6 Ways For Teens/Youths to Avoid Distractions and Finish Homework
With all the distractions we’re
presented with from the Internet and other forms of media these
days, it can be very difficult for teens/youths to focus on schoolwork.
It is so convenient to tweet what you’re doing, text your friends, post on facebook or to do an infinite number of
things when you’re supposed to be researching for an essay.
I’ll admit that just during the time it took to write this post, I’ve taken several breaks just to go on Facebook to see what everyone’s up to. Don’t worry –
everyone will still be there after you’re done doing your work, so close Firefox/Chrome/Safari or quit your mobile browser and get down to business.
Here are a few ways to increase your productivity and try to
break away from distractions:
1. Turn off your wireless/ Internet connection.
I know, it sounds crazy to deliberately cut off your connection to the outside world, but just do it. It eliminates your
ability to easily open up your Internet browser and will help
you to focus on what you really should be doing.
2. Set aside a specific time for using social networking/other
recreational websites.
I’ve allotted myself some time to be on the internet. I know that if I don’t give myself any limits, I’m
capable of staying on Facebook and “becoming a fan” of fifty more pages instead of reading my handout or doing my assignments. I’m sure many people
experience this problem too, so make sure to set aside about an hour (or whatever works for
you) for leisure time.
3. Take short breaks.
After reading my handouts for too long, I tend to waste about half an hour by taking a nap. So to save myself from becoming insanely bored, I
take little breaks by checking facebook or twitter for a few minutes or getting a snack. I suggest that
you read for about twenty to thirty minutes at a time, then take a five to ten minute break to maintain your sanity.
4. Do your work NOW rather than later.
I am a seasoned procrastinator. I’m guilty of wasting hours on end watching videos, chatting on instant messengers, or just
daydreaming. I’ve learnt the hard way that procrastination is
not very rewarding and almost always results in bags under
your eyes and B minuses. Do yourself a favor in advance, and start your work ahead of time.
5. Prioritize!
Ten years from now, do you want to look back at your life and
realize that you spent a greater portion of your teen years sitting
down in front of a laptop, rather than doing things that actually matter? Spend some time with
your family or go outside and take a walk. Read a book, or do something with yourself that doesn’t involve a computer. (This is something I really need to work on too.)
6. Spend less time reading blogs like these about how to
help yourself and get right to work! NOW!
The only way to really live productively is to go out and start actually living! After you’ve read up on how to become more
productive, put your newly obtained knowledge to use.
(I am also working on a few points their myself, no one is perfect)
