The UK is not known for its sunny weather and high temperatures – however, that’s not to say it doesn’t get hot in the summer.
If anything, the fact that such weather is so rare means that when the sun does shine and the temperatures rise above mild conditions, managing everyday tasks and studying can be difficult. Part of you wants to get out and enjoy the sun, and part of you wants to seek shade and restore England to its usual mild temperature.
In this blog, we’re focussing specifically on the challenges that come with studying in such conditions, and how to stay motivated during the summer months.
Take your university work outside
Unarguably the best way to tick both boxes and enjoy both the warm summer weather and a consistent approach to studying is to take your work outside.
Armed with a blanket or outside table and chair, a cold bottle of water, some sunglasses to prevent squinting, and all your university books, taking your work outside will grant you the best of both worlds.
TOP TIP: Create a dedicated space where you can study outside, that doesn’t impede on the area where you want to sunbathe and socialise during study breaks. Being able to separate your work and play space is so important come rain or shine and shouldn’t change just because you’re working outside. If you’re managing a limited space without the room to create different sections or areas, then consider an outside crate where all your university work can live when not in use, so that you physically step away from a work mindset and embrace your downtime.
Be selfish about how you spend your time
It’s okay to say no to plans when you have an exam coming up or coursework to complete.
Equally, it’s okay to turn down a chance to socialise, in favour of an opportunity to enjoy a little of your own peaceful downtime.
The important thing to remember is that, even though the summer months tend to bring more parties and more opportunities to socialise, that doesn’t have to mean – and shouldn’t mean – that you skimp on “you time” and on your work.
Create a study timetable
If you know how long you plan to study for each day, and what you need to get done to stay on top of your work, then you can enjoy the time off without worry.
Taking breaks after each section of work is a good way to break up a study day, alongside clear boundaries as to what time you plan to finish.
TOP TIP: Choose a routine that you can perform at the end of a study day, to mark the end of your “work time”. It could be pouring yourself a cold drink, making a snack, or literally closing your laptop and leaving it for the rest of the day.
Don’t leave it all until the last minute
The summer term is a big one. It’s the time of the year when all the exams and deadlines tend to fall – and for those who haven’t spend sufficient time working and studying during the rest of the year, it marks an exceptionally busy period of cramming.
Don’t be that person. Remember all the great things you want to do in the summer and use it as motivation to work throughout the rest of the year. Which leads us onto the next point…
Use the summer to try new things!
One of the best motivations throughout the majority of the university year is summer and all the activities and things you want to try.
From holidays to new hobbies and activities, create summer plans that you want to stick to and enjoy without university work bogging you down. Trust us when we say this is a highly effective way to motivate yourself to get some work done on a chilly winter evening.
Don’t forget the summer logistics
Now we’re into the logistics and the things that your mum would want you to think about when the sun finally arrives.
Hydration is integral particularly among young people at university who may be used to drinking socially in the evenings and failing to top up on their water intake in the day. Combining Friday night drinks with a mild case of heat stroke is not to be recommended – so invest in a reusable water bottle that you can carry everywhere and keep it full!
Another thing to remember when the sun comes out is sun scream. Especially if you plan to study outside, sun cream is an absolute must. And it’s probably best to buy an extra pair of study sunglasses while you’re at it to prevent squinting, and a hat to protect the back of your neck and ears. You can thank us later.
Keep it social while studying
Finally, whether you’re spending your summer with friends or away from your university mates, if you have to continue studying during your time off then consider making it a sociable team exercise.
They say that more hands make light work – so if a group of you all need to study, then take the time to support each other remotely or via in-person meet ups and enjoy breaks as a team. This will, again, keep you motivated and ensure that you don’t miss anything.
Not to mention, studying as a group in the summer gives you the benefit of group learning – picking each other’s brains and applying / checking each other’s sun cream!
Look after your skin, your study, and your self this summer by combining work and play – and never spending too long in the sunshine without adequate breaks and hydration. Happy studying!
