Why should you reward yourself for your accomplishments?
Boost your motivation
While studying can be fun, staying motivated can be a challenge at times. Having something to look forward to after achieving your next milestone can give you a much-needed push to get started and give it your all.
Reinforce positive habits
Being rewarded for something you did will make your brain want to do it more. You can use small rewards for studying to “condition yourself” to repeat that successful study session for the next reward, solidifying a good study habit.
Reduce stress and focus on progress
Studying for exams can be very stressful. Rewarding yourself not only breaks up the monotony but also brings a positive element to your study routine.
Knowing there is a “light at the end of the tunnel” at regular intervals whenever you reach your next study milestone can make the journey more manageable, and reminds you that you are, in fact, making progress!
Rewards to avoid
While rewarding yourself is beneficial, some rewards can be counterproductive, especially if they form unhealthy habits or detract from your goals.
Junk food or sweets
While it’s tempting to reach for sweet or fatty snacks as a quick reward, these can lead to poor health outcomes if consumed regularly. Instead, look for nutritious alternatives that satisfy without compromising your health.
Excessive screen time and social media
Binge-watching a show, extended gaming, or scrolling socials are go-to ways for many of us to reward ourselves and unwind. It is much less effective than we think, though: Too much screen time can strain your eyes and disrupt your sleep patterns, which in turn can negatively affect your study performance.
Breaking the bank
Don’t judge yourself for spending expendable money on little pick-me-ups like your favorite coffee – it’s the little things that go a long way in making our day better. The occasional splurge may be motivating, as well – but be careful to not rely on expensive rewards.
Putting a strain on your finances won’t help your overall wellbeing and add to your stress rather than relieving it.
Harmful substances
Alcohol or other substances are not good reward mechanisms. Not only do they generally negatively affect your performance in the short and long term, but there is also a risk of dependency, especially if you use them for a purpose like rewarding yourself for studying.
Ways to reward yourself without food or unhealthy habits
Get fresh air
It sounds simple, but for a lot of people, there are few things more relaxing than hearing birds chirping and looking at some trees. The famous “mental health walk” can do wonders for your mood, energy levels, and sense of relaxation. Go for a walk in a nearby park, spend some time in a garden if you have the opportunity, or take a nice route on foot to a cafe you like. For short breaks, even stepping out of your house, taking a few deep breaths and looking at the sky can help reset an overwhelmed brain.
Exercise or movement
Exercise releases endorphins and improves mood and energy levels. Some of us enjoy exercise more than others – but even if you’re not a sports fan, consider enjoying a stretching or yoga session. When you’re hunched over a desk studying, moving your body and finally stretching your limbs can be a great relief. Maybe putting on headphones and dancing to your favorite song would work?
Reading something fun
Pick up a novel or a magazine unrelated to your studies. This can be a great way to escape and refresh your mind, making it easier to return to studying with a clear head.
Call a friend
Connecting with a friend or family member is a great way to give your brain a rest and feel more fulfilled in your day. It can help you feel more supported and take your mind off studying for a while. Additionally, you can share the milestone you just reached with them, adding a loved one’s appreciation and support to your sense of reward.
Hobbies
Spend some time on a hobby you love but often neglect. Whether it’s playing a musical instrument, drawing, or knitting, engaging in hobbies can be incredibly therapeutic and rewarding.
Self-care
Take some time for physical or mental self-care by having a spa day (or hour) at home with a warm bath, face masks, or meditation. This can help you unwind physically and mentally.
Final words
Rewarding yourself for studying doesn’t have to be complicated or unhealthy. By choosing the right rewards, you can keep up your motivation, improve your mental health, and reinforce good study habits.
What’s your favorite reward for yourself? Have you noticed some work better than others? With all the stress that school can bring, it’s worth paying attention to keeping your most important resource happy and motivated: yourself!
