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Feynman Technique: The 4-Step System for Students to Learn Anything Well

April 17, 2023 By Daniel Wong 3 Comments

Feynman technique by Richard Feynman

I learned very early the difference between knowing the name of something and knowing something.

– Richard Feynman, Nobel Prize-winning physicist

I’m sure you’ve heard of the term “energy.” But can you explain how energy causes a car to move or what happens to energy when ice melts?

Many students confuse knowing jargon with true understanding.

We might know the name of a concept, formula, or idea. But this doesn’t mean we know how it works or how to apply it to solve problems.

Richard Feynman developed the Feynman technique for this exact reason – to test and refine our understanding of a topic.

The Feynman technique helps you learn through the act of teaching. The technique involves explaining a topic using your own words, as if you were teaching it to a child.

This study strategy encourages you to break down complex ideas using simple language. This enables real learning to take place.

In this article, I’ll discuss the pros and cons of using the Feynman learning technique. I’ll also explain the 4-step process you can use to apply this study method.

(If you want to be more focused, make sure to download the free quick action guide below.)

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Advantages and disadvantages of the Feynman technique

confident student

The Feynman technique is an excellent study method that almost anyone can use to learn a new concept. It’s best suited for complex topics that involve more than memorizing a list of facts.

Some of the biggest benefits of using the Feynman technique to study are:

  • It helps you distill a difficult subject into ideas that are simpler to understand. This allows you to engage with the new information in a meaningful way. It also helps to make you aware of possible knowledge gaps.
  • It improves your critical thinking skills. You’re less likely to take everything at face value. This study technique encourages you to dig deeper. The goal is for you to learn to form your own conclusions and analyses.
  • It encourages you to continually review new concepts. This will allow you to retain new information longer. As a result, you’ll get good grades on your exams.
  • Your study sessions will be more interesting and engaging. You and your friends can take turns explaining new concepts to each other. These group study sessions are a great way to switch things up and make studying fun.

Like any learning method, the Feynman technique has its disadvantages. These include the following:

  • This technique might not be suitable for certain subjects and topics. The Feynman technique isn’t effective for learning already-simple concepts. It’s also not ideal for topics that rely heavily on memorization.
  • It’s time-consuming. Learning a new concept, understanding it at a deeper level, then explaining it in your own words can take significant time and effort.

It may take some experimentation to find out if the Feynman technique is effective for you.

Let’s explore the 4-step process you can implement to apply the Feynman technique.

Step 1: Understand the concept

understanding complex topicSelect a topic you would like to learn. Start small, and be specific with the scope of the topic.

For instance, it’s obviously impossible to learn everything about “biology” or “chemistry.”

Instead, narrow the subject down to something that might appear on your exams. For example, “structure of an animal cell” or “digestion of protein in the body.”

Once you have your topic, you can brush up on your knowledge by reading about it thoroughly. Then, jot down what you know on a blank piece of paper.

When writing out these notes, keep the following pointers in mind:

  • Explain the concept using simple terms you understand.
  • Break down larger topics into smaller sub-topics with their own headers and bullet points.
  • Use mind maps to represent the relationship between different concepts. Mind maps have been proven to help learners understand and remember new concepts.
  • Use real-life examples to simplify the concept. For instance, using the lock-and-key model to explain how enzymes interact with substrates. Studies show that using analogies improves learning and retention of difficult concepts.
  • Explore how you can apply the concept. For example, applying a formula to solve a physics-related question or explaining how to make soap using a chemical equation.

Step 2: Explain the concept

teenager explaining conceptThis step is the heart of the Feynman technique.

You’ll need to talk about the concept using terms that are simple enough for a 12-year-old to understand. 

For example, you might explain how an animal cell produces energy or how the greenhouse effect contributes to global warming. All your explanations must be concise.

To prepare for this step, use the Feynman notebook method. This is where you write down your explanation of a topic in your own words.

You can approach it like you’re organizing your thoughts or explaining it to someone else. You then discuss the concept out loud to see if it makes sense or if you trip up in certain areas.

Another option is to teach someone, preferably a friend studying the same topic as you. You can take turns teaching unfamiliar concepts to each other.

This creates a feedback loop.

Questions and comments from the other person can help you spot gaps in your understanding and increase your knowledge.

As you’re teaching your friend, watch for body language cues.

Nodding suggests that you’re on the right track. In contrast, blank stares and confused looks signal a lack of clarity in your explanation.

In addition, you can ask your friend to repeat what you taught them back to you, using their own words. If they’re unable to, you might need to simplify your explanation further.

Step 3: Identify and fill knowledge gaps

After completing Step 2, you’ll probably notice some gaps in your understanding.

Maybe you couldn’t come up with a simplified definition for cellular respiration. Or maybe you couldn’t contrast energy production in animal cells versus plant cells.

Identify these areas for improvement.

Were there any sections you couldn’t explain using simple language? Did your friends raise any questions or spot any inconsistencies?

At this point, you should go back to your learning materials to fill those knowledge gaps.

Here are some other things you can do to solidify your mastery of the topic:

  • Create study notes for the topic. Write these notes using your own words and keep them concise. Research has shown that taking notes improves focus. It also enhances the retention and recall of information.
  • Take advantage of technology. Search online for additional learning materials. These resources may come in different forms, such as a video presentation or an interactive website.
  • Test yourself on the concepts you’ve learned. Apply what you’ve learned by doing some practice questions.

Step 4: Review and simplify

student learningLearning isn’t a one-and-done process.

Repeat the four steps as needed to deepen your understanding. By doing this, you’ll also commit what you’re learning to your long-term memory.

Fine-tune your explanation through repeated self-testing or teaching it to your friends to get feedback. Repeat the process until you’re satisfied with your level of mastery of the topic.

Using the Feynman technique properly can be time-consuming, so be sure to set aside enough time for each topic that you want to cover.

Conclusion

One of the best ways to test and improve your knowledge of a topic is to break down complex ideas using simple terms you already know.

The Feynman technique trains you to do this, allowing you to pinpoint the gaps in your knowledge.

I encourage you to give the technique a try as soon as you can! I’m sure you’ll find it useful. 🙂

(And don’t forget to download the free quick action guide below.)

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Filed Under: Education, Learning, Success

15 Essential Life Skills for Teens (Does Your Teen Have Them?)

Updated on July 30, 2025 By Daniel Wong 4 Comments

life skills for teensDo you get nervous thinking about the day your teens will finally move out of the house?

As a parent, your instinct is to shield your children from difficulties and hardship.

So it’s natural to feel concerned about how your teenagers will handle various obstacles in life — especially when you’re miles apart from them.

When that happens, you want them to be well prepared for the challenges that adulthood brings.

The good thing is that it’s never too late to start teaching your teens the life skills they’ll need to thrive in adulthood.

As their parent, you’re in the best position to help them develop the right values and become responsible young adults.

In this article, we’ll talk about 15 important life skills for teens and how you can impart them to your teens.

(And if you’d like your teenagers to become more motivated, make sure to download the free e-book below.)

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1. Time management

teen sleeping on his school booksDo your teens fall behind on deadlines? Maybe they often leave things to the last minute, causing unnecessary stress and panic.

Effective time management will help your teenagers to stop procrastinating and meet deadlines. Your teens will also be able to get more done in less time.

This will lead to better work-life balance when your teens become adults.

Here are some ways to teach your teens how to manage their time well:

  • Work with them to plan out a daily and weekly schedule. Encourage them to set enough time aside for homework, chores, and other responsibilities. At the same time, teach them how to balance work, rest, and play.
  • Provide them with time management tools. Some of these tools may include a digital or written planner, a to-do list, or an app to keep track of events and tasks.
  • Teach them how to prioritize. Sometimes, a birthday party may clash with a basketball game or music lesson. Help your teens prioritize based on their roles, values, and commitments.

2. Money management

Based on surveys, 75% of young adults would have preferred to learn more finance-related topics in school.

Formal education doesn’t guarantee financial literacy or wisdom. This means that you, as a parent, play a pivotal role in helping your teens learn how to manage their money.

Financial literacy goes a long way in helping your teens avoid debt and build their savings.

You can raise financially-savvy teenagers by following these tips:

  • Encourage them to cultivate a habit of saving. For instance, when they receive their allowance, you can encourage them to put a portion of it aside for their savings. (Of course, it’s vital that you lead by example in this area too!)
  • Help them understand that credit doesn’t mean “free money.” Explain to them how credit cards work and how credit card debt can compound quickly over time.
  • Give them access to budgeting and finance tools. For example, a budget tracker app can help them keep tabs on their expenses.
  • Introduce them to the concept of insurance. You can relate it to something they’re familiar with, like a car. Explain terms to them such as deductible, premium, exclusions, etc.

3. Decision-making

Friends hanging out

No one makes the right decision every single time, but you can help your teen make wiser choices in life in general.

Peer influence plays a big role in adolescent decision-making – in both good and bad ways.

Encourage your teens to spend time with friends who have similar beliefs and values. Teach them to establish boundaries and to be brave enough to say no.

Help them weigh the pros and cons of the decisions they’re faced with.

Provide guidance when appropriate, but avoid forcing your opinions on your teenagers. As difficult as it might be, as parents, we must sometimes take the backseat and let them learn from their mistakes.

4. Goal-setting and planning

You might have ambitious teens who dream big.

Structured goal-setting and planning can help your teens unlock their potential. They’ll learn to leverage their talents and strengths to achieve well-defined goals.

Encourage your teens to write down their goals and ambitions. These must be their goals, not the aspirations you wish to fulfill through them.

You can also help them break down a big dream into smaller actionable steps. Ensure that each step toward the goal is measurable and specific.

For instance, if your teen wants to learn Korean, he or she might decide to spend 30 minutes studying the language after dinner every day.

And as long as your teens’ goals are meaningful in some way, do your best to be supportive!

5. Critical thinking

Do your teenagers take things at face value?

If so, encourage them to analyze information and ideas rationally and independently.

That way, your teens can form their own opinions and conclusions that are reasonable and well thought out.

Here’s how you can help your teens practice critical thinking:

  • Ask them to come up with solutions to real-life problems.
  • Ask them open-ended questions that can’t be answered with a simple “yes” or “no.”
  • Give them opportunities to make important decisions. For example, would they like to spend the summer break volunteering or attending an educational camp?

6. Adaptability and resilience

teenager playing baseball

How can you help your teens adapt quickly to change and bounce back from rough times?

Here are some tips to try:

  • Encourage your teens to pursue new experiences. For instance, they could try out a new sport or join a club.
  • Help your teens to focus on the positive aspects of change rather than dwelling on disappointments.
  • Remind your teens to be aware of their inner monologue and how they speak to themselves.
  • Encourage your teens to devise solutions to problems and weigh out the pros and cons of each one.
  • Help your teenagers form healthy connections with friends, family members, counselors, and coaches. These people will be able to provide your teenagers with support and guidance.

7. Becoming a self-directed learner

Many teenagers have the mindset that they have to finish their schoolwork and projects.

This isn’t entirely their fault. They’ve learned to think this way due to the punishments or consequences they face – typically at school – if they don’t complete the work.

But having this mindset means that your teens may only finish their tasks and fulfill their responsibilities when someone is coercing them to.

So what you can do instead is to encourage your teenagers to be proactive and self-directed learners.

Help them to see the inherent meaning and purpose behind what they’re currently working on, beyond the outcome they’re trying to achieve.

Encourage them to explore various learning resources and platforms on their own. And provide them with tools to monitor the progress they’re making, such as apps like Lifetick or GoalsOnTrack.

8. Resourcefulness

When your teens face setbacks in life, do they often give up?

Instead of quitting, help them to become more resourceful. Show them how to broaden their horizons when they’re trying to find a way through an obstacle.

Can an organization, professional, or family member offer guidance?

Or can they take a course or use an online tool that might help?

Give your teens opportunities to make significant decisions. Encourage them to reflect on the mistakes they’ve made.

9. Communication

As teenagers develop good communication skills, they’ll be able to convey their thoughts and opinions more clearly.

They’ll also learn to listen more effectively. This can help to prevent unnecessary conflicts and misunderstandings.

To enable your teens to improve their communication skills, you can:

  • Make time to communicate with your teens. Create opportunities for two-way interactions with your teens. This may involve setting up a no-phone rule at the dinner table or scheduling weekly family time to catch up, etc.
  • Teach your teens the importance of body language in conversations. You can explain to them specific undesirable body language cues (e.g. no eye contact, crossed arms, poor posture).
  • Emphasize the importance of active listening. Model this whenever your teens or anyone else speaks to you. Teach your teens the key principles of active listening.

10. Emotional intelligence and self-awareness

emotional intelligence

Your teens may have trouble understanding their emotions. They may also be unaware of how their moods and actions impact the feelings of others.

With greater emotional intelligence, your teens will cultivate empathy and build stronger relationships.

To build your teens’ emotional intelligence, create a safe atmosphere at home where they can talk openly about their emotions, fears, anxieties, etc.

Instead of sweeping their feelings under the rug, validate their emotions through active listening.

11. Leadership and teamwork

The strength of the team is each member. The strength of each member is the team.

– Phil Jackson, former NBA Coach of the Year

It’s essential that your teens learn to lead and to work in a team.

Here’s how you can help your teens to foster collaborative relationships with others:

  • Teach them to be accountable for their actions. Create a culture of accountability in your home by setting up rules and boundaries. Involve your teens in the process of creating these rules and boundaries.
  • Give them opportunities to negotiate. Invite your teens to share their ideas and opinions. Leave room for negotiation in instances when you don’t see eye-to-eye with them.
  • Establish a culture of celebrating other people’s successes.  Model for your teens how to support, motivate, and encourage others sincerely.
  • Teach them to resolve conflicts effectively. Share with them strategies to stay calm in the middle of tense situations. Show them how to disagree respectfully.

12. Empathy and compassion

Teens who have more empathy will be able to build healthier relationships with others.

Here’s how you can empower your teens to develop this valuable life skill:

  • Create a safe space for them to talk about their feelings and experiences.
  • Ask them what they notice about another person’s facial expressions or body language.
  • Remind them to show honor to others, even in the midst of disagreements and conflicts.
  • Encourage them to volunteer and serve others – you can join them too!

13. Healthy habits and self-care

teen playing basketball

One of the most important life skills for young adults is knowing how to take care of their physical and mental health.

You can try the following:

  • Set an example by practicing good sleep hygiene, e.g. putting away your electronic devices an hour before bed, having a relaxing bedtime routine.
  • Take your teens to their routine health check-ups.
  • Exercise together with them.
  • Teach them basic cooking skills.
  • Show them how to read nutritional labels.

While physical health is important, mental health shouldn’t be overlooked.

According to the World Health Organization, half of all mental health conditions in adulthood begin by age 14.

Here’s how you can help your teens to prioritize their mental well-being:

  • Destigmatize counseling and mental health support.
  • Help them create a self-care routine.
  • Spend 1-on-1 time with them regularly so you can find out how they’re really doing.
  • Learn and practice relaxation techniques (e.g. deep breathing exercises, art therapy) with them.

14. Basic first aid and emergency preparedness

All teenagers should know how to navigate emergencies. These skills could save their life or someone else’s.

Here’s what you can do:

  • Encourage them to attend basic first aid training (and join in if you can).
  • Provide them with personal safety tools and teach them how to use the tools. Personal safety apps like Noonlight can be helpful.
  • Encourage them to have trusted family members or friends saved as emergency contacts.
  • Educate them on how to respond to fires, natural disasters, etc.

15. Basic home maintenance skills

gutter maintenance

Teens without the necessary home maintenance skills may become stressed and overwhelmed when such situations arise.

Get your teenagers involved in basic housekeeping tasks. Teach them to use common household appliances, such as a washing machine and dryer.

It’s a good idea to teach your teens how to:

  • Clean the gutters
  • Reset the circuit breaker
  • Cut off the water supply
  • Hang shelves
  • Fix a leaky faucet
  • Unclog a sink or toilet

Get your teens involved in basic home maintenance tasks as early as possible.

You’ll be teaching them valuable skills that will come in handy when they’re living on their own!

Conclusion

Many valuable life skills can’t be picked up by reading a textbook.

As much as you want your teenagers to get good grades in school, it’s also important for them to become responsible and independent young adults.

By equipping them with the right skills, they’ll be headed down this path!

(If your teens sometimes lack motivation, don’t forget to download the free e-book below.)

FREE E-BOOK:

16 Keys to Motivating Your Teenager (Cover)

Get your FREE copy of

16 Keys to Motivating Your Teenager.


The e-book has already been downloaded by many thousands of parents, so don't miss out!

Filed Under: Attitude, Character, Discipline, Parenting, Success, Teens

How to Make Studying Fun: 12 Tips to Enjoy Your Study Sessions

Updated on September 30, 2024 By Daniel Wong 16 Comments

How to make studying funDoes studying feel like a chore to you?

If you feel unmotivated, bored, or anxious when it comes to studying, you’re not alone.

Studying does have its benefits. It helps you to get good grades, learn new things, and build much-needed life skills for teens and young adults.

And while balance is extremely important, studying will always be a core part of student life.

The good news is that any student can learn to make studying productive and fun.

Yes, you read that right. Studying can be fun! In fact, you can learn how to get into a flow state and make time fly as you work on your assignments.

Let’s explore ways to make studying more enjoyable.

(If you sometimes procrastinate or lack focus, make sure you download the quick action guide below.)

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Tip #1: Stop saying “I have to study”

At times, we may not be attentive enough to the words we say to ourselves. But these words can shape how we view ourselves and the situations in our lives.

The next time you have an upcoming exam, observe how you speak to yourself about it.

You might say something like, “I have to study for the exam.” Once you say this, your brain is wired to think about studying as a chore you have to do – rather than something you choose to do.

What should you say instead?

Replace “have to” with either “choose to” or “get to.”

When you say “I choose to study for the exam,” it’s a reminder that nobody is putting a gun to your head and forcing you to study. It’s a decision that you get to make.

And when you say “I get to study for the exam,” you’re reminding yourself that there are millions of children and teenagers around the world who want to go to school, but who don’t have the opportunity to.

Tip #2: Remind yourself that grades aren’t what matter most

As a student, it’s easy to become too focused on your grades.

That’s understandable. There’s satisfaction you derive from seeing your test scores go up or from getting compliments from your teachers and parents.

Getting good grades is a positive goal and it’s something worth working toward. But it isn’t the only important part of your student life.

Becoming fixated on grades will only lead to unnecessary stress. This will hurt your academic performance too.

It’s the process of learning from your mistakes and improving that matters in the long run.

Tip #3: Study in shorter blocks

study sessionDo you find that your concentration wanes after 45 or 60 minutes of studying?

Pushing yourself to study for long stretches at a go takes the joy out of learning.

A practical study tip is to break down your study sessions into shorter blocks.

You can implement a method called the Pomodoro technique. This technique is a simple yet effective tool for focused work.

Here’s how you can apply it during your study sessions:

  • Set a specific task for your study session.
  • Set a timer for 25 minutes.
  • Work on the task until the timer rings.
  • Take a five-minute break. (Set a timer for the break too.)
  • Repeat the steps listed above.
  • Take a longer break of 15-30 minutes every four rounds.

Of course, you can experiment with the exact length of each study session to find what works best for you. An app like the Productivity Challenge Timer can also help you in this process.

Tip #4: Write down the tasks and assignments you’ve completed

We’ve all heard of a to-do list, but here’s another type of list you should keep: a “done” list.

Keep a record of the tasks and assignments you’ve completed. You can organize these tasks based on their completion date.

But how does a “done” list help? It reminds you to give yourself a pat on the back for what you’ve accomplished.

Keeping a “done” list will make you feel more motivated.

It will also allow you to keep track of the tasks you’ve finished – just in case you can’t remember what’s been completed and what’s still pending.

Tip #5: Cultivate a sense of curiosity

Student readingIf you want to enjoy studying, you need to go beyond surface-level learning.

Yes, a significant part of studying involves reading the materials given to you and memorizing important bits of information.

But this gets boring pretty fast, doesn’t it?

So try this instead…

Ask yourself questions throughout the learning process. It’s an effective way to pick up new concepts.

This study found that participants who asked themselves questions and answered them during the learning process learned the material better.

Here are some questions you can ask yourself while studying:

  • How is this new concept related to what I already know?
  • How can this information be applied in the real world?
  • What are some real-life examples of this theory in action?
  • How was this concept or theory discovered?

If you run into a question you can’t answer, a quick online search is likely to yield an answer.

Tip #6: Get creative with your notes

You can use digital note-taking apps to make your notes more enjoyable to read. For instance, you can add colors, diagrams, icons, and creative fonts to a digital canvas.

If you prefer taking notes with pen and paper, try using colorful highlighters or markers to draw your attention to the key points.

This study suggests that color coding can improve your attention and memory when studying. It can also enhance how your brain processes and organizes information.

Mindmaps are another way to bring your notes to life.

Mindmaps are diagrams that represent concepts and ideas. Mindmaps demonstrate how these concepts and ideas are linked to a central topic and each other.

Mindmaps can encourage intuitive learning by structuring the information clearly.

Tip #7: Invest in stationery you love

stationary items for fun note takingIf you love the stationery you use while studying, the process of studying will become more fun.

You might choose to invest in stationery like:

  • Special highlighters
  • Uniquely-shaped paperclips
  • Washi tape
  • Colorful sticky notes

You can also make note-taking more exciting by using cool notebooks and pens that are nice to write with.

Tip #8: Find a motivated study group

One way to stay on track academically is to study with friends who share the same goals as you. These study sessions can be done online or in person.

Study groups work because accountability can play a huge role in enabling you to form the right study habits.

Start by deciding when you’ll study together on a weekly basis. Then, you can keep each other accountable by encouraging everyone to show up for each study session.

Group study sessions help to break the monotony of studying. Through these sessions, you’ll learn from your friends and you’ll get to compare notes too.

Tip #9: Listen to music (but be wise about your music choices)

studying to musicListening to music can help to reduce stress. It can also improve concentration and enhance learning.

But you need to be cautious when curating your study playlist.

Not all kinds of music are helpful. Certain types of music can be distracting.

Loud and fast music (especially songs with lyrics) can reduce focus. In contrast, soft and slow background music without lyrics can improve focus.

Experiment with different playlists to find what works best for you.

Tip #10: Integrate interactive learning materials into your study plan

Sticking to just one learning format can become tiresome and boring. That’s why it’s a good idea to mix things up!

So, why not explore different formats and modes of learning?

If you have access to the internet, there are thousands of free resources at your fingertips.

These resources might come in the form of:

  • Video lessons
  • Interactive lectures
  • Printable worksheets
  • Learning apps and games
  • Downloadable resource kits
  • Online quizzes
  • Online and printable flashcards
  • Digital guides

Use at least a couple of these types of learning materials to make your study sessions more interesting.

Tip #11: Use apps that make it fun to focus

Here are a few apps I recommend:

  • Study Bunny: This app comes with a study tracker and focus timer. You’ll get a virtual study buddy bunny that you can customize with the coins you earn.
  • Habitica: This app uses in-game rewards to help you build good habits and stay consistent.
  • Forest: In this app, each time you start a focused study session, you plant a virtual tree that keeps growing as long as you stay on task. You can use the coins you earn to make a donation to plant a real tree.

Tip #12: Make your own flashcards

custom flash cards

Flashcards incorporate both words and pictures to help you actively recall information.

How do flashcards work?

One side of the flashcard has a question, and the flip side has the answer. After you read the question, say your answer out loud before flipping over the flashcard to see if you got it right.

For example, one side of the flashcard could say, “What type of organisms are bacteria?”

The flip side could say, “Prokaryotes.”

Using flashcards is a better approach than just passively reading the textbook or notes.

You can make your own flashcards by using index cards or regular paper cut into smaller pieces.

Alternatively, you can use an app like Quizlet or Anki. These apps come with pre-made and customizable digital flashcards that cover a wide range of subjects.

Conclusion

Many students find studying to be boring, stressful, and tedious.

But it doesn’t have to be this way.

Studying can be fun. It all depends on the mindset you have and how you approach each study session.

Take a couple of the tips in this article and apply them in the coming week. I’m sure you’ll start to enjoy the learning process more!

(Don’t forget to download your quick action guide below.)

FREE QUICK ACTION GUIDE: 

12 Guaranteed Ways for Students to Improve Focus and Reduce Procrastination (Cover)

Get your FREE copy of

12 Guaranteed Ways for Students to Improve Focus and Reduce Procrastination. 

The guide has already been downloaded thousands of times, so don't miss out!

Filed Under: Education, Learning, Motivation, Success

How to Choose the Right Coach for Your Teen

Updated on August 28, 2025 By Daniel Wong Leave a Comment

choose right coach for your teen

Every teen needs guidance to navigate the challenges of adolescence.

But as a parent, you’ve probably noticed that your teen frequently rejects your guidance.

The more you tell your teen what choices he or she ought to make, the less likely your teen is to listen.

So what should you do?

Connect your teen with an experienced coach. A skilled coach and mentor can transform unmotivated teens into motivated and responsible young adults.

These positive changes can ease the tension in your relationship with your teen. For many parents, this is the biggest benefit of finding the right coach.

How should you choose the right coach for your teen?

Every teen has unique challenges to overcome and opportunities to make the most of. So it’s important to look for a coach who has the right combination of skills and experience to meet your teen’s needs.

Here’s what to do first…

Identify the goals to be achieved through coaching

When a coach works with teenagers, the focus isn’t usually just on academics. If school performance is a concern you have about your teenager, a holistic approach is most effective.

A coach can work with your teen to develop the intrinsic motivation needed to do well in school. A coach will also help your teenager to develop the mindset and practical skills necessary to thrive.

This process involves many aspects of development for your teen. So it helps to start your search for a coach by listing the main concerns you have about your teenager.

Think about the outcomes you want to achieve through the coaching sessions. Ask yourself questions like:

  • Why am I looking for a coach for my teen?
  • What do I want my teen to learn through the coaching sessions?
  • Which areas does my teen need the most guidance in?

Below are some common areas for improvement that I help my teenage coaching clients to make progress in:

Common area for improvement #1: Motivation

A lack of intrinsic motivation is a common but serious problem that many teenagers struggle with.

A coach can help teens to find the inner drive to learn and improve. As a result, these teenagers will be able to reach their full potential in school and life.

Common area for improvement #2: Responsibility

Motivated teenagerDo you think your teen sometimes behaves irresponsibly?

If so, you’re not alone.

Teens need to learn to make wise decisions, but the desire to do so has to come from within. A coach can help teens shift towards more responsible and mature behavior.

Common area for improvement #3: Sense of purpose

Many teenagers coast through life without a strong sense of purpose.

A lack of direction can lead to frustration for both teens and their parents. It’s difficult for many teens to understand how to make meaningful choices and lead a meaningful life.

At a time when they’re making important decisions about the future, a sense of purpose can guide your teen in the right direction.

A coach can help your teen to cultivate passion and live a life that’s founded on the right values.

Common area for improvement #4: Attitude and mindset

We all know how important it is to develop mental strength. But many teens lack the fortitude to overcome challenges and setbacks.

Coaching can enable teens to become more process-oriented and resilient. Instead of focusing too much on grades or achievement, they’ll learn to find joy in the process of attaining mastery.

As such, they’ll develop a more positive attitude toward school and other areas of life.

Common area for improvement #5: Respect

Respect for authority figures – especially parents – can be dramatically improved through coaching.

You’re probably already aware that teenagers’ disrespectful behavior can damage relationships and cause frustration for everyone involved.

The right coach can help your teen to understand the importance of respect, such that your teen will change his or her behavior for the better.

Common area for improvement #6: Time management

Time managementCoaching will equip your teenager with the skills needed to manage his or her time effectively.

Your teen will learn how to reduce procrastination and overcome distractions. Your teen will also learn how to stay organized and prioritize well.

These time management skills will benefit your teenager both in the short term and the long term!

Common area for improvement #7: Study skills

As a parent, you know it can sometimes be hard to get a teen to study.

Some teens lack the motivation to study, while others need more practical support. Coaching addresses both of these issues.

If your teenager doesn’t know how to study effectively, ensure that the coach you engage is able to teach study skills.

Here’s what to look for in a coach…

The right coach is uniquely qualified to guide teens to become motivated, confident, and responsible. The right coach empowers teens to thrive and to maximize their potential.

So what factors should you consider when looking for a coach for your teen?

1. Experience and background

Look for a coach who specializes in working with teens. Choose a coach who has experience working with teens who face similar problems as your teen.

2. Expertise

Take a look at the articles and books the coach has written, the videos the coach has published, the interviews the coach has done, the talks the coach has given, etc. These should demonstrate the coach’s knowledge and expertise.

3. Professional development

You’re looking to engage someone who will inspire your teen to grow and develop. So the coach you choose should be an example of someone who embraces lifelong learning. Coaches who continually strive to improve themselves are in the best position to mentor your teenager.

4. Proven results

Read the testimonials and success stories of the coach’s previous clients to see if the coach has a proven track record.

Questions to ask a potential coach

QuestionsIf you’ve found a coach for your teen who seems suitable, here are some questions to ask:

Question #1: What coaching methodology do you use?

Find out how the coach plans to guide your teen toward making positive changes.

What approaches or techniques does the coach use? What is his or her coaching philosophy? What makes his or her approach effective?

Question #2: Do you offer a trial session?

A trial session is a great way to see how well your teen and the coach get along. The better the connection, the more likely it is that your teen will benefit from the coaching sessions.

Question #3: What’s your availability like?

Given your teen’s schedule and commitments, does the coach have available slots to work with your teen? Can the coach start the sessions right away, or is there a waiting list?

Question #4: What’s the structure of the coaching sessions?

Here are some related questions:

  • What’s the recommended frequency of the coaching sessions?
  • How long is each session?
  • Will you provide periodic updates to the parents?
  • Do I pay for the sessions one at a time, or do you offer some kind of package?
  • What’s your refund policy?

Conclusion

No matter what challenges your teenager is facing, I hope you’re now convinced that he or she would benefit from coaching.

And after reading this article, I hope you also know how to choose the right coach for your teenager.

Over the past decade, I’ve spent many thousands of hours coaching teenagers 1-to-1. It brings me incredible joy to see my teenage coaching clients become motivated, confident, resilient, purpose-driven, and responsible!

To find out more about the 1-to-1 coaching program I offer for teenagers, visit this page. Or you can also click the link in the box below…

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Coaching for Teens: Can It Help My Teen to Become Motivated?

Updated on August 28, 2025 By Daniel Wong 1 Comment

coaching for teens

Are you having a hard time getting your teenager to study, do chores, or participate in family activities?

Maybe you’ve noticed that your teenager seems unmotivated and directionless.

You’ve been watching your teenager avoid challenges, behave irresponsibly, and spend hours on his or her phone.

As a parent, you’ve been doing everything you can think of to get through to your teenager.

If this sounds like the situation in your home, it’s time to consider engaging a coach for your teenager.

Your teenager’s performance in all areas of life will greatly improve when he or she connects with an experienced coach.

This article explores the purpose of coaching, so you can decide if it’s the right solution for your teenager.

Signs that your teen needs a coach

Here are some indicators that your teen would benefit from working with a coach:

Sign #1: Your teen lacks motivation or has a negative attitude

skipping class

A particular situation or event can cause teenagers to develop negative thoughts and a negative attitude.

For example, your teen may dislike a particular teacher, so he or she stops attending class.

Or maybe your teen feels overwhelmed by everything going on in school, so he or she procrastinates as a way of escape.

A coach can help your teen to become more self-aware and inspire your teen to change for the better.

Sign #2: Your teen lacks organizational skills

Here are some signs that your teen lacks organizational skills:

  • Your teen forgets to submit homework on time
  • Your teen misplaces his or her personal items
  • Your teen doesn’t plan ahead
  • Your teen doesn’t prepare well for tests and exams
  • Your teen doesn’t keep track of events and deadlines
  • Your teen doesn’t prioritize well

A coach can work with your teenager to equip him or her with the planning and organizational skills needed to cope with the demands of school, extra-curricular activities, etc.

This process will also prepare your teen for the future, where organizational skills will matter even more in the workplace and in managing adult life.

Sign #3: Your teen is addicted to texting, gaming, social media, videos, shows, etc.

Do you frequently find your teenager in front of the TV, computer, or on his or her phone?

It’s easy for teenagers can get caught up in the digital world, which is often entertaining and addictive.

A coach can work with your teenager to find the right balance. A coach can also enable your teenager to develop healthy habits when it comes to screen time.

Sign #4: Your teen gives up easily or struggles with anxiety

Teens who lack resilience often give up when they’re faced with challenges or with tasks that require significant effort.

If this describes your teen, a coach can work with him or her to get to the root of the issue. A coach can guide your teen toward developing perseverance and a strong work ethic.

Sometimes teens need to learn strategies to break down big projects into smaller tasks. They may also need to learn to view challenges positively instead of negatively. A skilled coach will be able to help your teen in these areas too.

What benefits will your teen receive through working with a coach?

teen coach

An experienced coach is trained to help teenagers overcome their struggles so they can confidently face the future.

Here are some benefits your teen will receive through working with a coach:

Benefit #1: Your teen will develop a sense of purpose

Coaching will change your teen’s perception that school, extracurricular activities, family commitments, etc. are boring or pointless.

When teens have a strong sense of purpose, they naturally develop intrinsic motivation in all areas of their lives.

Benefit #2: Your teen will find a renewed passion for learning

At times, it may seem impossible for you to motivate your teen to study. But with support from a coach, your teen will take ownership of his or her education.

A coach will guide your teenager to develop traits like focus, confidence, and discipline. Your teen will start to take school seriously and will become an effective student.

Benefit #3: Your teen will become responsible and will make good decisions

Irresponsible choices can lead teens down the wrong path in life. Coaching will help your teenager develop responsibility and make wise decisions.

A coach will ensure that your teen has the right foundation for becoming a trustworthy and competent adult. When faced with tough choices, your teen will be equipped to choose the best path forward.

Benefit #4: Your teen will build healthy habits

Healthy habits are the building blocks of a successful and balanced life. But it isn’t always easy for parents to get their teenagers to develop new habits or eliminate harmful behaviors or thought patterns.

This is where coaching comes in.

A coach will teach your teenager how to develop the right habits and will ensure that the habits formed are permanent.

Benefit #5: Your teen will plan for the future

A coach will guide your teen to think long-term instead of short-term. Your teen will plan for the future effectively and set meaningful goals that he or she feels inspired to work toward.

At the same time, your teen will implement customized strategies to reach those goals.

Conclusion

happy parent and teen

At some point, most teenagers will lack motivation, focus, and direction.

I encourage you to get help for your teen as soon as possible, before the situation worsens.

After reading this article, I hope you’re now aware of how your teen would benefit from coaching.

To learn more about choosing a suitable coach for your teen, read this article next. Alternatively, you can click the link in the box below…

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Unmotivated Teenagers: What’s Really Going On? (And How Parents Can Help)

Updated on August 28, 2025 By Daniel Wong 19 Comments

unmotivated teenagerAre you concerned that your teenager isn’t making the most of his or her potential?

Or do you worry that your teenager lacks focus?

Unmotivated teenagers cause their parents a lot of stress and frustration.

During adolescence, teens often deal with challenges like peer pressure, bullying, school-related stress, etc. These issues can affect teens’ motivation by causing them to feel overwhelmed or lost.

Parenting teens is hard, and you’re not alone if you feel like you’ve tried everything to motivate your teenager.

This article explores the possible explanations for what’s going on with unmotivated teenagers. We’ll also explore what you – as a parent – can do to help.

Of course, there are times when unmotivated teens will need professional support. This is something that we’ll discuss toward the end of the article.

Let me start by asking this question…

Why does your teenager lack motivation?

It’s essential to understand what your teenagers are going through before concluding that they’re “unmotivated.”

Perhaps you even wonder if you are doing enough to keep your teenagers motivated.

So let’s take a closer look at these 8 common reasons for teens’ lack of motivation.

Reason #1: Your teen feels discouraged or overwhelmed

Tired teenager

Growing up and developing into a young adult is a journey that has many ups and downs. Teenagers frequently feel overwhelmed, both in school and in their personal lives.

When it comes to school, the workload alone can feel daunting. Whether they’re struggling to focus in class or are unable to keep up with the work, your teenagers may be feeling distressed.

As teens get older, the material they learn in school gets significantly harder. At the same time, they become busier with extracurricular activities and their social life.

As such, most teens struggle to lead balanced lives.

Over time, self-doubt can arise in teenagers. On the outside, this may look like a lack of motivation, when the underlying emotion is actually discouragement.

Here’s where you can guide your teenagers toward understanding the power of focus and time management. Talk to them about which activities they could focus on and which to scale back on.

Of course, you should make it clear that you’re there to support your teens, but that they are fully responsible for their choices.

Reason #2: Your teen isn’t taking care of his or her physical health

Teenagers crave independence and want to make their own choices. Teens want to exercise their decision-making abilities in many areas, including their food choices, the physical activities they participate in, and when they go to bed.

Teens who consume sugary drinks and unhealthy snacks will have poor energy levels. The same thing will happen if they don’t exercise regularly.

Research shows that sedentary behavior can lead to anxiety, depression, poor mental capacity, loss of concentration, and even a decline in memory. Being sleep-deprived – which most teens are – doesn’t help the situation!

Considering the factors above, you can see why your teen might lack enthusiasm or seem listless. Proper diet, exercise, and sleep are essential elements for students who are motivated to give their best.

To help your teens lead a healthy lifestyle, you can try organizing family outings that involve hiking or biking. Even going for a walk as a family once or twice a week is a good start.

You can also plan healthy dinners. Remove junk food from your home and keep healthy snacks on hand.

And it’s vital that you lead by example in taking care of your own physical health!

Reason #3: Your teen feels like he or she is being micromanaged

micromanaged teen

Nobody likes to be micromanaged.

Statistics show that 59% of adults have experienced being micromanaged at some point in their working life. Of those who reported working for a micromanager, 68% said it had decreased their morale, and 55% claimed it had hurt their productivity.

Your teens aren’t your employees, but you may be treating them like they are.

Teens crave independence and being trusted to make their own decisions.

So if you talk down to your teens, it can result in rebellious behavior. They may start to act out and defy your instructions.

Be mindful not to control every aspect of your teenagers’ lives. If safety isn’t an issue, allow them to make their own choices as far as possible. Some relevant areas would be clothes, food, choice of friends, and when they do their homework.

The more control you exert, the more likely they’ll be unmotivated teenagers.

Instead, include your teens in the decision-making process as much as possible. This would be applicable when it comes to establishing rules and boundaries.

By doing this, your teenagers will be more likely to comply with those rules. This means that you won’t be forced to micromanage them, so it’s a win-win situation!

Reason #4: Your teen doesn’t see the purpose of what he or she is being asked to do

How often have you asked your teens to complete some chores or to stop using their phone so much?

And how often have your teens ignored your requests?

Teenagers won’t want to do these things if they don’t understand or agree with the reasons you give them.

You may think you’re dealing with unmotivated teenagers. But maybe they just don’t see why they need to do the chores now instead of later, or why they should stop using their phone when they’ve already completed their homework.

Focus on the intrinsic value of what you’re asking your teens to do, e.g. contributing to the family, becoming a more disciplined person, developing traits like commitment and perseverance.

Of course, it’s important that you periodically talk to your teens about what values matter to them. It’s also important that you appreciate your teens sincerely when they fulfill their responsibilities.

When your teens focus on the intrinsic value of what they’re doing – not just on the practical benefits they’ll receive – they’ll develop a sense of purpose. They’ll also find the inner motivation to do the things that matter.

Reason #5: Your teen doesn’t know how to prioritize

messy roomThe concept of organization doesn’t just apply to items your teens own. It also refers to how your teens prioritize their tasks.

Prioritizing allows your teens to sort through everything on their agenda and decide how best to complete those tasks.

Teens who haven’t learned how to prioritize often feel like they don’t know where to start. They end up getting distracted instead, which causes them to seem unmotivated.

If your teens know how to create lists and keep track of events and deadlines, they’ll be less stressed. They’ll procrastinate less, and they’ll stay on top of their tasks.

According to research, people who finish their most difficult tasks first are more productive than people who start with their easy tasks.

Reason #6: Your teen feels forced into doing things

No one likes to feel pressured into doing things they don’t want to do – teenagers especially.

So don’t spend too much time trying to force your teen to behave in a certain way, or you’ll both end up feeling frustrated.

Many parents use rewards to motivate their teens to perform certain tasks. But if you use this approach frequently, your teens will become outcome-oriented instead of process-oriented.

They’ll start to focus on the benefits they’ll receive if they perform the task, rather than focusing on the intrinsic value of the task. This will result in long-term negative consequences.

What’s more, your teenagers are likely to become more unmotivated over time.

So what should you do instead?

Try having a problem-solving conversation with your teens. Understanding their perspective will help you learn what support they need. You’ll also learn how you can be a better parent to them.

Make sure to use active listening techniques when speaking with your teenagers, e.g. maintaining eye contact, paying attention to body language, asking clarifying questions. Your teens will be more willing to share how they feel if they know you’re really listening to them.

Reason #7: Your teen has a learning disability

unhappy teen

Learning disabilities can hinder a teen’s ability to comprehend or retain information.

Simple equations may be challenging to remember, or basic grammar rules may cause confusion.

Here are a few common learning disabilities:

  • Dyslexia. This is a learning disorder in which people find it hard to read. This is because of problems identifying sounds of speech and how they relate to letters.
  • Dyscalculia. This is a learning disorder that causes people to have trouble learning math. These difficulties can include problems doing both basic and abstract math.
  • Dysgraphia. This neurological condition makes it difficult for people to turn their thoughts into written words. This can also affect handwriting and writing speed.

A related condition is attention deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD). This is a neurodevelopmental disorder that leads to poor planning and time management, impulsiveness, a lack of concentration, disorganization, etc.

Reason #8: Your teen doesn’t have a mentor or coach

A mentor or coach is the little-known factor that enables teenagers to become both successful and happy.

It’s hard for parents to mentor their teens. This is because teens often interpret parental advice as nagging or lecturing.

Having a mentor benefits teenagers as they navigate their educational and life journeys. Research even shows that teenagers with mentors experience higher levels of life satisfaction.

Finding someone to fill this role can be challenging because it’s rare to have a family friend or relative who can serve as a mentor. Few adults can fully understand your teen’s challenges and guide your teen effectively.

This is where a more formal arrangement – like engaging a coach – can help.

Professionals who can help your unmotivated teen

Therapy sessionIf your teenager lacks motivation or faces other related challenges, you might be considering engaging a professional to help him or her.

Professional support comes in many forms, each serving a different purpose.

Here are the professionals who may be able to help your teen, depending on what issues your teen is dealing with:

1. Therapist or counselor

Main objective: To help teens work through trauma or emotional distress.

A therapist or counselor can help teens work through emotions related to trauma, physical abuse, or other situations causing ongoing emotional distress.

2. Psychologist or psychiatrist

Main objective: To treat teens who have mental disorders and mental illnesses.

A psychologist can help teens who have emotional problems and provide treatment for mental health-related issues. This often involves some kind of behavioral therapy like cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT) or dialectical behavioral therapy (DBT).

A psychiatrist is a medical doctor who treats mental illnesses. Psychiatrists frequently prescribe medications that they think may help the patient’s condition.

3. Tutor

Main objective: To help focused and driven teens improve in specific academic areas.

Engaging a tutor is a good option for teens who are already motivated and focused, but who just need some additional assistance in a specific subject.

4. Coach

Main objective: To equip teens with the mindset and tools needed to become motivated, focused, confident, resilient, and responsible.

Engaging a coach is a solution that many parents haven’t considered.

Coaches specialize in guiding teens who are going through a difficult time, who have a learning disability, who lack motivation, or who are struggling to overcome various challenges.

Coaches help teens become more resilient, understand the importance of education, overcome a negative mindset, develop planning and organizational skills, etc.

So if your teens don’t have a strong sense of purpose, give up easily, frequently get distracted, or lack self-confidence and a sense of responsibility – then connecting them with a coach will benefit them tremendously.

A coach might be just what your teen needs!

To learn more about how your teen might benefit from coaching, read this article next. Or you can also click the link in the box below…

READ THIS ARTICLE NEXT:

Coaching for Teens: Can It Help My Teen to Become Motivated?

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8 Bad Study Habits You Need to Eliminate Immediately

April 19, 2022 By Daniel Wong 17 Comments

student overwhelmed with study materialsAre you ready to get rid of your bad study habits permanently?

Maybe you’ve picked up a few ineffective study habits over the years.

Maybe you’re tired of feeling stressed out and overwhelmed — like no matter how hard you study, you’re always behind.

Well, I’ve got good news for you…

With the right strategies and mindset, you can achieve academic success.

Once you eliminate the 8 bad study habits discussed in this article, you’ll become a better student. You’ll also be more prepared for life after school.

So let’s explore this list of bad habits for students — and my tips for what to do instead — so you can start getting better grades today.

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Bad habit #1: Procrastinating until the last minute

Do you wait until the night before an exam to crack open your textbook and review your notes?

Do you struggle to begin homework assignments, even when your stress levels are rising and the deadlines are fast approaching?

If so, you’re not alone. According to the American Psychological Association, 80 to 95% of college students and 86% of high school students struggle with procrastination!

But just because procrastination is a common problem, that clearly doesn’t make it an effective study habit.

Cramming doesn’t work. So if you want to do well in school, you need to study smarter.

You need to get the basics right and do things like:

  • Plan out your day and week in advance.
  • Set aside regular blocks of time for homework and study sessions.
  • Periodically review the material covered in class.

(If you still feel too overwhelmed to get to work, learn how to motivate yourself to study with these 23 tips.)

Bad habit #2: Studying in front of the TV or with digital devices next to you

student studying in front of laptopAfter an exhausting day at school, you still have a long list of homework assignments to complete.

You’re tired of sitting at a desk, so you cosy up on the sofa with your textbook and homework.  It’s too quiet, so you turn on the TV.

What’s the problem with this?

Soon you have one eye on your homework and the other on the TV.

To avoid poor study habits, it’s vital that you remove as many distractions as possible. That includes your smartphone and tablet, too.

I recommend setting up a dedicated study space where you can control the environment for optimal study sessions.

Leave your digital devices in a different room so you’re not tempted to use them. By doing this, you’ll learn how to focus when studying and have more time to enjoy your favourite shows later.

Pro tip: Any place you associate with relaxation — like your bed — isn’t an optimal place to study. So make a commitment today not to do any work while lying in bed!

Bad habit #3: Memorising your notes without fully understanding the material

Memorising your notes might help you ace a test in the short term, especially if it’s an easy test.

But rote memorisation won’t help you retain information for the long term.

So focus on understanding all the new material that’s covered in class. Process and summarise what your teacher says by jotting down notes that make sense to you.

You’ll retain information more effectively and set yourself up for success when you learn how to take notes properly.

Put any new information into context by connecting it to your existing knowledge.

And if you just can’t understand certain concepts or equations, ask your teacher for help. Do this as soon as possible so you can clarify your doubts way before the next test or exam.

Bad habit #4: Being disorganised

No list of bad study habits for students would be complete without mentioning a lack of organisation.

I know it’s hard to stay organised as a busy student. But being disorganised leads to forgotten exam dates, missed assignments, and plenty of stress.

So take 5 to 10 minutes each day to put things in order. Do things like:

  • File your class notes and material.
  • Write down the tasks you need to complete for the day.
  • Check your calendar or planner to see what events and deadlines are coming up.
  • Clear your desk.
  • Throw away or recycle old papers or brochures that you no longer need.

It doesn’t take much time to create a calm, organised environment so that you can achieve your academic goals and be successful in school.

Bad habit #5: Not asking for help when you need it

student and teacher discussing workLike we talked about briefly earlier, if you have a question about a concept or an assignment, don’t hesitate to ask your teacher for guidance.

Everyone has questions — it’s just that straight-A students ask for help when they need it.

Regularly review your notes and flag any questions you might have by highlighting the relevant section or by using sticky notes.

Find an opportunity to speak with your teacher (or a knowledgeable classmate) to get these questions answered.

If you do this consistently, you’ll keep up with the material and avoid feeling stressed the night before the exam.

Bad habit #6: Multitasking

What looks like multitasking is really switching back and forth between multiple tasks, which reduces productivity and increases mistakes by up to 50%.
– Susan Cain

We’ve all been there before…

A few minutes into a study session, you remember that you need to reply to a text about a group project. So you unlock your phone and send that text.

Then you read another page of your textbook, and a line in the chapter reminds you of a video you’ve been meaning to watch. The video is only a few minutes long, so you decide to watch it right away.

Now you’re back to studying. But wait — do you have a math test next week? You’d better check on that now before you forget.

You then realise that you’ve been “studying” for an hour, but you’ve hardly made any progress!

Here’s the thing…

Multitasking doesn’t work. It makes you less productive and more distracted because you’re just switching between tasks.

Instead of switching between assignments or trying to do multiple tasks at once, focus on one thing at a time.

If a distracting thought pops into your head, jot it down on a notepad. You can return to this list at the end of your study session.

Bad habit #7: Neglecting your physical health

apple or doughnutExercising, eating well, and getting enough sleep are essential habits that will impact your health and well-being.

You might think that you’re too busy to take care of your physical health.

But if you take care of your physical health, the science shows that you’ll actually be more focused and productive!

It is possible to become a top student while leading a healthy, well-balanced life. You can start with these simple tips:

  • Do some form of exercise every day, even if it’s just a brisk 10-minute walk.
  • Keep a water bottle and healthy snacks on or close to your desk.
  • Stick to a bedtime routine that helps you to wind down.
  • Wake up and go to sleep at around the same time each day.
  • Do deep breathing exercises to help you manage stress.

Bad habit #8: Always studying alone

Sometimes you need to study alone to maximise your focus and understand new material.

Other times, you might find it helpful to study with a small group of motivated students. Studying in a group is a fun way to keep yourself accountable and eliminate bad study habits.

When I was in university, I remember taking a class where the homework assignments were extremely tedious and challenging. By doing the assignments at the same time as my study groupmates, I felt far more motivated to complete the work.

Another advantage to studying in a group is that you can support one another when you have questions.

You can get the answers you need while helping your groupmates to do the same.

Pro tip: Keep the size of your study group to 3 or 4 students to minimise distractions.

In closing…

If you eliminate these 8 bad study habits, you’ll be on your way to becoming an effective student.

But I know that students often need some extra support.

That’s why I’ve created The Perfect Study Plan online course. It’s a proven, easy-to-follow course that will enable you to stop procrastinating and to start acing every exam you take.

Learn more about the study skills and exam preparation course here and discover the step-by-step system you need to become a top student who leads a balanced life too!

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Filed Under: Attitude, Discipline, Education, Success, Time Management

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