things that have eluded you for months. But equally, the majority of us have just as many bad days, when we’re studying a particularly difficult topic, progress is slow or we just can’t focus. And on those days, the classic study tips seem totally redundant: personally, being ‘helpfully’ advised to make flash-cards or take regular breaks while struggling to understand the very first thing about differentiation has in the past made me feel positively murderous. So, here are some quirky study tips, new ideas to boost your concentration and motivation as a last resort, when everything seems impossible and you’re dangerously close to just giving up and watching old episodes of Breaking Bad all afternoon. Of course, they won’t all work for you, but trying new things never hurts, especially when everything seems lost.

Remember, sometimes it can be helpful to have some group study at a UK summer school rather than studying everything on your own.

Concentrating and remembering

An old teacher of mine swore by a very particular (and in my opinion, totally mad) study habit. She said that if you read something through three times, then at the end of the third time, you would know all of the information it contains perfectly. For her, it worked – she could sit quietly reading a chapter of a textbook, and then after the third time through, answer pretty much any question about it. For me, this is the worst possible way to revise. My concentration span is that of a particularly dim goldfish. I can sit for hours, re-reading the same piece of text up to five, six, or seven times, without ever once taking in what it says. Sure, my eyes will be drifting over the words, but my mind will be elsewhere entirely – thinking about what I’m going to have for lunch, what happened on last night’s Made in Chelsea, what I’m going to revise next, or even how terrified I am about the exam. And even if I do manage to remember the general gist of the passage, by the next day any specific details have totally disappeared. If I’m going to have any chance of taking something in and remembering it for longer than ten minutes, I have to make learning an active process. Here are some ideas to do this:

Set yourself questions

In subjects like History, English, Religious Studies, Psychology, or Biology, where you’ve got to read and learn long swathes of text, make learning active by turning information into questions. Break a text down into chunks of one page, or roughly 500 words each, and for each part, write out five questions that you would ask if you were an examiner testing students on that part. Next, write out the answers. Take your time over this process – your questions should be careful and well thought-out, isolating the most important elements of a topic. You could even put your questions on flash cards, and use them to revise from in the future.

Teach each other

In groups of two, three, or four, break a subject (or some of a subject) down into parts, each go off and learn a part thoroughly, and then come back together and teach each other what you’ve learned. The ‘teacher’ could prepare a slide-show and a handout, explain how to answer past paper questions, and ask the other members of the group to work through some questions together. This method of revision works brilliantly for a few reasons: first, it’s active, forcing you to confront problems rather than skipping over them, and transform information into a form someone else will understand; second, it’s fun, and social, giving you a break from the solitary confines of your spot in the library. It can be adjusted to suit pretty much any subject: in Economics or History, you could each take an essay question, prepare a model answer and discuss it with the group; in a literature exam, you could provide readings and summaries of books or poems; in Maths or a science, teach a whole topic.

Ditch the books altogether

Some students do exceedingly well in exams without ever making revision notes or even reading through their books – instead, revision for them is a process of going through every past paper in existence, and answering all the questions there. Next, get hold of a mark scheme, read through the exemplary answers contained there, and work out how you’ve scored and where you’ve gone wrong. I used to use this method in subjects like Maths and Chemistry. My first efforts were always a total disaster, with scores in the forties and fifties – but I found it astonishing how many questions were repeated in slightly altered form from paper to paper, and how much I improved each time. What’s more, each time I would read through the answers on the mark scheme, I was learning information in the same way as I would from a text book, building confidence and becoming familiar with the particular demands of the paper – but it was easier to concentrate than if I’d used notes, because I was always comparing the answers there to my own efforts. What’s more, in my experience, if you puzzle over something and get it wrong, you’re likely to remember how to do it properly. Of course, with this system of revision it’s crucial to be alert to changes in the syllabus, and there is always a risk of missing out something important – but it’s a great way of livening up revision and can always be combined with other methods to make it more thorough. N.B. When practising, remember to keep to the amount of time you’ll have in an exam.

Try something new

There are radio shows and podcasts on basically everything these days. I revised for my Shakespeare exam at university by listening to a really useful podcast on iTunes – and a quick search confirms there are hundreds more geared towards IB, A-level, and GCSE exams. Don’t feel confined to those specifically for your course, though – you can learn new and interesting information that might boost your grade and give your exam an edge simply by searching for a topic you’re interested in. Downloading and listening to these will give you a fresh perspective, or a new way of understanding a topic – and in addition, is a more low-key method of revising – something you can do while you’re walking to school, sitting on the tube or relaxing in the evening.

Make something

I know a student who put everything she needed to know about Photosynthesis for IB Biology into a brilliant (but incredibly geeky) rap. And another student who made extravagant and actually quite beautiful posters, writing all the information she wanted to remember about World War Two on different parts of a map of Europe. If you’re especially creative, or learn well from seeing, speaking or doing, you can adapt this to suit how you learn – making acronyms, rhymes or posters – or even acting things out to remember them better.

Staying focused and motivated

Try working at a totally new time.

This is one for really desperate times, not to be used all year round: as you will see when you read on, if overused its natural conclusion is a descent into madness. When I’m having an essay crisis, or an exam is looming and I don’t feel prepared, I totally change my routine, and wake up at 3.30am to work or revise. I have real problems focusing in the evening – I find working after 6pm miserable and oppressive, and know that I work very slowly and inefficiently at that time. However, if I go to bed really early (say, 9pm), when I wake up in the small hours of the morning (and once I’ve had a very strong coffee) my brain is refreshed, and I can get loads done before the day has even properly started. What’s more, there are no possible distractions at that time of day – nothing to do, no one to meet for coffees, and Facebook slows to the merest of trickles. Plus, the feeling of intense smugness that being up and working while the rest of the world sleeps will only make you more productive. If you’re not a morning person, this one might not work for you – instead, try giving yourself a lie in, and then staying up a few hours later at night. And of course, make up the time you’ve missed in bed elsewhere.

Break it down

Now, many of you will undoubtedly be sick to death of being told to plan your revision. I personally don’t hold much love for study timetables: in my experience, they inevitably end up sitting over your desk, evilly mocking your ineptitude with each day that you get further and further behind the targets you set three weeks ago. On the other hand, though, without a sense of when everything will get learned, it’s easy to feel totally at sea with revision, with a creeping sense that you might not be learning things quickly or well enough, or that you may have missed something out. Unfortunately, then, they can be something of a necessary evil. However, one tip will make sure you keep pace with your timetable, and realise if you’ve set unrealistic goals, while also increasing your motivation and helping you stay in the library for that crucial extra few hours. Each day, break your revision down into chunks- say, at least ten. Once you’ve completed one chunk, give yourself a little reward: I have a friend who will buy a bag of Maltesers, and eat two after each chunk; another who watches one video on YouTube; a third who checks his Facebook for five minutes and a fourth who spends a few minutes punching a punch-bag! Make it a rule that before you leave the library at the end of the day, you’ve got to have completed the ten small tasks you have set yourself.

Plan daily exercise in groups

Annoyingly, for those of us who prefer an afternoon on the sofa with a movie to a walk or a game of tennis, it’s been proven a hundred times over: regular exercise boosts concentration. What’s more, whole days, weeks or even months spent in the library, working towards a single goal, with no distractions or social interaction are very bad for morale, efficiency and concentration. A great way to break revision up, see some human faces and get moving is to plan to do something active and fun once a day with friends. When I was revising for my IB, a group of us used to go swimming for an hour every day before dinner. This was a great social event (and a good chance to moan about all the work we were doing!), which gave us all something to plan our days around, and a chance to get outside and generally stay sane.

Have you got any unusual study tips that have helped you through desperate times? Let us know in the ‘Comments’ section below!

Images: Man Climbing Mountain

Daniel Wong

How to Get Motivated to Study: 23 Tips for Students Who Procrastinate

Updated on July 14, 2023 By Daniel Wong 147 Comments

how to get motivated to study

Is it hard for you to get motivated to study?

Let’s face it…

It’s so easy to watch one more video or to scroll through your social media feed one more time.

But your exams are approaching.

You have a rising sense of panic, but you don’t know where to begin. The more you panic, the harder it is to get to work.

If this is the situation you’re in, keep reading.

In this article, I’m going to explain 23 proven strategies that successful students use to motivate themselves to study.

Get ready to say goodbye to procrastination!

This article is 3,000 words long, so I’ve created a PDF summary for your convenience. Enter your email below to download it. The PDF contains all the tips found here, plus 7 exclusive bonus tips that you’ll only find in the PDF.

How to motivate yourself to study.

When you’re feeling unmotivated, taking the first step is usually the hardest part.

Here are the best ways to motivate yourself, so you can study productively .

1. Discover why you procrastinate

Procrastinating on your schoolwork  is a complex problem that can have many different causes.

Here are some of the most common:

  • You’ve convinced yourself that your homework is beyond your abilities
  • Putting off your homework is a way of rebelling against your parents or teachers
  • You’ve decided the topic is boring
  • You’re waiting for the “perfect” time to start
  • The task has become so overwhelming that you don’t know where to start

Understanding why you procrastinate is a key first step to getting motivated.

Spend some time reflecting on what makes you procrastinate. This will enable you to identify which of the following tips will help you the most.

2. Break the material down into chunks

A major cause of procrastination is that the task ahead seems overwhelming.

That’s when you need to “chunk down”. Break down each task into small chunks.

Assign yourself a certain number of those chunks each day. Suddenly, you’re no longer faced with a scary task, but rather a series of manageable chunks.

A chunk might be reading two pages of your textbook, completing five multiple-choice questions, or finding four reference articles on the Internet for your paper .

3. Reward yourself

Every time you complete one or two chunks, reward yourself with a short period of relaxation.

It could be five minutes on your favourite smartphone game, a short walk, or playing the guitar.

Rewarding yourself with short and enjoyable breaks is a key part of the “chunking down” technique.

4. Create a study routine

create a study routine

We’re creatures of habit.

Bad study habits are easy to fall into, but you can also develop good study habits to help you keep up with your schoolwork.

If it’s a challenge for you to get motivated to study, you can put this principle to work for you.

Habits are so powerful that once you develop a study routine, you’ll find it difficult to go into relaxation mode without studying.

How should you go about creating a study routine?

The first thing to do is to set up a study schedule (see Tip #14).

Be aware, however, that habits aren’t formed overnight.

Research indicates that it typically takes 20 to 30 days to form a habit. So you’ll have to put in some work before this technique pays off.

5. Be clear about why you want to get good grades

One of the best ways to get motivated to study is to be very clear about why you want to get go o d grades in the first place.

Make a list of the reasons you want to do well academically.

Here are some typical reasons:

  • I want to learn more and develop myself
  • I want to develop the habit of pursuing excellence
  • I want to become a more focused and disciplined student
  • I want to get into a good school or programme
  • I want to have a meaningful career
  • I want to provide well for my family and my parents in the future
  • I want to know that I gave it my best shot
  • I want to live with no regrets

Write down your own list of reasons for studying hard, and put the list at your study desk.

Then, when you’re feeling unmotivated, read the list one more time.

6. Use a mind map to organise the information

If you’re like most people, chances are you’ve been taught to use lists to summarise information. A classic example is to-do lists.

As such, it may seem natural to use lists to summarise the information you’re studying.

But there are times when mind maps are more effective than lists as a way of organising information.

Because mind maps mimic how the brain works.

When you create a mind map, you’re mapping out the way your brain has processed a certain topic.

This makes it easier to get a handle on the topic. It’ll also make it easier for you to retrieve that information when you need it.

You can create a mind map using pen and paper. But if you prefer to do it on your phone, tablet or computer, you can use an app like SimpleMind .

7. Make a “boring” subject interesting

When you find it difficult to study because the subject is “boring”, ask yourself:

“Is the subject really boring, or does it seem that way because I have closed my mind to it?”

As G.K. Chesterton once said: “There are no boring subjects, only disinterested minds.”

If you think a subject is boring, try to engage with the subject by asking yourself questions.

When was this technique or theory developed?

Who developed it?

What problem did it solve?

How would the world be different today if not for this technique or theory?

If you ask the right questions, you can make any subject interesting.

8. Understand the topic, don’t just memorise it

understand a topic

One of the keys to effective studying is to develop an understanding of a topic rather than just memorising facts.

In some situations, rote memorisation may be necessary.

But, in general, the more years you spend in school, the more you’ll be expected to understand relationships and connections between different concepts.

This will require you to apply principles to a given set of facts or to draw conclusions from a given set of facts.

Understanding a topic is far more rewarding than memorising it. So this approach to studying is not only more effective – it will keep you motivated.

9. Look for gaps in your understanding

Try giving a mini-presentation on a topic to a friend or relative. You can do this in a formal way, or you could simply talk to them about the topic.

By doing so, you’ll deepen your knowledge.

But you’ll also realise quickly if there are gaps in your understanding of the topic.

As Albert Einstein once said, “If you can’t explain it simply, you don’t understand it well enough.”

10. Study in short bursts

Research shows that we learn better when we study in short bursts.

It’s called “ spaced learning ”, and the theory behind it is that learning involves the creation of memories.

Memories are formed through links between neurons. In order for these memories to become embedded, the neurons have to be left undisturbed for a period of time.

That’s why we learn better in short bursts of studying. This approach gives the neurons time to “lay down” these new memories.

Read on to Tip #11 to learn about how to put this tip into practice.

11. Use the Pomodoro technique

If you want a system for studying in short bursts, try the Pomodoro technique.

Francesco Cirillo invented the technique in Italy in the late 1980s.

Using a kitchen timer shaped like a tomato (“pomodoro” means tomato in Italian), he found he could concentrate better by studying in short stretches.

Here’s how to apply the Pomodoro technique:

  • Decide on the task that you’ll work on
  • Set the timer for 25 minutes
  • Work on the task
  • Stop working when the timer rings
  • Put a checkmark on a piece of paper
  • If you have fewer than four checkmarks, take a 3- to 5-minute break, then repeat from Step 1
  • After four pomodoros, take a 15- to 30-minute break
  • Draw a line through the four checkmarks and start counting your checkmarks afresh

There are lots of apps to help you apply the Pomodoro technique and become a student who’s better at time management . Here are some of the best apps out there .

12. Don’t expect to feel motivated all the time

Strangely enough, one of the best ways to deal with a lack of motivation is to stop expecting to feel motivated all the time.

The fact is that no one feels motivated all the time.

So don’t rely on feeling motivated in order to get the work done.

Sometimes the motivation just won’t be there.

That’s why you need a study routine and study habits , because systems always beat motivation.

13. Exercise your brain

exercise for your brain

To get motivated to study, you need to train your brain. Think of your brain as a muscle.

Developing your ability to focus is like training to be a world-class sprinter.

It’s all about consistency and making gradual progress.

Continually exercise your brain, even when you’re not studying.

You can do this by reading, thinking through challenging world issues, doing puzzles, or journaling.

The greater the variety of ways in which you train your brain, the stronger and more flexible your brain will become.

There are also various websites with exercises designed to train your brain. Here are three popular ones:

  • NeuroNation

Just as with a physical workout, a key part of training your brain is rest and recovery. So make sure that you get at least 8 hours of sleep a night (many students even need 9 to 10 hours of sleep a night).

Nutrition is another important aspect of training your brain.

The brain needs certain fatty acids in order to function optimally. You can get these fatty acids from eating nuts, avocados and salmon. Other brain foods include:

  • Pumpkin seeds
  • Pomegranate juice
  • Dark chocolate

14. Organise your time

The act of creating a study schedule is a form of commitment, so it will help you to stay motivated.

Here are some useful steps in creating a study schedule:

  • For each subject, make a list of the tasks you need to complete in order to be ready for the exam
  • Download a study schedule template and block out the times you have available each day to study
  • As far as possible, choose blocks of time that are the same each day (e.g. 3:30pm to 5:30pm) so that your study schedule is easy to remember
  • Create a daily plan which lists the most important tasks to be completed for the day

Review your study schedule at the end of each week.

Assess whether you’re on track to reach your study goals by exam time. If you’re not, adjust your schedule by finding additional blocks of time for studying.

15. Study in a group

Many students find it motivational to study in a group.

Of course, it’s crucial that you find the right students to join the study group. These students should have the desire to learn the material well and get excellent grades .

I recommend that the study group have no more than four students. If the group is larger than four, it tends to become distracting.

Studying is more fun in a group.  It also gives everyone a sense of accountability.

When you study in a group, you can make commitments to each other related to new habits you want to develop, or bad habits you want to break.

But the benefits of studying in a group don’t stop there.

When you study in a group you can pool your notes together and get much better notes than any one person could possibly produce.

Also, studying in a group takes advantage of the fact that everyone has different strengths and weaknesses. If there’s a concept you don’t understand, chances are that someone in your group will be able to explain it to you.

16. Make learning active, not passive

Passive learning is where you try to absorb information and knowledge. It’s based on the idea that you’re an empty vessel waiting to be filled.

But research shows that this isn’t the best way to learn.

We actually construct knowledge by integrating the new material with what we already know and have already experienced.

So if you want to learn a new topic quickly and effectively, use as much active learning as you can.

Examples of active learning are:

  • Finding applications of the new topic in your own life
  • Doing case studies where the new ideas or theories are put into a specific context
  • Doing group projects
  • Reviewing and commenting on the work of your friends
  • Thinking of ways to apply concepts to problems you come across

17. Schedule relaxation

This may seem obvious, but when your focus is studying for an upcoming exam, it’s easy to forget that you need time to relax.

Remember Point #10 and “spaced learning”?

We learn new information by creating memories. But those memories need time to be formed. That means having gaps between learning spurts.

In short, you need to schedule relaxation to recharge and learn better.

18. Exercise regularly

exercise

When you’re focused on studying for a major exam, it’s common to overlook exercise.

But, as far as possible, get 20 to 30 minutes of physical activity every day.

This is because regular exercise is vital if you want to study effectively and stay motivated.

Aerobic activity, such as swimming, jogging or walking, sends oxygen, blood and nutrients to your brain.

This helps you to think and concentrate.

Research even shows that short periods of light exercise immediately after studying improves the recall of new information.

19. Visualise yourself doing the task successfully

If you’re having trouble with a particular task, visualise yourself completing that task successfully.

Sports psychologists have long known about the power of visualisation as a technique for accomplishing difficult tasks.

Visualisation uses the “theatre of the mind” to mentally rehearse completing challenging tasks.

It works by laying down neural pathways in the brain. When you repeatedly visualise yourself completing a task, it makes it easier to perform the task in reality.

So spend a few minutes every day visualising yourself successfully completing your various study-related tasks – especially if you find them daunting.

20. Remind yourself that this won’t go on forever

Studying for exams can seem like an endless marathon, but it does have an end date.

Remind yourself of this, particularly on days when you feel overwhelmed or unmotivated.

Telling yourself that “this won’t go on forever” will allow you to focus on the light at the end of the tunnel.

But it will also make you study harder, because you know that you have urgent tasks at hand.

21. Focus on the process, not the result

When you’re studying, it’s often difficult to see the fruit of your labour, especially at the beginning.

That’s why you should focus on the process, not the result.

Did you complete most of your planned tasks today? Congratulate yourself.

Did you stick to your study schedule in general today? Maintain your focus .

Did you put your phone in another room when you were studying, so you wouldn’t be distracted? Keep it up.

Remember, it’s habits that you’re trying to form.

If you get the process right, the results will follow.

22. Get rid of distractions

This may seem like a no-brainer, but it’s amazing how many students try to study with one eye on their textbook and the other eye on their social media feed.

It’s almost as if they want to be distracted.

List all the common distractions you face when you’re studying. Do your best to eliminate every single one of them.

For example, you could:

  • Turn off your Internet access
  • Put your phone on flight mode
  • Put your phone in another room
  • Mute your group chats
  • Use earplugs
  • Delete all the games on your phone, tablet and computer

23. If you don’t feel like starting, set a timer for 5 minutes

set a timer

Sometimes, the hardest part of anything is simply starting.

But the fear of doing something is almost always worse than the actual doing. Once you start, you’ll find it wasn’t as bad as you thought.

The same applies to the fear of learning . If you don’t feel like getting to work, set a timer for 5 minutes.

You can tell yourself that once those 5 minutes are up, you can stop work.

But, in all likelihood, you would have got some momentum going, so you’ll continue.

I hope these words of Johann Wolfgang von Goethe will inspire you:

“Whatever you can do or dream you can, begin it. Boldness has genius, power, and magic in it.”

The keys to getting motivated to study are organising your time and work, and knowing how to use your mind effectively.

That’s what I’ve shown you in this article: 23 tips for organising your time, developing the right mindset, and using your brain in the most efficient way possible.

(Download the free PDF below to learn 7 bonus tips.)

Follow these tips for studying smart – not hard – and you’ll soon be on your way to becoming a successful student who doesn’t procrastinate!

Like this article? Please share it with your friends.

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April 28, 2018 at 2:41 pm

Love your ideas! especially “Break the material into chunk”, “Mind map”,”Make boring topics to interesting”, These guidelines are really effective to my studying plan. Hope you will write more books pertaining to academic excellence as I am looking forward .Kudos to you for sharing!!

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April 28, 2018 at 3:06 pm

Glad you like the article!

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April 7, 2019 at 11:59 pm

The article is so powerful. Great ideas Mr.Wong you’ve changed lives.

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July 3, 2019 at 8:36 am

Great article, I am sure it will help me with my students.

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April 26, 2019 at 9:05 pm

thank you so much this is gonna change my life

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April 27, 2020 at 10:07 pm

Thank you very much am sure after reading this articles now I can say goodbye procrastination. Thanks

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December 16, 2020 at 4:23 pm

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August 18, 2019 at 2:57 am

Thanks a lot!

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November 7, 2019 at 9:13 pm

before i used to study all day and i used to be a topper..but due to games my grades went on falling…my parents also face few business problems right now but they try their best to make me feel complete..today i felt all this and i wanted to change..so i came up to this website and went through all the tips…thanks bro and my exam are coming up..hope i do well…also before coming here i was going to open a video game but i stopped myself..i will try my best!!!

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April 5, 2020 at 1:17 pm

Video games are the worst distraction 😂

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April 8, 2020 at 5:29 pm

im the worst distraction

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May 10, 2020 at 5:47 pm

haha..u wish!

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April 23, 2021 at 1:32 pm

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January 29, 2021 at 10:22 pm

Thank you so much for this content. This is the best article that I’ve read related to this subject. It is so useful.

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August 8, 2020 at 1:18 am

Same here bro, I am a topper but also a pc gamer. I just don’t want to fail but I don’t want to stop playing also. But after reading this I will surely control gaming.

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November 29, 2020 at 12:17 am

Hi bro do you study these days like when you read this for the first time and can you tell me some of the tips which you used to stop wasting your time

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May 10, 2021 at 2:58 am

Man i have same situation, It looks you are my reflection. Reader: does it really happen in this world

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July 10, 2021 at 10:24 pm

Even though i study all night i dont get good marks

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April 16, 2020 at 5:11 pm

This increased interest in me to study

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May 24, 2020 at 10:32 pm

this is the best thank u for helping us

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October 15, 2020 at 3:04 am

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January 16, 2021 at 10:42 am

Thanks.. Obviously everyone who visits this site is the one who has same issue of procrastination and wasting time.. All comments same lols

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November 25, 2020 at 9:42 pm

Thanks for the guidelines, Mr. Wong.

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December 15, 2020 at 10:30 pm

Wow I really liked it Thanks!

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April 30, 2021 at 2:22 am

I am really thankful to you sir . This article gives me goosebumps. I hope it will definitely change my life for good

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November 19, 2018 at 12:27 pm

I agree! This was very helpful and I will use it as a future reference!

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November 24, 2018 at 12:52 am

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July 18, 2019 at 2:43 am

Thanks a lot

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March 15, 2020 at 1:17 am

Thank you much Daniel. Like a flow chart, the brain mapping is going to work wonders for connecting the subjects of my study.

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November 26, 2020 at 1:31 am

Thanks for the help bro 🤜

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December 11, 2020 at 8:20 pm

I became addicted to video games… soon after that my grades started falling… I’m currently in one of the best schools in the country but I’m the worst student in the class. I don’t know what to do… I literally can’t study anymore like I used to… hope this is gonna help me.

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April 3, 2021 at 6:57 pm

Hi, maybe do not pressure yourself too much. I’m no pro but maybe setting your goal to get better scores than the second worst at first and then go rank higher each time, like levelling up. It can be fun and motivational.

Don’t play too much that you won’t sleep and eat properly. (Important bro) If gaming has become your life then think of your brain as a cpu and school a tryhard game and exam a high boss.

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May 3, 2018 at 2:10 am

Very useful tips Thank you doctor

May 3, 2018 at 8:49 am

You’re welcome, Sulaiman.

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May 13, 2018 at 5:08 pm

nice i have encouraged by you

May 13, 2018 at 10:12 pm

You’re welcome!

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June 28, 2019 at 4:23 am

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August 21, 2018 at 4:53 pm

Thank you doctor it will really help me

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September 3, 2018 at 7:22 pm

Really this helped me a lot….thanks for your motivational tips and i loved that tip on bored subjects…Ones again thanks a lot Daniel..love you

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September 17, 2018 at 1:06 pm

Nice blog, Thank you for shear this information, It’s very helpful for me and everyone.

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October 16, 2018 at 3:48 pm

Love these tips….. Best ones I’ve come across so far hands down 🙂

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October 17, 2018 at 7:20 pm

Hi I am Hasin…and I am really struggling due to lack of concentration…I have only 5 months left for a crucial examination and I can’t seem to concentrate even a little bit…I read the article and feel somewhat motivated..But I am not quite sure whether I can actually convert myself from what I am right now…I am really very tensed…I just hope this works out well for me…

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November 18, 2018 at 11:17 pm

You don’t have to worry set your mind to it and focus, you will do better than you could ever imagine.

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December 14, 2020 at 12:29 am

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January 21, 2019 at 4:26 am

bro…….5month due 5months ……more than enough …….dont be worried you nerd

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April 23, 2019 at 6:23 pm

How did the exams go?

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October 21, 2018 at 8:13 pm

I’m having intrest to study…first my friend was helping me in studies I got first class in Al the semester..but now he is too busy because he is teaching others..if I start to study at that movement I can understand..after tat my mind will b blank..only 2weeks left for my semester examz what should I do now??

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July 17, 2019 at 1:00 am

No brother u dont have any intrest in study .Ur fathers pays money to the college to ask dought their to more and more educated qualified proffesor thain ur friend .u suppose clear your doughts from professor. So if u really want to study hard be regular in college logoff from social media take urself out from the comfort zone ,if u did the same from that period u dont need friend their to teach u .thanku

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November 4, 2018 at 9:30 am

Don’t worry everything will be alright just focus on your study.

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November 10, 2018 at 4:00 pm

nice thoughts to fight challenging problems

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November 14, 2018 at 9:00 am

Needed it right now. phew. Thanks!

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November 16, 2018 at 1:05 am

Arigato Doctor. It really helps🙃

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November 17, 2018 at 7:20 pm

I needed this. I’m quiet motivated. Thank you so much.

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December 26, 2018 at 8:35 pm

Great tips! One of the most basic things that we need to understand is that each and every child has a different learning capacity and different learning style. Some child might grasp things quickly, while others may take time. In high school, more studying techniques are there which can help students to score well in exams.

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December 27, 2018 at 12:26 am

I need to be a member

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January 4, 2019 at 4:30 pm

Hey I’m feeling motivated by reading this. And some lf the tips are really perfect for me. I literally get fully help from this article.

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January 9, 2019 at 3:43 am

Really this is very helpful I like all tips thank you so much

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January 18, 2019 at 12:25 am

This feels really good and it helped me a lot too thanks much!

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January 19, 2019 at 9:49 pm

Explained By Heart ! Thank You Sir..

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January 25, 2019 at 9:02 pm

Thanks to your hurt opinion,Really its too good.

July 17, 2019 at 1:03 am

Yes ,I’m getting hurted as well.can u please share ur ideology. I want to write a book on that.plz😭😭😭😁😭😁😭😍

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January 29, 2019 at 10:21 pm

This is really helpful…I have one of my most important exams in my life in April, but I have bit of lacks here and there. Though I know 2 months is a huge time if I try, but I was really lost about how to start, now I can see some light…..Thanks a lot, for sharing these awesome ideas.

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February 5, 2019 at 4:47 pm

The best way to start the study is switched off your cell phone or handover it to your parents. Then other factors will automatically followed.

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February 1, 2019 at 12:15 am

The best motivational article I have ever read.thanks and keep it up.

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February 2, 2019 at 1:04 am

It is really a wonderful motivation it’ll help to those who are feeling like they can’t…I’ll surely implement this during my study holidays n I am sure that I’ll get the top most rank …tqs for motivation..

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February 2, 2019 at 1:16 am

i have a studying anxiety,,,my exam wkll be in 2 months and still struggling in preparing for it 🙁 i have no motivation and start the day in the idea that i want to study but ending it the opposite and stressed all the time,,any helpful suggestions

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February 8, 2019 at 5:13 am

-#9 is powerful!

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February 9, 2019 at 7:49 pm

Thanks for the tips and ot was really helpfull and I hope that I get succesfull.

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February 11, 2019 at 5:40 pm

Thanks for your most simple and effective ways. I feel things would be easy if one follows even 5 of the above.

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February 12, 2019 at 12:09 pm

final exams coming up in 2 weeks and here i am… i re-read this article whenever i feel demotivated and it definitely shows me some light. its too late for me now, but i must say, the biggest distraction is definitely your phone. so guys just give them away to your parents or whom so ever, atleast when u r studying. and make sure u hv a nice and quiet study environment. take small breaks in between and keep ur table stocked on light and healthy snacks. dont stay up too late and get atleast 6 hrs lf sleep. i hv soo many tips from reading many articles but i fail to implement it on my own study routine. anyways, all the best u guys!!! 🙂

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February 13, 2019 at 2:36 am

Really these are very helpful tips and the only thing is that we have to use these tips so that we will succeed

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February 14, 2019 at 2:07 am

All of your tips are really helpfull and amazing . Thank you so much for giving us such a nice ideas to get rid of our troubles.It helps me alot .

Thanks once again.

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February 22, 2019 at 10:43 pm

Hi, Good day. I thank you for the paper. But, to be honest, I can not find out exactly why I do not study. I always scored good grades, but I never remember to have a strange motive for studying. And rightly so now that I am justified by a fateful exam, I do not want to study at all I’ve gotten caught up with everything and there’s no incentive to move forward I see all my dreams and I have no interest in moving I do not know what I’m doing? Thank you, if you help me

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February 24, 2019 at 12:19 pm

Thank u so much

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February 26, 2019 at 1:47 pm

One of the best articles have come across!. Thank you so much sir!☺ Feeling much much better.🙏

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March 4, 2019 at 2:52 am

Thank you so much for typing in such an amazing article or in fact all the helpful factors that we ever needed thank you once again.

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March 5, 2019 at 2:46 am

Honestly it wasn’t really helpful for me cuz I’m studying Russian and it’s really boring but I can’t ask myself those questions to make it more interesting….

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March 9, 2019 at 4:50 pm

very inspiring thoughts sir.thank you!

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March 9, 2019 at 5:30 pm

for me it usually happens when i decide to miss a class or two and things pile up and i get more caught up in other things besides school. Once that point hits and midterms come around next week i have to try to cram up everything because it feels like i didn’t actually learn anything up until now, it was just memorizing for quizzes and doing small homework assignments. now even knowing what to study and having the material in front of me i don’t feel motivated at all. I am a senior in college now studying computer science. I hate trying to understand certain code or other things and I end up rereading my notes or things multiple times while thinking about something else (like how much i screwed up by taking days off class!)

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March 10, 2019 at 1:52 am

Thank you so much Tip 05 wow motivated me alot… am about to start studying my books now thanks to you.

But hey I got a big problem ,I can’t concentrate when my phone is not here with me. I become disturbed cause i think of it all the time while studying what should do?

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March 11, 2019 at 1:01 am

Great. All these tips are really based on real facts. thanks for sharing the details.

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April 1, 2019 at 8:01 am

You’re right!

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March 12, 2019 at 11:07 pm

I know that if I try I can actually good grade but i m not motivated enough to try I can’t seem to get my seldf into the mood of studying since I can’t study more than one day before cause my school gives a test every day two tests on Wednesdays and homework and above all that we are learning a new language and I’m really stressed out!! I really don’t know what to do!! Please help!!!!!

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March 28, 2019 at 4:08 pm

This is the best article I’ve ever read regarding procrastination !!

April 1, 2019 at 7:59 am

Thank you for this tips. 😊

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April 5, 2019 at 7:44 pm

Tq so much ,I just read it’s benefit for me ,I wish I Follow your tips ..

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April 8, 2019 at 2:14 pm

Thank you sir, for your great motivation.

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May 6, 2019 at 1:24 am

I LIKE THAT DANIEL WONG YOU ARE HARD WORKING.’!’

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May 13, 2019 at 1:10 am

Hi,my name is Ada. i just have a month and a half left of school and they are full of exams and i just cant seem to focus i don`t know what i am doing wrong because i love studying and getting a good grade but know i just don`t care. and the worst part is i really want to become a doc but i am just not getting motivated to study

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May 15, 2019 at 3:06 am

I like this . It is very helpful thx

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May 17, 2019 at 3:04 am

I MUST STUDY HARD THAN THINK. IT IS GREAT SUCCES IN MY FUTURE. THANKS TO DR WONG

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May 19, 2019 at 2:30 am

It was an amazing article!!!. After a long period of time i regained my motivation towards studies. Thanks for such a awesome and organized suggestion.

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May 20, 2019 at 12:32 am

Lovely ideas. Feeling much more motivated

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May 21, 2019 at 8:45 pm

So my exam’s the day after tomorrow and I’m sitting here reading motivational blogs…..what even is my life

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June 11, 2019 at 5:17 pm

Excellent article!!! For past several weeks,I was looking up for some kind of motivation and this article helped me to regain my interest in studies.Thnks a lot

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June 20, 2019 at 1:30 am

Really i thought i am not motivate by anyone but i m wrong. i m feeling pleasure at the moment this is a unique way to motivate and one of best essay in world

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July 29, 2019 at 12:34 am

Although i am one of top 10 students of my own class but in routine its also hard for me to be motivated and concentrated daily. so thanks for such great advice , hope it will work.

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August 20, 2019 at 2:46 am

Instead of studying I’m reading this article wow 😭

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September 19, 2019 at 8:03 pm

Very interesting and effective ways….. Thank you for giving us this article…

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October 1, 2019 at 4:53 am

this article will save my life

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October 3, 2019 at 12:14 am

My mom doesn’t have much confidence in me so this was motivating and I really appreciate your efforts and hope I really do well this year

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October 3, 2019 at 11:56 pm

Wow what an amazing article thanks for this precious article it is really helped to me a lot

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November 20, 2019 at 2:16 pm

I love this read with our children. Thank you so much..

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November 27, 2019 at 12:30 am

I want to study

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December 7, 2019 at 1:46 am

thank you daniel for giving me wonderful information

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December 18, 2019 at 11:14 pm

Before I came here, I was obsessed from playing minecraft. But my exams were going on. But after visiting here, I think I am kind of relieved now. Thanx Dr. Daniel Wong

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December 20, 2019 at 2:42 pm

Such a beautiful article! Really helped !All the points are so inspirational. Thank God I found this

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December 29, 2019 at 7:14 pm

Awesome article Daniel. All the points are spot on. This article is motivating to not only students,kids but also to adults as we are all students of life. Thank you .

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December 31, 2019 at 8:34 pm

This article is very helpful for regular study to achieve a goal. Thanks so much!!!!

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January 15, 2020 at 12:49 am

Hi Mr.Daniel ,I am Diana from Ghana. Waaaw this article is indeed a God sent to me ,and I was wandering how I’m I going to excel in my exams, but lool and behold got everything here.I really appreciate your efforts and hope that I will get good grades after my exams,God richly bless you.

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January 16, 2020 at 2:55 pm

Thanks sir for your help

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February 2, 2020 at 11:58 pm

I love ur idea this is amazing trick…to gain intreset in studies…it also helps in making study a daily routine…..9797663167 my whatsapp no. Plz text me there if u have more ideas

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February 16, 2020 at 7:36 am

I really do hope this works for me cause I find studying boring🤦‍♂️

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February 25, 2020 at 12:39 pm

I am Shwazz from Embu,Kenya …i used to perform brilliantly in my form one but my grades took a nose dive while in form two due to myself indulging into unhealthy friendship and loss of interest to study…am in my final year but the work i have to cover is too large so as to prosper but am not getting that inner instinct to study…..Please come to my rescue

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March 2, 2020 at 12:42 am

thanks alot it gave me a hopefull start

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March 31, 2020 at 4:53 am

wow now i will study

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April 14, 2020 at 9:14 am

Great article. The article helped me to know why I am procrastinating and how to start writing my term papers. Thank you :)🙋‍♂️

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May 7, 2020 at 3:11 am

Thanks a lot, you are doing the god’s work!!! I was wondering how to stop procrastinating my work as the exams are near. No 5 has helped me a lot. Can’t thank you enough!!!

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May 7, 2020 at 4:12 am

i used to be brilliant student but now cause of fire age and my over confidence i lose my height and be medium class student and step by step i lose moral for studying so even foe tests and finals i dont feel anything so help me to have moral to study helppppp please

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June 1, 2020 at 7:23 pm

thanks, doctor

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June 8, 2020 at 10:49 pm

hi,,,,im actually preparing for one of the toughest exam in the world,JEE ADVANCE..people say your future is setteled after you get into iits…but my problem is i have no intrest in studies..i have other dreams but to fulfill my dream i have to be on safer side so i need to be in iit but i dont have intrest in studying,….. i know it is irritating for you to read my comment but just imagine how would i be feeling of all these stuff happening to me.. please help me out

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June 26, 2020 at 4:36 am

Thank you doctor I appreciate your had work, you really get students issues during time of study.

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July 5, 2020 at 11:30 am

The article is so amazing I’m really appreciating you Thank for this Mr.Deniel Keep it Up I am also attending your webminar…

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August 19, 2020 at 8:40 am

I just don’t know what to do with myself. If someone motivates me or inspires me, i will remember it for hardly one day and after that i will forget everything and will start following the excuses of not studying. Till now i watched many motivational videos and read articles but i didn’t developed at all. I m just a dumb and boring girl. I think i will never succeed in life.

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August 22, 2020 at 6:32 pm

Best motivational article i have ever read………………Thank you sir…

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September 14, 2020 at 9:32 pm

I never like motivational articles but this was the best one I have ever read, thanks. Quick question, how can I avoid sleeping while studying?

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September 21, 2020 at 4:39 am

In this time of the coronavirus, where we all are quarantined in the house, I am so stressed out… since we are having online classes, I am getting easily distracted through the internet… how should i stop this… hoping for the best.

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October 8, 2020 at 7:00 am

Thanks a lot for this article, sir! I am a very competitive student, and I recently got a bad grade on a test and have been feeling low and unproductive, though I still have to do other homework and tests. This article has motivated me to start studying again!

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October 19, 2020 at 6:21 pm

I just really wanna try your ideas. Actually I was a JEE main aspirant but really these days I am getting distracted. I will try your techniques to overcome the distractions.

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November 2, 2020 at 3:37 am

Carla wants to get through university, and she knows she needs the degree to have a decent life, but she’s just not that into it. She’s never thought of herself as a good student, and that hasn’t changed much at Biust. She has trouble paying attention in those big lecture classes, which mostly seem pretty boring. She’s pretty sure she can pass all her courses, however, as long as she takes the time to study before tests. It doesn’t bother her to skip classes when she’s studying for a test in a different class or finishing a reading assignment she didn’t get around to earlier. She does make it through her first year with a passing grade in every class, even those she didn’t go to very often. Then she fails the second assessment in her first first year class. Depressed, she skips the next couple classes, then feels guilty and goes to the next. It’s even harder to stay awake because now she has no idea what they’re talking about. It’s too late to drop the course, and even a hard night of studying before the final exam isn’t enough to pass the course. In two other classes, she just barely passes. She has no idea what classes to take next semester and is starting to think that maybe she should drop out for now.

What do you think went wrong with Carla’s studies? What advice would give to her?

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November 12, 2020 at 12:18 pm

It’s one of the best articles I have ever read! Hats off to you brother!

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November 23, 2020 at 8:17 pm

Thanks for sharing, I love this article.

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January 17, 2021 at 6:49 pm

What tip do you have for me having the highest motivation, but turning to GTA Chinatown wars?

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January 26, 2021 at 5:31 pm

Thanks sir for providing such a motivating and informative post. I was searching for such an article to guide me on how to study better. Finally I found it here. Good luck to you!

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February 6, 2021 at 11:30 pm

I’m going to give it a try Hope it works out for me because I’m so restless when it comes to studying

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February 23, 2021 at 1:43 am

Thank you it is gonna change my life

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February 24, 2021 at 9:44 pm

I really think the problem is not with the students but with the education system. It kills creativity and children’s interest.

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March 10, 2021 at 2:59 am

Oh thank you bro

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March 24, 2021 at 5:51 am

To be honest I’m a 10th grade student who isn’t going to school for months because of many school problems and my exams are very near and I started to think that even if I study nothing gonna change everything’s going to be ruined no matter how hard I study I can’t change the result but a huge THANKS to you that your article gave me way much courage and motivation that I felt really comfortable like my half of the problems are solved Thanks again

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April 23, 2021 at 4:12 pm

Thanks for the great blog!

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May 5, 2021 at 11:08 pm

this is so inspirational

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May 31, 2021 at 1:43 pm

Thank you sir, It’s very helpful, all the aforementioned steps are so powerful and easy to change ones habit and improves ones interest. I was so passive in the last two months that I even didn’t touch my books and waste all my precious time on social media. But after reading this article, I feel more confident and motivated . It seems hard to start for the first time but I still remember the famous saying that “go to the last mile and enjoy it.” Thank you so much!

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July 9, 2021 at 6:50 pm

Thank You For Sharing Valuable Information. Really This Was Very Informative Article.

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March 10, 2023 at 9:17 pm

Hope it works out for me because I’m so restless when it comes to studying

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October 3, 2023 at 7:56 am

thank you very much for all this information and advice , i am sure it will help me in my studies more

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October 11, 2023 at 7:06 pm

Hello. This was an amazing article. You have changed my and Amber’s lives. We will now study a lot, maybe. Thank you sooo much.

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November 26, 2023 at 1:00 pm

Thank you Daniel! Bookmarked a while ago, re-reading again. You make it easy to read/digest.

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why can't i get motivated to do my homework

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What’s My Motivation? (No, Seriously, I Need to Get Started.)

No one enjoys cleaning bathrooms or paying bills, but most people can ‘suck it up’ and get the job done. however, when a person with adhd lacks interest in or motivation to complete a job, it is painful (if not impossible) to tackle it. here, learn how to trick your brain into doing what you need it to do..

Laurie Dupar

Tackling a to-do list when you lack motivation is not impossible, but it takes a lot of energy, and, for some, it actually feels physically painful. Spending our days trying to complete tasks we are not motivated to do makes us feel bad. It’s a feeling that knocks many of us back to the couch, raising the white flag and surrendering ourselves to failure once again.

An ADDitude reader recently wrote to me: “I know that I’m supposed to do the things on my to-do list each day, but I don’t. I have no motivation — and I feel down on myself because of the mistakes and missteps I have made due to my attention deficit disorder ( ADHD ) symptoms. How do I get motivated to do what I’m supposed to do when I’m not feeling good about myself and my abilities?”

You Can Conquer Your Lack of Motivation

Not being able to get things done when we feel unmotivated ranks up there with other things humans can’t do — breathing underwater, licking our elbows, or sneezing with our eyes open. Granted, there are a few people out there who can manage to-do lists without any inspiration, but not many of us can pull off getting started.

So, how can we get rid of those negative feelings? How can we get motivated? What gets our juices flowing so we can get up and do what we want or need to do? Simple — doing something that feels good or pleasurable to us. People with ADHD need to learn to tap into the meaning, importance, or worth of the task at hand.

6 Expert Strategies for Overcoming Lack of Motivation

Motivation hack #1: celebrate small successes.

First, to feel less down on yourself, plan to do something that feels rewarding to you several times a day. This is not an option. It is essential. Do something creative or pleasurable. It will recharge your battery. It’s like making sure you have your oxygen mask on first before putting on someone else’s.

[ Take This Self-Test: How Badly Do You Procrastinate? ]

Maybe you’d enjoy listening to upbeat music, talking to a friend, going outside, spending 15 minutes working on a hobby. Make a list of 10 things you enjoy, and refer to it when you are feeling down. Make sure you have little successes, no matter how small, every day.

Motivation Hack #2: Remove the “Shoulds” or “Supposed to’s” in Your Life

You will notice that you use these words only when you are trying to do something that someone else considers important. “Should” and “supposed to” are motivation killers and need to be eliminated from your vocabulary. You can minimize “shoulds” by turning them into “wants.” Think about the “un-motivating” task before you. Ask yourself, “What, if anything, about this task is OK with me? What piece of it might I enjoy?”

A common “should” is doing the laundry. Seeing this tedious chore as a “want” might mean noticing how you enjoy the scent of your favorite detergent as you put it in the washer. You don’t look forward to doing the laundry, but you like the smell of the fabric softener sheet. Or maybe you enjoy the warmth of the laundry coming out of the dryer. Or maybe you love that sense of accomplishment when the laundry baskets are momentarily empty. Focusing on the “want to” changes the “should” into “I want to do the laundry because I like the way it smells right out of the dryer!”

Motivation Hack #3: Tap into Your Creativity

When you face a difficult task, tap into your creative ADHD brain for inspiration. Ask yourself: Is this something I have to do…or is there someone else who could do this easier, or who would actually find it rewarding?

[ Download This Free Resource: 19 Ways to Meet Deadlines and Get Things Done ]

Motivation Hack #4: Give Yourself Permission to Delegate

Another person might actually enjoy doing a task you find dreary. Give yourself permission to let go of what you don’t do well, and let someone else do the chore or task. For instance, dry cleaners are brilliant at doing laundry, and grocery shopping can be turned into a new experience when done online or completed by a spouse, teen, or neighbor in exchange for your doing something for them that they don’t enjoy and that you do. Maybe working in the back yard in the fresh air turns you on.

Motivation Hack #5: Tailor Tasks to Your Interests

If the task cannot be eliminated as a “should,” and you are the only person who can complete it, make it more bearable by asking, “How can I do this in a way that works for me? What might make it feel worthwhile?” People with ADHD do things differently. Going grocery shopping with a friend would be fun if you get to spend time socializing. Shopping late at night, when there are fewer people, minimizes the agony of waiting in lines. Shopping at a different store might turn picking up groceries into an adventure.

Motivation Hack #6: Turn Your Boring Tasks Exciting Games

Ask, “How can I make this boring task fun or rewarding for me?” Make it into a new game: Challenge yourself to get the best deal by using coupons; time yourself to get in and out of the store in under 30 minutes. Treat yourself to a new fruit, bakery item, bouquet of flowers, or beverage when you are done. Use your ADHD imagination.

Feeling unmotivated is a big obstacle for adults with ADHD. You can’t change that by trying harder or “just doing it.” We don’t work that way. Nobody works that way. I like to look at obstacles as opportunities to enlist our creative problem-solving abilities.

The key to putting the meaning back in motivation is to let go of the way it works for everybody else. Use your out-of-the-box thinking to come up with a fun, interesting, and rewarding way to make it work for you. I have no doubt you can do it.

Bust Your Lack of Motivation by Asking the Right Questions

When I work with a client who has motivation challenges, I ask the following questions. You or your coach can do the same.

  • What excites or reenergizes you? What recharges your batteries?
  • What old beliefs about what you “should” do might not be true?
  • Who else can do this task more easily than you?
  • Think about a time in your past when completing a similar type of task wasn’t so hard. What was different? Can you bring some of those elements into the situation now?
  • How can you break this task down into three pieces so it feels more manageable?
  • How will you reward yourself when you complete this task?
  • What would you need to let go of to allow someone else to take it over?
  • What needs to change to turn this “should” into a “want”?
  • What are you good at?
  • What self-talk do you notice that you can let go of?
  • What about this task is important or meaningful to you?
  • When is the best time for you to do this task?
  • What support do you have to get this task done?
  • What obstacles are preventing you from completing this task? Which of these can you eliminate now?
  • How can you make this task fun, interesting, or enjoyable?

[ Get Unstuck Now: Adults with ADHD Share Their Procrastination Fixes ]

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How to Get Motivated to Do Homework: Tips and Tricks From Experts

Students all around the world are facing a serious problem almost every day. They need to complete their homework. And in many cases, they need to complete quite a few assignments every day. Many students don’t manage to complete their school assignments on time, even if these assignments are interesting. These people would probably really enjoy working on their homework if they were motivated.

So, to be more productive and more efficient, you need to learn how to get motivated to do homework in college. In fact, learning how to get motivated is important for students of any age. With the right state of mind, a few tips and tricks, and a bit of planning, you will quickly be able to greatly increase your productivity even on less interesting projects.

how to get motivated to do homework

Table of Contents

How do you do homework when you don’t want to, a good state of mind – how to make yourself do homework and love it, how do i regain motivation for school, how do you do homework fast and fun, tips and tricks on how to motivate yourself to do homework, how do you do homework when you can’t focus, does it really work, what is the best time to do homework.

“Every kid goes through puberty. They wonder what to do about girls and struggling with homework, and every adult has been through that.” Tom Holland

Here is what to do in case you feel unmotivated in school to do your homework:

  • Recall all the past embarrassments as a result of your failure. Let that act as a motivation to get down and do your homework.
  • Keep yourself busy with reading motivation to do homework quotes. It will boost your morale and compel you to do it.
  • Associate yourself with people who love to do their homework. You will be challenged to get motivated to study.
  • Develop a positive mindset towards homework. The mentality you have towards something will determine whether you do it or not.

As with all things, it is important to be in a good state of mind when you start doing your homework. In fact, the right state of mind is the first thing you need to learn if you are wondering how to motivate yourself to do homework quickly and efficiently. When you have a good state of mind – when you think positive – you immediately become a lot more productive. You start liking what you do and don’t consider the homework a chore anymore.

Think of it this way; is there anything you would do with pleasure when you are sad and depressed? Probably not; and this applies to homework as well. Also, it really helps to not consider the homework a chore you need to do because you would get punished otherwise. If you want to learn how to motivate yourself to do homework, you need to be able to think about homework as a necessary thing that will help you advance and that will help you become better in class and in life.

Motivation To Do HomeWork

“You don’t drown by simply falling in the water. You drown by staying there.” Louis Cole.

One can, therefore, get motivated for school once again by:

  • Loving your teachers or tutors . It is a determinant of the coziness of students in school.
  • Getting involved in school activities . You will be able to feel a sense of belonging to the school and therefore feel an urge to stand by it.
  • Relating well with other students . A school is like a community in which peaceful coexistence is necessary for the motivation to study.
  • Finding pride in everything about your school .

As you may already know, most students hate homework because they associate it with a chore. Why don’t you associate homework with something interesting? You love interesting projects and would love to work with your fellow students on them. Why don’t you think about homework as an interesting project? Yes, you work alone on your school assignments, but nobody says you can’t call a friend or two and collaborate with them. One or two “colleagues” may be all the motivation to do homework you need. There are also a few tips and tricks that will help you with this quite a bit.

Everybody wants to get done with that homework fast and tune in to that favorite TV show as soon as possible. The trick is simple:

  • Gather all you need for your homework
  • Ensure the internet is at its best
  • Get rid of any distractions
  • Turn off your phone (for just that little while)

Here are some of the best tips and tricks you need to know when you want to learn how to make yourself do homework:

  • Listen to music, but not just any music . Calming, relaxing music is recommended for students who are working on their homework. Keep the volume low so that the music doesn’t bother you or those around you. Of course, you are free to use headphones if you wish. Instrumental music works best because there are no lyrics to pay attention to. Symphonies from Tchaikovsky, Beethoven and Bach are great choices.
  • Set goals and establish a reward system. Write the goals down so you don’t forget about them. Split complex assignments into smaller parts and set a goal for each part. Give yourself a reward after you finish every part, like 10 minutes off, a cookie, or even a quick video game. You will quickly learn how to be motivated to do homework with rewards.
  • Take regular breaks. If you work several hours without taking any breaks, you will quickly tire and your motivation will dwindle away. You should take a 10- to 15-minute break every hour or so. Stretch for a bit, drink some water and disconnect from your work. You’ll return to the homework refreshed and a lot more motivated.
  • Keep the consequences in mind. If you want to learn how to get motivated to do homework, you need to learn how to think about the consequences of your actions. Do you want a couple of low grades? Do you want your classmates to make jokes about you? Do you want to lose your self-esteem? Probably not; this is why you need to dedicate some time and effort to doing your homework every day. You’ll get plenty of free time after you finish it.
  • Get some rest, if needed. You won’t be in the right state of mind to do your homework with pleasure if you are tired. This means that it is a very good idea to get a good night’s sleep before you start on a complex assignment. If you feel tired, get one or two hours of rest (also known as a power nap) and you will instantly feel refreshed and ready to tackle even the most difficult project. It doesn’t take much to get motivation to do homework.

If you can’t focus , you will keep on asking yourself, “why am I bad at doing homework?” Nevertheless, this shouldn’t be the case at all. The solution lies herein:

  • Take a cup of coffee to stimulate your mind.
  • Have a change of environment for a moment.
  • A cold shower would do some good (really)
  • Listen to that favorite song for a while then get back to the homework.
  • A rest, probably 30-minute nap is recommended
  • Go to a quiet room and settle there

Yes, you can learn how to get motivated to do homework. There is no question about it that the tips listed above work for most students. However, you also need to be able to put yourself into the right state of mind to work on your school assignments. It’s never a good idea to work on them when you are depressed or very tired. Get a bit of rest instead of struggling with the homework; it will help you a lot in the long run. Also, making sure you organize your workload and plan ahead is very important. Start working on more complex project early to avoid having to rush the assignment. As you already know, rush jobs will never get you the good grades you need and deserve.

I remember one thing that motivated me to finish my homework on time ; the fact that I would never do it again as I advanced. Every day I would say to myself, “just a little bit more; everything has an end.” Verily I say to you, the trick worked, and never did I see homework as an enemy, but rather, a best friend. One with whom I knew would guarantee a bright future for me.

Another interesting tip is to enlist the support of your friends and family. Ask your friends about how they manage to do their homework on time every day. Ask your parents about how difficult homework was in their college days. You will get the motivation you need to finish all your school assignments quickly and get a lot more spare time.

How do you see it waking up at dawn when your mind is fresh and alert and then doing all your homework? Wouldn’t it augur well if you just did your homework after refreshing your mind from all the day’s work in a school?

Still can’t find enough motivation to deal with homework? Good news! Enter promo “ homework20 ” and grab your writing assignment with 20% discount!

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2 comments on “ How to Get Motivated to Do Homework: Tips and Tricks From Experts ”

THX so much for this!!!

This was a simple, short, and sweet article. On this note, you may want to include how to not get distracted while working on a computer or laptop or any other electronic device for that matter. I am guilty of this myself; whenever I have been assigned to do homework on my laptop, I like to play games and open other tabs on Google.If you could add this bit to this article, it would be greatly appreciated. Thank you so much for all the useful tips you have provided, and I can’t wait to see this portion in your article that I have suggested above!

Kaelyn Wilkins <3

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Avoiding Common Mistakes in Motivating Students to Do Math

In this excerpt from The Math Teacher’s Toolbox , the authors, veteran high school math teachers, share research on motivation.

Teenage girl doing math problems on chalkboard

Motivation—why people do what they do—affects every aspect of schooling. Without motivation, student learning becomes difficult, if not impossible. Motivated students tend to have better performance , higher self-esteem , and improved psychological well-being . Keeping motivational strategies in mind can enhance confidence to do math, which can reduce their math anxiety and lower academic achievement.

Here are some of the worst mistakes we’ve made when trying to motivate students to do math and what we’ve done to address them.

Using Fear to Motivate

Threatening students generally has a negative effect on their motivation and academic growth . Intimidating students often decreases their intrinsic motivation and causes a fear of failure . That doesn’t mean, however, that we can’t communicate frustration or disappointment. If we have a good relationship with students, saying something like “I’m feeling disappointed by what is happening now” can be an effective and appropriate motivational strategy.

We find that expressing motivation by explaining how the task will lead to a desired goal (“doing homework will help you know what types of questions will be on the test”) generally works better than browbeating students, especially by linking academic outcomes to unrelated consequences (“if you don’t do well on this test, you won’t be allowed to go to the prom”).

Stereotype Threat

In a misguided attempt to boost students’ confidence, teachers may connect their performance to a prejudice—for example, by saying that girls often struggle with math or that Asian students typically excel. This phenomenon, called stereotype threat , is a fear of confirming a stereotype about one’s gender, ethnicity, or other self-identified group. People who experience this idea worry so much about being identified with the stereotype that their academic performance suffers.

To minimize the effect of stereotype threat, we try not to imply that students’ academic performance is in any way related to their identity. Praising students for being “naturally smart” inadvertently implies that their intelligence is somehow fixed to their identity group. Instead, we promote a growth mindset —the idea that students’ intelligence can increase with additional effort and support.

We foster a sense of belonging among our students since it correlates with achievement, self-efficacy, and motivation . Making everyone in our classrooms feel welcome and encouraging students from different identity groups to interact with each other (through activities like group work) can also minimize the negative effects of feelings of isolation .

“Why Do We Need to Know This?”

During a lesson, students occasionally ask us, “Why are we learning this?” Since students usually want to know how our lesson is used in their lives, we highlight those connections whenever possible.

However, we can’t find real-world relationships for every lesson. Many topics—such as formal geometric proofs or rules of exponents—have no immediate connection outside of a math class. These lessons are important as necessary tools for larger mathematical concepts. Some of our most successful lessons involve straightforward ideas like finding a pattern. Many times, the simplest solution is the most effective one.

We find that students ask us, “Why do we need to know this?” when they get frustrated or bored with our lesson. Usually, they are really saying that they don’t understand what we’re teaching. In these situations, we first acknowledge students’ concerns and then try to determine the source of those concerns. If necessary, we come up with a clearer or simpler explanation.

Misreading Students

If we underestimate our students’ potential, we often wind up watering down our instruction by ignoring connections between topics or reducing math to calculator shortcuts and mindless drills. Unfortunately, this can erode student effort , especially for students who face multiple challenges . In our experience, students can often tell when we have less confidence in their ability to learn and react by being less interested in the lesson, which leads us to slow down even more.

Conversely, giving them tasks that are too difficult can heighten their anxiety. Students may develop perfectionist tendencies or get discouraged when they make a mistake. Not giving students appropriate support can discourage them from learning.

We recommend focusing instruction on identifying what students currently know and what they need to know, and then scaffolding instruction with appropriate techniques so they can learn independently.

In addition, we try to address any emotional concerns that can adversely affect student motivation. Getting to know students better helps us give them emotional comfort when they seem stressed. We also remind them frequently that learning to deal with failure is an important life lesson and share examples from our own lives when we encountered difficulty.

Sometimes, we mistakenly assume that students have complete control of their environment. Criticizing students for not buying an expensive graphing calculator or not doing homework assumes that they choose not to finish a task and ignores economic hardships or personal situations that serve as obstacles. They may have too many responsibilities at home or worry that they won’t be valued if they try and fail. Letting students know that we won’t humiliate them and providing adequate academic and emotional support for tasks can help students move past their fears .

Limitations to Motivation

Occasionally, despite our best efforts, we just can’t seem to motivate some students. Getting help from a guidance counselor or other school professional can be helpful since they often have experience and training to deal with challenging situations. In these cases, we find that putting too much academic pressure on students can often decrease their motivation and may make them withdraw even deeper.

Even if we can’t motivate them to learn all of the math that we’d like, we can help students develop important life skills, such as working with others and coping with adversity. Giving them a friendly greeting and showing genuine concern can build trust and eventually encourage them to open up when ready.

Copyright ©2020 by John Wiley & Sons, Inc. All rights reserved.

Stunning Motivation

Stunning Motivation

Get motivated to achieve your goals and dreams

why can't i get motivated to do my homework

Can’t Get Motivated To Do Anything? Here Are 10 Reasons Why

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Ever wonder why you can’t get motivated to do things or to stick to your plan and reach your goals?

Let’s face it, we all need the motivation to get things done . Regardless of whether it is to build a new, productive habit, or to achieve a certain career goal in your life, we need some drive to go through the journey and get it done.

And I believe that everyone has the motivation they need .

If you think that you are someone lazy and who can’t get motivated and get things done, think again.

I believe there are times when you feel so motivated that you are able to wake up at 3 am because you need to go to the airport and have your year-end vacation in a country that you have been looking forward to.

And I also believe that there are times when you are so motivated to play the game or finish a drama series that you stay up to 3 am just to do it.

So, my point is this – no one is lazy, and no one is born WITHOUT motivation.

It is all about how you manage your energy and motivation.

It is about how you can properly channel your energy and motivation to help you get things done.

And in this guide, we will be talking about 10 reasons why people can’t seem to get motivated to do anything, be it exercise, work, or lose weight.

Go through these 10 factors below and you will have a better understanding of how you think and what is stopping you from getting motivated.

And once you understand why you can’t get motivated, work on a solution, learn the tips, and apply the suggestions as I have shared below…

1. Inconsistent Belief System

why can't i get motivated to do my homework

Have you ever tried to motivate yourself but failed?

One of the most common perceptions people have about motivation is they believe that they can get motivated when they wanted to.

Take brushing teeth as an example. You do it every day without any motivation, right? Even when you just get up from the bed and feeling sleepy, you can still do it without your conscious thought.

Habits, you may say, but why it is so easy to develop that as a habit?

The answer is simple because you believe that it is necessary and it is something that you must do every day.

It is something that everyone does, and so you must do it as well.

You will do it every day without even questioning about it .

When people can’t get motivated to do their thing, it is because they believe if they do the task or the work, they will feel pain.

They associate pain with their work because of what they believe.

This explains why some people can be so committed and they are able to work 20 hours a day, while some people find it difficult to even work for just 8 hours.

Their belief systems are governing their motivation .

If you are earning $10,000 a month and are living comfortably, and you want to double your income but you can’t find the motivation to do so, it has something to do with your beliefs, not motivation.

To put it simply, when you don’t believe that something needs to be done, you will have a hard time, struggling within yourself to come up with motivation.

The action you want to perform must be consistent with your belief system .

Do you think you will buy a lottery ticket if you don’t believe that you stand a chance to win? You won’t, you don’t even bother about it.

When a work, or task, or a goal doesn’t align with your beliefs, you will find it hard to stay motivated for it.

Why do you think everyone (except for disabled people) in this world walks?

Why do parents encourage their toddlers to learn to walk even when they keep falling down many times?

Because we believe that walking is the norm. It is something that everyone does, hence, parents encourage their children to walk. No motivation required .

How Successful People’s Beliefs Make Them Motivated

Elon Musk is famous for his insane long working hours. He works 80 to 90 hours and sometimes even 120 hours a week. The “20-hour daily work routine to be successful” is popularized by Musk.

Now, to Musk, this extreme work ethic is normal.

This is why Musk didn’t question whether he should feel motivated for the work or not, he just believes it, and he does it.

And there are many others who have the same beliefs.

People like Kobe Bryant, who was known for waking up at 4 am for training and making 700 to 1,000 shots every day.

In one of his interviews , Kobe Bryant said that if he could grind and train more hours than most, then there will be no way his competitors can catch up to him. Watch this YouTube video below:

He believed that training is necessary, and he believed that if he could train harder and longer hours than the rest, then he would be the best, which he did.

The same goes for Arnold Schwarzenegger. When Arnold was into his bodybuilding career, he was obsessed with working out in the gym.

He found it to be exciting to sweat and grind in the gym while others find it to be hard, tough, and difficult.

And that’s the belief that kept Arnold training hard in the gym without questioning himself if he needed to do it.

Therefore, if you want to get motivated for the long-term and achieve outstanding success in what you do, you need to buy into the belief that what you do is necessary and normal .

You have to believe your goals and your dreams are possible and very achievable. And you have to believe that the actions you are going to take are normal and compulsory.

Changing your belief system can be a huge topic by itself. And that is why I suggest you read this article from Lonerwolf to understand more.

2. Feeling Overwhelming

why can't i get motivated to do my homework

This is a common factor that makes people want to procrastinate. Imagine if you have 100 items on your to-do list and you must get them all done by today, you will feel overwhelmed and wanted to procrastinate.

The same goes if the goal that you set is unrealistic to you. Most people learned that they should set big goals that excite them, which is good.

However, big goals often come with a totally different game plan and they require you to do something out of your comfort zone.

The problem comes when people set big goals, but they are not doing something different. Their action plans did not justify the results they want.

More importantly, they don’t believe that they can accomplish the big goals and as a result, their mind sabotages the idea of taking action because they know that what they want is not possible to achieve.

Never fall into this trap.

Never let your actions or the task overwhelms you.

When the task is too heavy, you will never want to do it.

Just like achieving success, it is not an easy route. And people fail to achieve the success they want because when things are tough, they tend to give up and quit.

Furthermore, you will have to do it for a sustained period of time, which only makes it even more difficult.

More is not always merrier. You should choose to focus on doing the important tasks rather than doing more tasks .

Do the work that gets you results, not just any work.

Multitasking Is Not Going To Work

Another killing mistake most people make is that they try to multitask.

You are not getting more done when you multitask . When you multitask, you are splitting your focus thin and your brain has to switch back-and-forth between tasks.

If you don’t believe me, just try to focus on two things at once. For example, try to read a book and talk on the phone at the same time.

Can you do that? No, you can’t.

Chances are, your brain can only focus on just one task. When you talk on the phone, you will have to put down your book. When you read, you will stop talking on the phone.

This is especially true when it comes to doing tasks that require thinking and uses your creativity.

So stop multitasking and start focusing on one thing at a time .

Multitasking, or to put it correctly, switching from task to task will consume a lot of your willpower and energy. You will feel tired quickly and you will lose your focus.

This is why when there are too many things to do at the same time, you will feel overwhelmed and tend to procrastinate.

How To Prevent Feeling Overwhelming

Here’s what you need to do, read this article . I have covered the concept of ‘how to eat an elephant’ and how to deal with overwhelming tasks.

Basically, your goals, your tasks, your actions, and your dreams can be broken down into bite-size steps. And all you need to do is to break them down into actionable steps and then act on those small steps.

Lao Tzu said it perfectly when it comes to this:

“The journey of a thousand miles begins with one step.” Lao Tzu

Every success, every goal, every dream and everything that you want in life can be broken down into simple and actionable steps.

And this is exactly what you need to do to prevent yourself from feeling overwhelming.

When you turn a big goal into small action steps that you can actually act upon, things will become easy.

Now, once you have broken down your big tasks or big goals into smaller actionable steps, apply the Pareto 80/20 Rule and do those tasks that are important first.

You want to be effective here, so identify those steps that will give you the most result and do them first.

3. Loss Of Meaning

why can't i get motivated to do my homework

Why do you think most people can’t get motivated most of the time? The reason is simple, they have lost the meaning behind the work, the task or their goals.

A lot of people follow the crowd and set goals such as owning an expensive car, but that is not what they truly want deep inside.

And when they set a goal to own an expensive car too, they will find it difficult to get motivated because the goal of owning an expensive car did not serve their inner purpose .

You can see this phenomenon clearly after a few weeks or months down the road. When people first started out, they feel motivated and they have the energy to take massive action.

They announce to the world what they wanted to accomplish and they started strong.

However, things started to change after a few weeks or months. They started to feel stuck when they don’t get the result. They feel dejected and they can’t find the motivation anymore.

When their goals don’t motivate them anymore, they tend to procrastinate and eventually, they give up.

If this is what is happening to you, probably, you have lost the meaning behind your goals for what you want to achieve.

Have you ever wondered why people like Mark Zuckerberg, Richard Branson, Elon Musk, Walt Disney, or Steve Jobs did not set “things” goals? They don’t do things because they want to own a luxury car or a big house by the sea.

I don’t think Mark Zuckerberg started Facebook because he wanted to be a billionaire or because he wanted to drive a sports car.

The same goes to Richard Branson and Elon Musk.

Extraordinary people did not do it for the physical materials or shiny objects. Instead, they do it because they want to serve their inner purpose.

Shiny objects such as money, fast cars, big houses, yacht, etc, are just the byproducts from your hard work. They are just rewards that you get from creating values to other people’s lives.

Therefore, if you find it hard to get motivated, most likely you will have to revisit your purpose.

Ask yourself:

  • Why do you do it in the first place?
  • What are the purposes of your goals?
  • Why do you want to achieve this goal?

Giving Your Dream, Goals, and Life A Meaning

The solution to this has to come from within you. Only you will know why you want to live your dreams. Only you can tell what is the reason behind achieving what you want.

Some people are doing it for the passion. Some people are doing it because they wanted to serve others. Some people are doing it because they want to make their parents and family proud. Some people are doing it because they believe that they can make the world a better place and it has to start from them.

So why are you doing what you do? Why do you want to achieve your goals and live your dreams?

If you are doing it for the money, why do you need money?

Keep asking yourself the ‘why’ question. You will eventually get an answer from within.

One of the best techniques I learned from the book, Millionaire Success Habits by Dean Graziosi, is called the 7-Levels Deep exercise .

millionaire success habits

In this exercise, you get a partner to ask you the why question 7 times. It simply means that you will have to drill down 7 levels deep to discover your true purpose.

This exercise is especially powerful when you do it with a partner and do it seriously. You will discover and come up with an answer that is buried deep within you.

4. Getting Too Comfortable

why can't i get motivated to do my homework

When you become too comfortable, it becomes difficult to get motivated. Your habit plays an important role here.

Imagine if you have been lazy for the past 20 years, and all of a sudden, you need to change your environment and work harder than before. It will be extremely difficult for you to get motivated to change.

You have been conditioned to stay that way for years and now you have to change, and it will be extremely difficult to do.

Hence, don’t let yourself being too comfortable for too long . Don’t stay in your comfort zone. You have to grow and expand from time to time.

When things become too comfortable, you will become afraid to change . In fact, you don’t want to change.

This is exactly what is happening to most people out there. They are getting used to their daily routine and when something happened and they needed to change to a new approach, they complain and they blame.

Because they don’t use to challenging themselves, they don’t want to change.

Change Is Inevitable

Please understand that change is inevitable and there is nothing you can do to stop change .

Think about it, 20 years ago, you were reading information like this from books. Now, you are reading it from your computer or mobile phone. Things have changed, don’t they?

So if you don’t change or if you don’t improve yourself, you will become outdated and obsolete.

The new guys will come in and get the promotion instead of you. Your competitor will take away your market and you will be out of business.

Businesses that did not innovate and improve will eventually go out of business. The same goes for you.

You need to learn to challenge yourself, do something fresh and learn new things to stay motivated all the time.

Get Away From Your Comfort Zone

In order to get yourself motivated, you must learn to challenge and stretch yourself. Get away from your comfort zone.

“Everything you want is just outside your comfort zone.” Robert Allen

Here’s what you can do:

  • Read a book or two every month
  • Try out a new restaurant each week
  • Do something that you have never tried before – visit the museum, volunteer to help out, visit the orphanage, etc.
  • Travel overseas at least once a year
  • Learn a new hobby – cook, sing, swim, dance, etc.
  • Do sports and stretch yourself
  • Set a stretch goal that pushes you
  • Do something you are afraid to do – giving a speech, say sorry to someone, tell someone that you love him/her, join a toastmaster club, etc.
  • Learn internet marketing and start an online business

So, don’t let yourself be too comfortable in life. It is time to stretch yourself and make your life fun.

Get out of your comfort zone and push yourself from time to time.

  • Why It Is Important to Step Outside of Your Comfort Zone
  • 15 Ways How to Step Out of Your Comfort Zone and Live Great

5. Lack Of The “Push” Factor

why can't i get motivated to do my homework

Most people find it hard to get motivated because they lack the ‘push’ factor. If you are living comfortably and are earning $20,000 a month, it may be difficult for you to find the motivation to grow higher because you are doing well all this while.

For most people, they are alright even if they don’t achieve their goals. It’s not a life or death matter.

For example, if your goal is to earn an additional $2,000 a month, and if there is nothing there to push you, most likely, you will find it difficult to get motivated to do it.

Simple, you are doing all okay and even if you did not earn the additional $2,000, you will still be doing alright .

This is why when you read the biography of successful people, most of the time, you will discover that they are being motivated by desperation .

  • Brian Tracy has been living in poverty when he was young. He went from worrying about his next meal to making it big in his sales career.
  • Tony Robbins was once overweight and worked as a janitor in a hotel. But due to his desperation to change his life, he transformed himself into a success coach. He even wrote down his goals and the things he wanted to achieve in life in the back of an old Russian map while traveling.
  • Tom Watson was fired from a company called NCR. And that led him to join IBM and became a CEO there.
  • Do you know that Michael Jordan was rejected by his high school basketball team because they said he lacked the skill? But Jordan was desperate and he made it up with intense training. The rest, they say, was history.

When you are in a dire situation, or when you have no other option, you will eventually find a way and do it.

You need a push from someone or something .

Making A Public Commitment

Sharing your goals or what you will do with the public is one of the most powerful ways to increase your commitment to what you say you will do.

When you announce to the people around you that you are going to do something, you are putting yourself on the line .

Imagine if you tell your friends, “Hey, you know what, I’m going to lose 10 pounds this month and I’m going to hit the gym 3 times a week for an hour from 630am to 730am.”

Once you have done that, your commitment level will increase because you will feel stress as others may check on your progress.

Better yet, you can make it a challenge by saying, “And if I don’t lose 10 pounds by the end of the month, I’m going to give you $200.”

How’s that for a push factor?

Of course, you don’t have to share your goals or your progress with the whole world. You can just share them with people who will support you.

Get an accountability partner so that your partner will check your progress from time to time.

Plus, your accountability partner can remind you if you are doing the work.

Ever wonder why every successful athlete has a coach?

So that their coaches can remind them, keep them on track, push them, and make sure they improve and achieve their targets…

  • Tony Robbins was once a student of Jim Rohn.
  • Steve Jobs mentored Mark Zuckerberg for many years when Zuckerberg just began his entrepreneurial journey.
  • After the young Warren Buffett read the book, The Intelligent Investor at age 19, he went to Columbia Business School to study under the author, Benjamin Graham, who became Buffett’s lifelong mentor.

You can’t succeed alone, you need to get a push from someone or something.

6. There’s No Fun Doing It

why can't i get motivated to do my homework

When there are all work and no fun, you will never feel motivated to do it. I don’t think that people are lazy; they just don’t know how to channel their energy and motivation into the right place .

  • Some people find it difficult to wake up at 6am for work. While they can wake up at 530am and feeling excited for a game of golf.
  • Some people feel tired and exhausted when they reach home after work. And they don’t have the motivation to work on any other things anymore except watching their favorite drama.
  • Some people are able to stay up late just to play computer games or watch their favorite TV shows. Why is that?

Successful people turn their work into their passion, and this is why they are able to feel the excitement and have all the motivation to work.

“Choose a job you love, and you will never have to work a day in your life.” Confucius

Most people dreaded to work because they don’t find it fun or it is not something that they love doing.

However, when your work is fun and when it is something that you love doing, you will have all the energy to do it.

So find the fun in your work .

Inject The Fun Factor Into Your Work

If you can’t find the passion in your work, don’t worry, you can still inject the fun into it.

Going to the gym alone can be boring, so make it fun by inviting a friend to go with you. Doing your household chore can be boring; you can play your favorite songs while doing it.

You just need to be creative and find the fun while doing it . I find it more exciting when I’m exercising at home while watching the TV.

You can choose to work your work by playing background music like what I did when I’m writing this article. You can find a partner or a group of friends and do the work together, so it will be more fun.

This goes on to explain why most successful people like Richard Branson, Steve Jobs, Tony Hsieh of Zappos, and many others started with a group of friends.

When you are doing it together, it is more fun and you will be more motivated for the work.

But when you are doing it alone, who knows if you will stay committed and get the work done, because you are the only one that is accountable for your own success. There are no others there to monitor your progress.

Thus, find the fun , do it in groups or get yourself a partner when possible.

  • Why Passion is Important for Success
  • 7 Clear Signs That You Have Discovered Your Passion in Life
  • How To Live Life With Passion And Purpose

7. Stuck In A Slumped Mood

why can't i get motivated to do my homework

When you are stuck in a slumped mood, it will be difficult to get back up.

For example, when you are disappointed or when you are frustrated, it is tough for you to stay motivated and focused on your goals.

You can’t help but keep thinking about the situation .

For example, if you just got fired or your girlfriend wanted to break up with you, most likely, you won’t be able to concentrate at work.

Sometimes the slumped state may stay for days and even weeks.

Break The Pattern

When you are in a lousy state or mood, to get out of it, you have to break the pattern. There are two ways how you can do this.

First, you can change your physiology . You change the way you breathe, the way you walk, talk or sit and your facial expression.

Our motions can affect our emotions .

When we are feeling sad, our body posture will be in a certain position. And to get out of the sad emotion, all we need to do is to change our physiology.

This is why people often said, “Fake it until you make it” . Try to look up at the ceiling and then make a big silly grin on your face. And then think about negative things that make you sad.

Can you do it?

If you hold on to your happy facial expression, you can NEVER feel the sadness. When you feel sad, your facial expression has to change. But if you put up a happy facial expression, you can’t feel sad.

That’s how our body works. When you are feeling sleepy, stand up, jump for 5 times and then do a fist pump and shout “Yes” out loud.

The sleepiness state will be gone. If you don’t believe it, just do it right now. And you will see what I mean.

The second way to break our pattern is to change our focus .

When you listen to sad songs and keep thinking about sad things in your head, how would you feel then?

Obviously, you will feel sad. What if you listen to happy and uplifting music and then you keep thinking about moments that make you happy?

Almost instantly, you will feel happy.

Why is this so? Whatever you choose to focus on, you will get it. Where the focus goes, energy flows .

If you think about the sweet moments you have with your lover, you will feel loved. Conversely, if you think about how bad your boss has been treating you, you will feel a totally different way.

So choose to focus and think positively all the time .

If you think that you can’t get motivated, focus and think about your victories .

Think about things that make you feel successful. What previous achievements you have accomplished? What do you feel great about in life right now?

Hence, the next time you feel like you can’t get motivated to do anything, change your physiology, change your motion and change your focus.

  • 10 Amazing Ways How to Improve Your Focus
  • How to Stay Focused on Your Goals

8. You Are Getting Distracted

why can't i get motivated to do my homework

When you always get distracted, you can’t get motivated and stay focused in your work.

Distraction is one of the most common reasons people fail to stay motivated for long.

When they just wanted to build up their momentum, someone knocks on the door or their phone rings. They get distracted and they will have to rebuild their momentum all over again .

So don’t get distracted.

When you are working on your computer and you don’t have to get online, then don’t. Disconnect from the internet or turn off the wifi.

When you are reading and doing research, try to lock yourself in the room so that nobody can distract you.

Distraction is a big and common killer of productivity.

According to this article published by Time , we now have an attention span lower than the goldfish. We tend to lose our focus just after eight seconds while goldfish is able to focus at about nine seconds.

Therefore, if you don’t manage the distractions around you, they will destroy your life.

With the advancement of technology and we can easily connect to each other through social media and our phones these days, distractions are everywhere.

When you want to start your work, your colleague will look for you. When you want to do research on the internet, you can’t help but check on Facebook for updates. When you want to write an article, you receive notification from one of the Apps on your phone. You get distracted too often.

If you can’t stay focused, you can’t get motivated for long.

Practice Active Time Blocking

This is one of the most powerful productivity techniques that everyone should learn and master. If there is one skill you need to learn to be productive, this is it.

When you time-block your tasks such as making cold calls from 9 am to 11 am, then that’s it. Within these 2 hours, you will do nothing else except cold calling.

You will have to reject other people who come to you and reschedule other activities. Better yet, lock yourself in your room and put a “Do not disturb” sign on your door.

Time blocking allows you to get the most important task done without distraction .

It helps you get into the flow and more importantly, it increases your commitment towards the task that you promise yourself that you are going to do.

Furthermore, when you actively time block, what you are actually doing is that you are planning your day. You know from what time to what time you need to get your tasks done. It makes you more discipline too.

Thus, learn to actively time block your work throughout your days.

Remember, don’t allow any distraction whenever you are time blocking and working on your project. Or else you will destroy the purpose of time blocking.

I have published a complete guide about time-blocking, you can read it here, Time Block: The Technique For Superb Focus And Productivity .

9. Low Energy State – Mentally And Physically

why can't i get motivated to do my homework

Another reason most people can’t get motivated to do anything in life is due to their low energy state, both physically and mentally.

So far, we have been talking about managing our mental energy through focusing on the right thoughts, finding the fun factor, creating the commitment, and also how to prevent overwhelming.

And when it comes to getting motivated, the first thing that goes into most people’s minds is that motivation is all about managing their mental power, which is just one part of the equation.

If you want to get and stay motivated all the time, you need to maintain your physical energy as well.

How can you get motivated and driven to do your work when you only sleep for 2 hours a day? You can’t focus when you don’t have enough sleep and you feel sleepy every moment.

One thing I learn from Tony Robbins is that success starts with our body and health . You don’t want to be the richest person in the graveyard.

So to stay motivated, and to go through your day beaming with energy, you need to get enough rest.

Hence, learn to manage your energy .

There is no point to work for 20 hours when you can’t focus and can’t produce great work. It is not about the quantity, it is about the quality.

I’d rather spend 3 quality hours a day to work on my goals with motivation than to spend 18 hours on it but feeling tired, sleepy, and can’t focus all the time.

“If I only had an hour to chop down a tree, I would spend the first 45 minutes sharpening my axe.” Abraham Lincoln

If you want to produce outstanding work, you need to maintain your energy level. And here are some suggestions on how you can keep your energy high.

1) Get Enough Sleep

Research has shown that on average, we require 7 to 9 hours of sleep.

Sometimes we may feel like the less we sleep, the more time we have to do our work, wrong.

To perform at your best and to work at optimum productivity, you need to get enough sleep each day.

Thus, make sure you sleep for at least 7 hours a day.

2) Use Power Nap

A power nap is a short nap about 10 to 30 minutes. When you are feeling tired in the afternoon, try to power nap to replenish your energy. It will make you feel refresh and you will then be able to focus on your work again.

Don’t nap more than 30 minutes. You don’t want to go into deep sleep mode where when you wake up, you feel groggy and even more tired.

3) Exercise

To maintain your physical health level, you must exercise. There are plenty of benefits you can get from exercise .

Our bodies are created to move. If you sit and face the computer the whole day, you don’t get to move much.

Over the long-term, this may cause you serious health issue. So get your body moving, exercise and get sweat.

In fact, if you study successful people like Richard Branson, Xerox CEO Ursula Burns, Jack Dorsey of Twitter, AOL CEO Tim Armstrong, etc., you will notice that most of them spend their morning exercising.

If these extraordinary people who are extremely busy find that exercising is important, don’t you think you should do the same too?

I suggest you read this book: What The Most Successful People Do Before Breakfast . You will discover a lot of interesting insights on how successful people manage their mornings and get the most out of their day.

10. Focus On The Wrong Thing

why can't i get motivated to do my homework

When it comes to time to work, do you think about how difficult or boring the task, or do you think about how exciting the work can be?

Most people find it tough to get motivated to do their work because they focus on the wrong thing. They think about the difficulties, how boring the work can be, and they focus on the negative side of things.

Motivated and productive people, on the other hand, focus and think about the bright side.

They imagine getting the work done, feeling satisfied, and having fun doing the work with their partner or colleague.

Like what I have mentioned above, where the focus goes, energy flows . When you imagine how difficult the task is, you will feel overwhelmed and you don’t want to do the work.

When you imagine the task as being boring, almost instantly, you increase your resistance and you want to procrastinate on it.

Choose To Delay Gratification

Activities such as watching the TV, playing games, checking updates on social media, and sleep more than you need, will give you instant gratification. You feel good when doing it, but only for the short-term.

This short-term reward will never stay for long. Activities that don’t give you instant gratification usually will give you the long-term reward you want .

Imagine if you want to lose weight by exercising in the gym. You can choose to do it, but the result will not come to you that fast.

Or you can choose to procrastinate, watch your favorite drama, play computer games, or do any other thing that gives you instant gratification but will not amount to much in the future.

Here’s what you need to do – focus on the long-term reward . Choose to think about the future result that you want.

Focus on the future. Think about having the slim body that your friends admire, rather than thinking about how boring it is to go to the gym and choose to have fun playing games.

Read: Why Delayed Gratification is Important to Your Success

Having no motivation to do your work is normal, but if you don’t do anything to solve it and let it becomes your habit, it will destroy your life.

Motivation may not last, but it is one of the most important factors that will determine if you will live a successful life and achieve your dreams.

So you have learned about the 10 reasons why people can’t get motivated to do anything, did you manage to discover yours?

Let me know what you think about this article in the comment section below.

Cheers, Shawn Lim

By Shawn Lim

Hi there, this is Shawn. I inspire people to achieve their goals and dreams and to reach for higher success in life. If you want to learn more about me, kindly go to the About page. By the way, have you downloaded your FREE copy of The 90-90-1 Rule ? Don't forget to do so. Cheers. :)

Related Post

Every step counts: how progress tracking fuels student motivation, how to motivate yourself to write a college essay, why discovering your life path is vital for sustaining motivation, 6 thoughts on “can’t get motivated to do anything here are 10 reasons why”.

Great article Shawn.

Most people lose motivation because they don’t have a strong Why. People are just following the flow, the crowd, and trends. It is vital to have our own personal Why, doing this will give us long-lasting motivation.

Shawn, Great article! I feel better already. You have motivated me to ask the” why.” It may be painful but the freedom that will come is more than worth it. I will be back to read more of your articles! Thanks A Million, Sandra

Hi Sandra, Great to hear that. Yes, find out your why and what’s the reason behind what you do. Let your purpose become the fuel that continues to motivate and drive you forward. Cheers.

That is an excellent article. I find myself feeling really lonely when I do work around the house like fixing appliances or other things that take more concentration than daily work. This past year I have let things go much longer than usual. Thanks for this so that I can maybe find my way back to what is normal for me…pushing to get things done.

You lost me at the first grammar error. How can I possibly expect results from someone who doesn’t even care enough to have their product go through a basic edit.

Hi! I love how informative and great your articles are. Can you recommend any other blogs that share blogs that share information on Spiritual Awakening or spirituality in general? Thanks a lot!

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Home / Expert Articles / Child Behavior Problems / Laziness & Motivation

Motivating the Unmotivated Child

By james lehman, msw.

Unmotivated teenage boy staring blankly

Over the years, many parents have asked me why their kids aren’t motivated and what they can do about it. How can you get your child to be more motivated? To do better in school? To even go to school?

The important thing to remember is this: your child is motivated. They’re just motivated to resist you and others when they do not want to do something. The key is to learn how to turn their negative motivation into a positive one.

Lack of Motivation is a Form of Resistance

When kids won’t get out of bed, won’t do their homework or school assignments, or won’t get involved in activities, it’s important for parents to realize that there is motivation in the child. But the motivation is to resist . The motivation is to do things their way, not yours. The motivation is to retain power.

When kids feel powerless, they try to feel powerful by withholding. A child or teenager who feels very powerless will stay in bed, not go to school, avoid homework, sit on the couch, and withhold overall involvement because it gives her a sense of being in control.

To the parent, the behavior looks completely out of control. But the child sees it as the only way to have control over what’s going on around him.

You’ll see it when you ask your child a question and he doesn’t answer, but you know he heard you. What’s that all about? That’s a child withholding an answer to feel powerful. When he says, “I don’t have to answer you if I don’t want to,” you see it as a lack of motivation. He sees it as a way to win control over you.

All Kids are Motivated by Something

I want to be clear about this point: everyone is motivated. The question is, motivated to do what? If a child looks like he’s not motivated, you have to look at what he’s accomplishing and assume that this is what he’s motivated to do.

So part of the solution is getting him to be motivated to do something else. To assume that the child is unmotivated is an ineffective way of looking at it. He is motivated. He’s simply motivated to do nothing. In this case, doing nothing means resisting and holding back to exercise control over you.

Kids Resist Because They Lack Problem-Solving Skills

The child who uses resistance as a form of control lacks both social skills and problem-solving skills.

They don’t have the social skills to know how to talk to other people, how to be friendly, and how to feel comfortable with themselves. Also, they don’t have the problem-solving skills to figure out what people want from them, how to deal with other people’s behavior, and how to meet expectations and demands.

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These are basic skills we all have to learn in order to be successful as adults.

If continually resisting is how a child tries to solve problems, then parents will have a hard time until they teach the child how to solve problems appropriately.

The first step in teaching kids problem-solving skills is to understand that these kids are not helpless victims. Instead, they’re simply trying to solve problems in an ineffective manner.

Don’t Argue or Fight With Your Child About Motivation

Very often these kids are motivated by the power struggle. They find different ways to have that struggle with their parents. The job of the parents, therefore, is to find other ways for the child to solve the problem that’s causing the power struggle.

But if parents don’t have those other ways then the power struggle continues with no end in sight.

If you’re fighting day after day with a kid who won’t get out of bed, you’re never going to solve that problem. Because even if he gets out of bed then he won’t brush his teeth. And even if he brushes his teeth then he won’t comb his hair. Or he won’t wear clean clothes, or he won’t do his homework.

Understand that when you yell at your child for lack of motivation, you’re giving their resisting behavior power. So don’t yell. Don’t argue. Don’t give their resisting behavior power.

I understand that parents get frustrated—that’s normal. And sometimes you will lose your calm, even when you know better.

The point I want to make here is that yelling and fighting won’t solve the problem. If you’re yelling and fighting over these issues, you’re giving him more power in the struggle, and you don’t want to do that. Here’s what to do instead.

Be Clear, Calm, and Give Consequences for Your Child’s Behavior

Make the situation clear for the child. Use “I” words. Say the following:

“I want you to get up out of bed and get ready for school.”

“I want you to do your homework now.”

Then leave the bedroom. If the kid doesn’t do it, then there should be consequences. There should be accountability.

If your child says, “I don’t care about the consequences,” ignore her. She will tell you she doesn’t care just as a way to feel in control. Or, she may not care now, but as consequences get applied consistently, she will eventually see compliance as a better alternative to consequences.

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Therefore, give consequences. And don’t worry if the kid doesn’t like it. You are not your child’s friend, you’re their parent.

Related content: Unmotivated Child? 6 Ways to Get Your Child Going

By the way, if your child doesn’t get out of bed, he shouldn’t be doing anything else. He shouldn’t get to play video games. He shouldn’t spend four hours in front of the TV. If he’s too sick to go to school, he shouldn’t be going out of the house. These rules should be set and enforced consistently.

Give Effective Consequences

Understanding what is and what is not an effective consequence is critical. The right consequences actually motivate your child to good behavior. They put you back in control and teach your child how to problem-solve, giving your child the skills needed to be a successful adult.

Know that effective consequences are not punishments. Indeed, I say all the time that you can’t punish your child into behaving better.

All parents should read my article on how to give kids consequences that work . And take a look at my sample video from The Complete Guide to Consequences .

Let Your Child Experience Natural Consequences

I would always tell parents in my office that you have to have the courage to let her experience the consequences of her behavior. It takes a lot of courage for a parent to step back and say:

“Okay, you’re not going to do your homework, and you’re going to get the grades that reflect that.”

But in these cases, it can help to let the child experience the natural consequences of resistance. You don’t let the kid watch TV. You say:

“Homework time is from six to eight. And if you don’t want to do your homework during that time, that’s fine. But you can’t go on the computer, you can’t play games, and you can’t watch TV. If you choose not to do your homework, that’s your choice. And if you fail, that’s your choice too.”

Remember, natural consequences are an important part of life. That’s why we have speeding tickets. A speeding ticket is a natural consequence. If you go too fast, the policeman stops you and gives you a ticket. He doesn’t follow you home to make sure you don’t speed anymore. He lets you go. It’s your job to stop and take responsibility. If you don’t, you’re going to get another ticket fifteen minutes later.

Natural consequences help people take responsibility, and they can be used to help kids take responsibility for things like going to school, participating in class, and doing homework.

Don’t Forget to Use Rewards

Along with the plan to let her experience the natural consequences of her decisions, build in rewards for success if she does make the right decision.

For example, if my son failed a test, there was no punishment. But if he passed, there was a reward. It was very simple. We rewarded A’s and B’s. We didn’t take anything away for C, we just didn’t reward it.

So my son eventually strived to have A’s all the time. So with kids who resist, it’s important to have a rewards system as well as a consequence system.

Be Patient and Persistent

Calmly and consistently using effective consequences is your fastest and best way to get your child motivated. Just be patient and persistent as consequences do their job and your child begins to learn better problem-solving skills. And know that the vast majority of kids come around and get motivated once they are held accountable in a meaningful way.

Related content: Motivating Underachievers: 9 Steps to Take When Your Child Says “I Don’t Care”

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About James Lehman, MSW

James Lehman, who dedicated his life to behaviorally troubled youth, created The Total Transformation® , The Complete Guide to Consequences™ , Getting Through To Your Child™ , and Two Parents One Plan™ , from a place of professional and personal experience. Having had severe behavioral problems himself as a child, he was inspired to focus on behavioral management professionally. Together with his wife, Janet Lehman, he developed an approach to managing children and teens that challenges them to solve their own problems without hiding behind disrespectful, obnoxious or abusive behavior. Empowering Parents now brings this insightful and impactful program directly to homes around the globe.

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I wish it was this easy. It's not that simple I've read what you wrote here and I don't think you have teenager's because it's eazy as you say

Sandra Sometimes the lack of motivation is a sign of something deeper - fear and shame felt because of failing grades - and so the child enters denial and resistance mode.

Emma Same here. I hate that the school requires the use of the laptop. It is nothing but a distraction and you can't take it away because they need it for school. The closest we've come to a solution is parental control software.

Tracy I have the same situation with my son. Ignores homework or any other responsibilities, bedroom is a disaster. Can't babysit all day, I am a single mom and I work full time. He knows how much this upsets me yet he does nothing to fix it. I take xbox, pc More power cords away, NOTHING motivates this kid.

Dad.com The issue with parents right now is that they have the same issue of all assuming their child’s goal is to fight them and be rebellious. A lot of kids who are struggling right now would love to pass and work hard and get good grades, but there are many More factors such as depression, low self-esteem and confidence, and the reaction, the relationship, and the treatment from the parents that greatly effect a child's motivation and perspective. Stop using punishment as a way to help your kid, use positive re-enforcement, and let then understand that what they’re going through isn’t their fault, they didn’t choose to be depressed, stressed, or have little to no motivation. Try and be helpful and realize that they are the ones carrying more emotional baggage then you can imagine.

Hyporeal Agree with some other comments here re consequences - they made difficult situations much much worse. No tv? She turned it on anyway. Confiscated phone/guitar - ransacked the house & took my keys in order to find them. Eventually, at age 24 she was diagnosed with severe ADHD, & More I realised those consequences would have produced anxiety in her worse than the original requests.

This. I'm already late for work every day (I take him to school) I can't sit at home with him all day every day.

He does have underlying issues (depression, anxiety), but 'nothing works' so he won't even try anything anymore - medication, therapy, exercise.

I'm at my wits' end and it's to the point that by the time he gets dropped off, I'm practically in tears, but have to get it together so that I can go to work and do what I need to do.

Emma Certainly it's important to rule out clinical anxiety and depression. But it appears to me that absolutely everything these days is being blamed on anxiety and depression and we are too quick to medicate and relieve children of their responsibilities.

Melissa382 Thank you for this I hope more parents see this.

Emma Agree 100%.

Janelle383 Maybe your child is depressed or something. You never know what really goes on in a teen’s mind.

Thanks for taking the time to put this article together to support parents. This is something I spend a lot of time also doing. I would love to be able to use your work as a reference for the families I come in contact with. The above article leaves me with a question that I feel would come up if I used it; "If the key is to avoid the power struggle, how do I then avoid the power struggle that would ensue from implementing the consequence?" Many of the struggles people have result from the secondary behaviour that follows the logical (as opposed to natural) consequence implementation. I look forward to hearing your strategies for this next step. Kindest Regards

Emma Same question here. And how can natural consequences work when they are not immediate? A 14-year-old has trouble understanding that missing homework assignments, being lazy with schoolwork, and not studying will impact his future. His immediate natural consequence is lower grades, but what if he doesn't care because he can't More see how this affects him in the future?

Txmomma Yes I have the same issue. In response to a consequence he break things, slams stuff, locks me out screams and yells. He doesn’t care if he gets bad grades. He doesn’t care if he fails or has to repeat a grade.

Responses to questions posted on EmpoweringParents.com are not intended to replace qualified medical or mental health assessments. We cannot diagnose disorders or offer recommendations on which treatment plan is best for your family. Please seek the support of local resources as needed. If you need immediate assistance, or if you and your family are in crisis, please contact a qualified mental health provider in your area, or contact your statewide crisis hotline.

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Disrespect... defiance... backtalk... lack of motivation...

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Backtalk... complaints... arguments... attitude... just plain ignoring you

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IMAGES

  1. Top 10+ Tips: How to get motivated to do Homework

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  2. 8 Effective Ways To Get Motivated To Do Homework

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  5. 7 EFFECTIVE WAYS TO GET MOTIVATED TO DO HOMEWORK

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  6. How To Get Motivated To Do Homework

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VIDEO

  1. Homework Motivation Hacks

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COMMENTS

  1. How to Get Things Done When You Have No Motivation

    The five steps below can help you overcome the roadblock. 1. Accurately diagnose your feelings. Many other emotions masquerade as low motivation. If you accurately diagnose your emotions, the path ...

  2. What to Do When You Have No Motivation

    Write 500 words, and then take a 10-minute break. Eat one piece of chocolate after 30 minutes of work. Write one page a day, and then remind yourself that when you're done, you'll have free time to do whatever you want. Work for 20 minutes, and then spend 5 minutes checking social media.

  3. 3 Ways to Find Motivation to Do Homework

    1. Reward yourself when you meet a homework goal. Rewards can be a powerful motivator! Whenever you accomplish a goal—even a little one—take a moment to reward yourself. Your rewards don't have to be anything elaborate or fancy.

  4. 6 ways to build motivation to do your schoolwork now that you're forced

    1. Guard your time. You do not need large amounts of time to be productive. Instead, be intentional and focused in short blocks where you can work without interruption. Protect these open times by ...

  5. How to Do Homework: 15 Expert Tips and Tricks

    You finish one episode, then decide to watch another even though you've got SAT studying to do. It's just more fun to watch people make scones. D. Start the episode, but only catch bits and pieces of it because you're reading Twitter, cleaning out your backpack, and eating a snack at the same time. 5.

  6. 30 Tips to Stop Procrastinating and Find Motivation to Do Homework

    Do weekly filing of your loose papers, notes, and old homework. Throw away all the papers and notes you no longer need. 23. Stop saying "I have to" and start saying "I choose to.". When you say things like "I have to write my essay" or "I have to finish my science assignment," you'll probably feel annoyed.

  7. 22 Ways to Get Motivated to Study

    Sit at a separate table from your friend so you don't bother each other too much. Consider making your study space warm and inviting so you look forward to spending time there. Decorate the walls with photos of you and your friends, place a cheerful house plant on your desk, and choose a comfy chair to sit in. 5.

  8. 3 Ways to Get Homework Done when You Don't Want To

    2. Take 15-minute breaks. Every 45 minutes, take a break and walk away from your study area. [7] Breaks are the time to get your reward, to use the bathroom or get a glass of water, and to move a little. Taking a break can give your brain a short rest from your work so you come back feeling refreshed and energized.

  9. How to Motivate Yourself to Do Homework

    To motivate yourself to do homework, set clear, achievable goals, create a distraction-free study space, and establish a regular routine. Use a timer for focused work sessions, reward yourself after completing tasks, and maintain a positive mindset. Remember to take care of your health and seek help if needed.

  10. How to Study When You've Lost Motivation: 8 Sharp Tips to Get Back on

    Teach each other. In groups of two, three, or four, break a subject (or some of a subject) down into parts, each go off and learn a part thoroughly, and then come back together and teach each other what you've learned. The 'teacher' could prepare a slide-show and a handout, explain how to answer past paper questions, and ask the other ...

  11. Get Motivated to Study: 23 Tips To Stop Procrastinating

    5. Be clear about why you want to get good grades. One of the best ways to get motivated to study is to be very clear about why you want to get good grades in the first place. Make a list of the reasons you want to do well academically. Here are some typical reasons: I want to learn more and develop myself; I want to develop the habit of ...

  12. ADHD Freeze: Understanding Task Paralysis

    It may make it challenging to speak, move, or convey what's going on in your mind at the moment. ADHD task paralysis. A freeze in motivation may result in procrastination and task avoidance ...

  13. When ADHD Leads to Lack of Motivation: How to Get It Done

    Motivation Hack #2: Remove the "Shoulds" or "Supposed to's" in Your Life. You will notice that you use these words only when you are trying to do something that someone else considers important. "Should" and "supposed to" are motivation killers and need to be eliminated from your vocabulary. You can minimize "shoulds" by ...

  14. How To Get Motivated To Do Homework

    The solution lies herein: Take a cup of coffee to stimulate your mind. Have a change of environment for a moment. A cold shower would do some good (really) Listen to that favorite song for a while then get back to the homework. A rest, probably 30-minute nap is recommended. Go to a quiet room and settle there.

  15. Avoiding Common Mistakes in Motivating Students to Do Math

    Motivated students tend to have better performance, higher self-esteem, and improved psychological well-being. Keeping motivational strategies in mind can enhance confidence to do math, which can reduce their math anxiety and lower academic achievement. Here are some of the worst mistakes we've made when trying to motivate students to do math ...

  16. I have no motivation at all, whatsoever, to do my homework

    At least 8 hrs and prioritize sleep above all else. Otherwise you're running on empty. Make sure you're eating healthy and getting exercise too. You physical self being in good shape will prep you to do the mental work of home work and also give you the confidence of getting things done. Practice getting things done.

  17. Can't Get Motivated To Do Anything? Here Are 10 Reasons Why

    I have published a complete guide about time-blocking, you can read it here, Time Block: The Technique For Superb Focus And Productivity. 9. Low Energy State - Mentally And Physically. Another reason most people can't get motivated to do anything in life is due to their low energy state, both physically and mentally.

  18. How do i motivate myself into doing homework? : r/college

    Part of it was just growing up. Turns out getting older makes you a little more responsible and motivated to get shit done. But the main thing was just shutting the fuck up and doing the work. When I'm assigned homework, I try to do it as soon as possible. The longer you procrastinate, the harder it is to stop procrastinating.

  19. No Motivation To Work: Why It Occurs and How To Overcome It

    Spend your break focusing on things besides your work. You could take a moment to chat with a coworker, grab a snack, refill your water or go on a walk. Even standing up and stretching can help your body and mind feel more awake. By giving your mind a short rest, you may feel ready to get started on the task at hand.

  20. How to Motivate the Unmotivated Child

    Say the following: "I want you to get up out of bed and get ready for school.". "I want you to do your homework now.". Then leave the bedroom. If the kid doesn't do it, then there should be consequences. There should be accountability. If your child says, "I don't care about the consequences," ignore her.

  21. I have lost all motivation to do my school work and no matter ...

    I'm 40. I was you. I could find no real good reason to go through with all the effort of doing my homework or even staying awake in class. I graduated from high school and got a shitty job. ... "I try to get motivated". You need perspective. Most people are so self obsessed they do not even see the world around them. Go to a local childrens ...

  22. I can't bring myself to actually DO my work and focus

    Get the Reddit app. Scan this QR code to download the app now. Or check it out in the app stores. Genshin Impact. Call of Duty: Warzone. Hollow Knight: Silksong. Watch Dogs: Legion. Megan Anderson. Philadelphia 76ers.