Maintaining Focus Amidst Uncertainty: Tips for NCA and Bar Students
Studying during times of upheaval and uncertainty can be exceptionally challenging. The world's current situation may make it feel like studying is less important compared to other pressing concerns, such as finding articling jobs or the uncertainty surrounding exam schedules. As someone finishing up LL.M classes and diving into exam preparation, I understand the struggles faced by NCA and Bar students trying to navigate this new quarantine-world while staying productive and focused. While I have the advantage of firm exam timelines, I acknowledge that many others may not have that luxury. Nevertheless, here are some tips to make focusing and staying productive a little easier during these uncertain times:
- Adjust Your Timelines:
Given the slower pace of life these days, take advantage of the added study time resulting from exam rescheduling. Embrace this as an opportunity rather than a setback. There's no need to rush through your studies at the same high-pressure rate you may have been maintaining before. Feel free to ease up your study timelines and allow yourself to take things at a more relaxed pace. While I still recommend having a study schedule and goals to keep you on track, don't feel guilty about stretching them out. As mentioned in my previous post titled "Feeling Stuck, But Staying Strong," adapting to this new environment may take time, but maintaining a routine and sense of structure in your life is crucial for your well-being.
- Balance is Key:
As you adjust your study timelines, consider setting dedicated "study hours" and "non-study hours" to achieve a healthy work-study-life balance. Establish a weekly routine that provides you with a sense of structure. It's essential to take breaks, stretch, or engage in exercise during these indoor-bound days. For example, I have been using YouTube and apps like Daily Burn to find free workouts that I can do comfortably in my own apartment.
- Have a Happy Study Space:
Your study environment plays a significant role, pandemic or not! If possible, dedicate a space solely for studying and ensure it has everything you need. Create a study oasis where you can concentrate effectively. Ideally, this space should be quiet with ample natural light, tidy, and well-organized. Even if you're sharing your home with others, try to carve out a small corner to keep your study materials organized. If noise is an issue, use earbuds or sound-cancelling headphones and play study tunes to block out distractions. Personally, I've been rotating between various playlists and albums on Spotify and Apple Music that help me focus.
- Connect with Others:
Maintaining social connections is crucial during this isolating time. I highly recommend having a study-buddy or study group, as collaboration has been a key element of success throughout my legal studies. Engaging with friends and colleagues to discuss exams and work on practice questions together provides much-needed social integration and helps combat feelings of loneliness during this stressful period.
Remember, we are all navigating this uncertainty together, and taking care of your mental well-being is as important as academic preparation. Embrace these tips and find ways to make the most out of the current situation.
Happy studying!
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