5 Reasons Why You Don’t Feel Like Studying (and how to fix them)

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You’re a week out from an important event, whether it be an examination, a report, or a presentation requiring you to study. You know what the topics are and everything should be smooth sailing. But there’s one problem… You don’t feel like studying.

We’ve all been there, haven’t we?

Ahead, we’ll discuss 5 possible reasons why you don’t feel like studying. We’ll also look at what you should do if you don’t feel like studying.

5 Reasons Why You Don’t Feel Like Studying

#1 You’re Overwhelmed by the Topics You Have to Study

Have you ever felt overwhelmed by the amount of information you still have to learn?

This can be a common reason for not wanting to study.

When you’re overwhelmed, it feels like no matter how much time you spend studying, you’ll never get through everything.

This can lead to feeling down and unmotivated to start learning.

If this is the case for you, try breaking down the topics into smaller chunks. Dedicate some time each day to focus on one particular topic.

Once you feel like you have a better understanding of that topic, move on to the next one.

By approaching your studies in this way, you’ll gradually work through everything and won’t feel so overwhelmed.

The problem arises when you still have lots of study materials but not enough time to get through them.

This commonly happens when you’re procrastinating which leads to cramming—a proven ineffective strategy for learning.

Related post: Should You Study The Night Before a Test?

#2 You’re Bored of Studying the Same Thing

If you’ve been studying the same thing for a while, it’s only natural to feel bored. When we get bored of something, we generally don’t want to do it anymore.

To fix this, try mixing up your study routine. If you usually read through your notes, try listening to a podcast or watching a YouTube video on the topic instead.

If you’re used to listening to lectures, try reading a textbook or some articles on the internet.

There are plenty of different ways to learn, so find what works best for you and mix things up!

Another good strategy would be to switch to a different topic.

When you feel like you’re not making any progress on a certain topic, take a break and move on to a different topic.

You can always come back to the topic you were bored with.

Related post: Reading Vs. Watching Videos To Learn: Which Is Better?

#3 You’re Feeling Stressed

It’s normal to feel stressed when you have an upcoming deadline.

However, if you’re feeling stressed all the time, it can lead to burnout. When you’re burnt out, you won’t want to do anything, let alone study.

If you’re feeling stressed, try taking some time for yourself.

Dedicate an hour or two each day to do something you enjoy, without thinking about studying. This could be reading, going for a walk, or watching your favorite show.

It’s important to take breaks and relax, otherwise, you’ll never want to pick up your study material again!

#4 You’re Distracted by Technology

In today’s world, it’s easy to get distracted by technology. With our phones constantly buzzing and social media always available, it’s no wonder we can’t focus on our studies!

If you find yourself constantly distracted by technology, try putting your phone away and out of sight.

If that doesn’t work, try downloading a productivity app that will block certain websites or applications for a set period of time.

One that I use and had good success with is the Freedom app. It works with Mac, Windows, Android, iOS, and Chrome and has worked wonders for my productivity.

It’s also important to find a study environment that suits you. If you can’t focus at home, try going to the library or a coffee shop. Some people even like to study in nature!

#5 You’re Having Trouble Understanding the Material

If you’re struggling to understand the material, it’s no wonder you don’t want to study!

When we don’t understand something, we generally get frustrated and give up.

If this is the case for you, try reaching out to your teacher or tutor. They’ll be able to explain the concepts in a different way or provide additional resources that can help.

You could also try studying with a friend or forming a study group. Sometimes, it helps to hear the material from someone else’s perspective.

Is It Normal To Not Feel Like Studying?

It’s normal to not feel like studying from time to time.

However, if you’re finding that you don’t want to study at all, it could be a sign of burnout.

Burnout is a state of physical, mental, and emotional exhaustion. It’s characterized by a lack of motivation and interest in activities that we once enjoyed.

If you’re experiencing burnout, it’s important to take a break and focus on taking care of yourself. This includes getting enough sleep, eating healthy, and taking time for yourself.

Once you’re feeling better, you can start to slowly ease back into your studies.

Related post: How Many Hours Should I Study a Day? (and still, be effective)

Study Tips For Those Who Don’t Like Studying

• Break the study material into smaller chunks – when it’s hard enough to study, don’t make it harder by tackling a mountain of study material all at once.
• Set a goal for each study session – before you start, determine what you want to achieve in that study session. Having a goal will help you stay focused and motivated.
• Find a study method that works for you – some people prefer listening to podcasts, others prefer reading, and others like to watch videos. Find the method that works and use it.
• Make studying fun – if you’re dreading it, try making it more enjoyable. For example, listen to music while you study or take breaks to do something you enjoy.
• Take 5-minute breaks every 30 minutes – one strategy that has worked for me in the past is to take a 5-minutes break every 25 minutes of studying. This is called the Promodoro Method and it’s highly recommended by some of the leading brain coaches.

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• Why Your Mind Wanders While Reading & How To Stop It

Final Thoughts

Don’t let these reasons stop you from studying!

If you find yourself not wanting to study, try to figure out why. Once you know the reason, it’ll be easier to find a solution.

With a little bit of effort, you’ll be back on track in no time!