Back To School: Set Realistic Goals and Turn Your Marks Around
2 years ago
‘New year, new you’? Maybe not, but we could definitely aim for a ‘new year, better you’.
2022 is here! As the tradition goes, many people like to make New Year’s resolutions in the wake of a fresh year. Some popular ones include:
- to lose weight
- to eat healthier
- to exercise more
- to reduce spending
... and to add to that list, how about achieving better grades?
With school just around the corner, now is the time to switch from holiday mode to study mode. At RESN, we have a range of services to support your learning needs, including tips on how to prepare for Year 11 & 12. If you have just graduated high school, you might be figuring out which course to choose or whether uni might be the right path for you.
Wherever you currently stand, each year is an opportunity to create healthy habits and get rid of the bad ones.
So, why is it so easy for New Year’s resolutions to fail? You might stick to them for the first couple weeks before falling back into your old habits and patterns. There are some common mistakes that result in new habits failing.
When it comes to studying, it is important to create study habits that are realistic and sustainable. Here are some suggestions from us at RESN:
1. Know your ‘why’
Why do you want to improve your study habits? Is it because you enjoy learning, want to score high marks, or that everyone around you is following suit? Our thoughts and actions are guided by our motivations. Try to unpack all the reasons behind why you study or want to improve how you study.
2. Make SMART goals
You’ve probably heard of them. SMART goals provide clarity and direction for the process of achieving the end result. This is a classic goal formula that includes five elements:
- Specific
- Measurable
- Attainable
- Realistic
- Time-bound
Sounds easy, but making effective SMART goals can be tricky. Here are 25 examples of SMART goals that can help you determine how exactly you want to improve studying habits and other personal goals.
3. Find what works for you
Lastly, experiment! Forming study habits that work to your advantage requires patience and commitment. Avoid ineffective learning techniques (studying for long periods of time, cramming, multitasking) and practise research-based effective strategies (spacing, interleaving, retrieval).
There will be challenges to overcome for studies and life overall, but you will be supported throughout your journey.
You’ve got this! Make 2022 your best year yet.