We’ve all experienced those quirky and often frustrating moments—struggling to keep up with assignments, getting easily distracted by our phones or social media, or feeling unmotivated and drained during long study sessions. Whether you’re in middle school, high school, or college, being a student comes with its fair share of challenges and obstacles that can make you feel overwhelmed.
It’s easy to get stuck in a cycle where no matter how hard you try, things don’t seem to go as planned. You know you have the potential to do better, but you can’t seem to break through the barriers holding you back. However, the good news is that anyone, regardless of where they are in their educational journey, can make simple yet impactful changes to become a better student. It’s all about adopting new habits, developing effective strategies, and having the right mindset to push through the tough moments.
First, You Must Find Your Problem Areas
The first step to improvement is figuring out what’s holding you back. Are you easily distracted by your phone? Do you procrastinate until the last minute, cramming for tests or rushing to finish papers?
It could also be that you’re having trouble staying organized or don’t know how to study effectively. Whatever it’s about, identifying your weak spots is the first step toward becoming a better student.
For motivation, you can take the example of Trina Frierson, author of The Flight to Freedom; she faced numerous obstacles in her own life, including addiction, homelessness, and loss.
But she didn’t let those struggles define her. Instead, she found ways to overcome them and used her experiences to inspire others.
Like Trina, once you know your roadblocks, you can find the strength to push through them.
Make a Simple, Achievable Plan
Now that you’ve figured out what’s slowing you down, it’s time to make a plan. You know you must do more than study harder. Be smart with your studies.
And for that, we’re sharing a few tips that can help you do that:
- Setting realistic goals: Don’t aim for perfection, but do aim to improve step by step, slowly but steadily.
- Create a schedule: Stick to daily homework and studying. Take appropriate breaks for rest in between.
- Use tools: Use planners, apps, or a simple to-do list to track assignments and deadlines.
- Don’t take it as a burden: Take it as your responsibility to become a better version of yourself.
If Trina’s story in The Flight to Freedom teaches anything, having a plan and the will to follow through can change lives.
You can apply the same thought process to your studies as a student. A plan helps you stay focused; each small achievement or success will motivate you to achieve more.
Manage Your Time Effectively
As mentioned earlier, time management is critical to improving anything, including being a better student. Don’t leave things until the last minute; you’ll always feel stressed and unprepared.
Break down big assignments into smaller tasks and tackle them bit by bit. Make use of quiet study times when you’re most alert. If you’re more productive in the morning, schedule your most challenging tasks in the morning.
If you concentrate better in the evening, plan your study sessions accordingly. Regarding time management, The Flight to Freedom also highlights how Trina had to manage her time and priorities to build her future.
Ask for Help When You Need It
Never feel shy about asking for help. If you’re struggling, you can always ask your teacher or a friend or use online resources.
Again, just like Trina sought help to overcome her addiction and rebuild her life, you can ask for guidance when you need it.
Your Flight to Success
Becoming a better student is a journey; every little improvement counts. Keep going even if you don’t see big results right away. Focus on your goals, make adjustments, and ask for help when needed.
Grab your copy of The Flight to Freedom by Trina Frierson, an inspiring true story of transformation and determination.
