It’s a new year! Just like sorting through old clothes we don’t wear anymore and clearing out the things we no longer find useful; it is also time for us to take inventory of what serves us best in our emotional and personal lives.
With the new year comes new goals — especially as a student. You may find that success is easier to come by when you confront the things that are negatively impacting you head on. Here are three methods you can practice:
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Dispose of all negative thinking.
It’s difficult to get anywhere with defeatist thoughts. Do your best this year to think positively and optimistically. One of the ways you can retrain your brain to think less negatively is by removing yourself from the environments, situations, or people that may trigger this type of thinking.
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Rid yourself of bad health habits.
Set up a clean environment in your body so that you can nurture a strong immune system. This is especially important as the COVID-19 pandemic continues. Don’t worry about what you cannot control. Do consider quitting unhealthy habits such as smoking and focus on your nutrition by adding leafy greens and vegetables like broccoli and asparagus to your diet. Also, strive for at least 30 minutes of exercise — even light walking — at least three times a week. In addition, consider watching less TV and spending more time with the ones you love.
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Join a UMA study group.
If your UMA course has a study group on Facebook and you receive an invite by email, consider joining. The UMA Study Groups are a place for you to interact with other students who have positive visions for their future. Among peers, you can discuss tips for academic success and receive both motivation and inspiration to do your best.
Helpful Resources
- Retrain Your Brain: How to Reverse Negative Thinking Patterns
- Bouncing Back From 2020, 5 tips to boost your inner strength and resilience in times of upheaval
- 23 Health Goals to Achieve in 2021
While focusing on the intangibles that affect your life is important, it’s also crucial to pay attention to what you see day after day. Sprucing up and optimizing where you do your homework can make you more eager to retreat to that place to complete your tests and assignments.
Whether it’s a traditional-style desk setup, or just an area where you feel most comfortable to study, decorate it in a way that is personal to you and your goals. Here are some ways you can do that:
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Make a board of motivational images and sayings.
If you have a wall nearby your study area, put a vision board there. It may help you want to do your best and stay on track when you’re focusing on positive, aspirational images, pictures of what is meaningful to you, and quotes that inspire every day. You can create these posters inexpensively with things you may already have on hand like magazines and the blank cardboard from inside cereal boxes. Let your imagination soar.
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Create a new schedule.
It’s okay to do things differently! Don’t feel like you must stick to the same routines as last year. Start a totally fresh electronic or hard copy calendar. Fill in the calendar with hard deadlines and then evaluate which days/times that you feel really work best for you to complete your homework. Be sure to block off time for selfcare and family time. This YouTube video gives some suggestions on how to create your ideal weekly schedule.
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Add a plant to your desk.
Create a bit of relaxation and connection to something of this earth by putting a cactus or a little fern on your desk. Take care for this plant by watering and pruning its leaves — symbolic of your commitment to caring for your education and professional growth in the new year. Something from nature can also add a sense of relaxation and calm to your environment.
Helpful Resources
- 5 Reasons to Make A Vision Board In 2021 (+ How To, Ideas)
- Eight Dimensions of Wellness – SAMHSA Publications
UMA Support
UMA knows that many students juggle work and family life while going to school. That’s why we have a built-in support system. Our Learner Services Advisors are here for you. Call 888-216-0544. We encourage you to reach out with questions and concerns.
UMA Cares
UMA Cares handles important student issues that may need to be addressed with special attention. UMA Cares takes all inquiries seriously and responds in a timely manner. Visit UltimateMedical.edu/uma-cares/ to make your voice heard.
UMA Wellness Center
Stay tuned to the UMA Wellness Center for new blog posts! Wellness is incredibly important to your studies and your overall health. UMA is committed to providing you and your household with access to wellness resources. You and your household can use these resources to work toward your health and wellbeing!
UMA does not endorse any vendors, products, or services presented in the UMA Wellness Blog Series, and UMA bears no responsibility in any capacity as it relates to such vendors, products, or services. The information on wellness or related services is not intended or implied to be a substitute for professional financial advice. Please contact the vendor or service provider for answers to questions regarding its content, products, or services.