TLDR;
This video provides practical advice on how to manage studying and daily tasks while struggling with mental health. It emphasises the importance of self-compassion, realistic goal setting, and effective stress management techniques. Key strategies include avoiding comparisons to past performance, breaking down tasks, prioritising effectively, and creating a personal reset routine.
- Avoid comparing yourself to your past self and work with your current capabilities.
- Break down tasks into manageable steps and prioritise what truly needs immediate attention.
- Remove yourself from stressful situations and practice mindfulness to stay present.
- Rest properly and find a reset routine that doesn't depend on others.
Intro [0:00]
The video addresses the struggle of feeling unmotivated and overwhelmed, acknowledging that many people don't have the luxury of endless breaks. It highlights the real-life consequences of prolonged procrastination, such as failing exams. The video aims to provide strategies for studying effectively even when mental health is a challenge.
How to make real progress [0:40]
The initial advice focuses on self-compassion and realistic expectations. It suggests avoiding comparisons to past performance and instead working with current capabilities. If understanding concepts takes longer, allocate more time. If distraction is a problem, start with short study sessions and gradually increase the duration. The key is to make progress, no matter how small.
How to make a manageable to-do list [1:52]
This section focuses on creating manageable to-do lists by asking two key questions: "Do I really need to do this?" and "Do I really need to do it right now?". This helps to prioritise tasks and reduce stress. It suggests that it's often better to submit an assignment late with a small penalty than to rush and lose more marks due to poor quality. The speaker also recommends using Idenati to organise digital workspaces, keeping important websites and to-do lists in one place.
How to reduce anxiety [4:18]
The video suggests removing yourself from anxiety-inducing situations. It reinforces the idea that negative thoughts can be consuming, and creating a reflex to leave the space can be beneficial. Anxiety is described as fear of the future, and bringing oneself back to the present is recommended. This can be achieved by walking around and using your senses to describe your surroundings. The goal is to train yourself to focus on the present rather than worrying about future events.
How to stop feeling so overwhelmed with big tasks [6:24]
This part emphasises that you don't have to do everything immediately. Drawing from a personal anecdote, the speaker highlights how the pressure to complete everything at once can lead to stress and anxiety. Instead, break tasks into smaller parts, completing some today and the rest later. It's important to reframe incomplete tasks, focusing on what has been accomplished rather than what's left to do. Prioritise quick, easy tasks to clear mental clutter.
How to rest properly [8:20]
The video addresses the tendency to feel guilty for resting. It points out that if you're still tired after resting, you're probably not resting properly, but instead worrying about tasks. The speaker advises to take well-rested breaks, comparing it to resetting a lagging laptop to prevent a crash.
Find your reset routine [9:03]
The final section encourages viewers to find a personal reset routine that helps them relax or prepare for upcoming tasks. Suggestions from viewers include skincare routines, comfort food, and watching TV. The speaker stresses the importance of having a routine that doesn't depend on others, as people may not always be available. The video concludes by encouraging viewers to share what stresses them out in the comments and offering words of encouragement and gratitude.
