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FOCUS FOCUS FOCUS...ON WHAT?
So... I'm currently in grad school half way thru my class and I can't seem to concentrate at all on anything. Unfortunately I am feeling the effects of this COVID19, possibility of loosing my job, and failing my class. I'm struggling with staying focused on the present! I'm struggling to have the push to finish my classes. I'm also second guessing what is life in general and what steps I need to take to make my life happier. Hobbies, I do need one.... Why am I really going to grad school?? Feel free to send some loving energy my way in the comments. Venting is life right now.
Robyn WickHiEd Professional/PT Fitness Inst
747
04/20/20 at 1:55PM UTC
I am on the other side of that grad school - I run a grad program for working professionals. Just know that you are not alone. A lot of my students are feeling the same way. Uncertainty is hard. This is hard. Know that your faculty and administrators are understanding and will help you, so reach out to them. But also, be kind to yourself. Give yourself breaks, approach school work in smaller chunks, and know that you can do this.
Jackie RukaProfessionalHappyologist Thrive in your purpose.
2.73k
04/18/20 at 7:09PM UTC (Edited)
I second guessed myself going through grad school too and that was way before this crazy pandemic. I did see it through with some resistance however I realized I was doing way too much. Had no time for a social life and my job was unfulfilling but worked into my grad school schedule. In all honesty, the tougher school became the more I felt this was not what I thought it would be? As Maya Angelou said, if you don’t like something, change it. If you can’t change it, change your attitude about it. For me, I had to step into gratitude. I was receiving a top notch education, had an easy peasy job and started embrace my inner warrior. I knew I could do it but I had to fix my fatigue and burnout. I suggest you get lots of rest. Take breaks and reward yourself with your favorite activity or a brisk walk outside. Ask for help, with your school work if you are getting behind and lastly, fire the itty bitty shitty committee in your head.
RaeJust a 30 something grad student trying to ADULT
198
04/19/20 at 3:09PM UTC
I also forgot to add... because I know I'm hard on myself its hard for me to accept I need these breaks and it's ok to change your mind about things. Just being able to CONSCIOUSLY accept that is the struggle ugh...
Jackie RukaProfessionalHappyologist Thrive in your purpose.
2.73k
04/19/20 at 7:56PM UTC (Edited)
You are all you have got. Remember you come first. This is a good time to reorganize your time and schedule self care, cut out what’s toxic a, eat healthy, listen to soothing music to calm your brain and nervous system and perhaps cut back on your work hours or take one less class to better form work-life integration. You are more powerful than you realize especially when you are operating from a top notch level of performance. You are in charge of you, no one else.
RaeJust a 30 something grad student trying to ADULT
198
04/19/20 at 3:07PM UTC
Jackie... exactly I do struggle with self care, my job is not easy it's challenging especially right now with policies changing in regards to healthcare. Honestly all I've been doing is sleeping, laying in bed and this has helped me a lot (pretending I'm not a grad student) in order for me to not have a mental break down. Thank you, ..and loving the Mya Angelou quote.
Kathleen ORegistered Financial Adviser for women.
120
04/17/20 at 12:45PM UTC
You have a first-world "problem". Just think how FORTUNATE you are to be in grad school. Toughen-up and use this time to get the best grades possible. You have one shot at this (grad school) Don't sabotage yourself. Exercise A LOT when you are not studying or working, then you will be too tired to think about what could go wrong! I've been in your shoes, I know how you are feeling. You will be OKAY!
RaeJust a 30 something grad student trying to ADULT
198
04/19/20 at 3:10PM UTC
Thank you!!
Jackie GhedineCoach Gen X Women|Host Modern GenX Woman podcast
6.03k
04/15/20 at 2:40PM UTC
RRB, I feel you!
I just posted about this on LinkedIn yesterday, my ability to focus since all of this started has diminished greatly so I'm finding new ways to be productive.
I need to give myself more mental breaks and do some of my heaviest thought work early in the day when it's just easier for me to concentrate.
I feel you - sending lots of good wishes.
RaeJust a 30 something grad student trying to ADULT
198
04/19/20 at 3:11PM UTC
Yes yes mental breaks are great! Thank you!
