Studying for Success

Picture
Doing well at school is not just some special gift that only a few enjoy. Anyone can learn the skills to achieve success. What's more, the same skills that will help you do your best at school will also apply out of school as well, be it work or leisure. All success comes down to three things.
  1. Attitude - see below
  2. Planning - click here
  3. Organisation - click here

It's all in the Attitude....

Picture yourself sitting in class... 
  • Do you slouch and slump, leaning on your desk?
  • Do you fidget, look out the window, secretly play with your mobile phone/Ipod or talk when you should be listening?
  • Do you generally think, feel and talk negatively about learning and school-related topics?
  • Will you find any possible excuse to get out of school work and/or going to school?
If you answered 'yes' to these, then your attitude towards success needs a makeover. Instead...
  • Sit up straight. Correct posture is not only good for your physical health, but improved oxygen flow will, believe it or not, help you to concentrate and feel less like wanting to go to sleep.
  • Pay attention. Take advantage of what your teacher has to offer you. Listen to what's being explained, take notes, and ask your teacher for help and advice. It doesn't have to be during class; see them afterwards if you wish to avoid drawing attention to yourself. But remember, if you have a question, chances are somebody else is wondering the same thing. Plus, if you are paying attention in class, there is less chance you'll lose your lunch times to detentions!
  • Think positively and reward yourself! Whenever you have a negative thought about school, try and replace it with a positive one. EG, 'It won't take long if I get onto it quickly', 'I might actually enjoy it', 'If I finish it by Friday, I won't have to worry about it taking up my weekend.'
  • Join In. Schools offer a variety of extra-curricular activities. Find one YOU enjoy, and talk a couple of friends into joining it with you.
  • Be ACTIVE not PASSIVE - Take responsibility for your own learning and success, and take steps towards being involved.
BE......
DETERMINED
FOCUSED
HARD-WORKING
PERSISTENT
WILLING TO LEARN
OPEN TO IDEAS
INVOLVED