Now, here comes the dreaded part of the routine. Whether it be studying or finishing up an overdue essay, you must allocate a few hours of the night for academics (or work). The way this works will probably depend on what task you have at hand. Personally, I want to start prioritizing my school work based on their due dates. A lot of times I neglect this and just do whichever I feel like doing. I figured that this (and YouTube) is the root cause to my ridiculous time management issues. Another tip, establish a fixed studying space. Don't go for the bed. It's the devil in disguise. After my experiment, I decided that the desk in my bedroom is best because it's uncomfortable and keeps me from falling asleep.

After tackling your schoolwork, don't hit that bed just yet. Instead, take a minute to prepare for the next day. Doing this will reduce stress in the morning and leave you feeling as if you've got the world in the palm of your hands. Start by packing up your bag, and laying out the little bits and bobs that you plan on carrying the next day. I also decided to make praying before bed a habit. It's good to spare a little time to reflect on the day and express your gratitude. Frankly, I haven't been praying at all these past few weeks, unless I'm at church, and I'm willing to change that. 

Finally, sleep. Yes, sleep. There's nothing to say here other than soft feathery pillows and warm comforters.

Initially, I planned on inserting an 'entertainment & recreation' aspect in this routine. But I learned the hard way that opening YouTube, Bloglovin or Buzzfeed is simply a recipe for disaster. It will, and when I say will I mean WILL sidetrack you from doing what's important. Before you know it, you'll be way past the PM mark with your eyes glued to some unnecessary internet content. I've also decided to shift my blogging time to the early mornings, at around 5AM. You may think I'm crazy to wake up at that hour, but what can I say? I'm a morning person at heart.

So, there you go. six steps that sounds simple, but will surely change the way you live. This is how I chose to do it. Obviously as a student, my routine revolves greatly around my academics. You are more than welcome to modify this to meet with your lifestyle. Whichever way, it's the change that matters most.

☮
Kei

Contradictory to my last post, I'm going to be sharing a smoothie bowl recipe that I've been making for the past two days. It's super easy, and tastes freakin awesome. 

I feel oddly motivated today, even though it's a Monday. I'm also a big believer in self-motivation, so I decided to make these edits for my desktop background, ha. I really like them and feel like sharing them with you. 

Everyone should have a form of self empowerment. It doesn't have to be a God, it can be your Mom, or anything really. I love this verse from Psalms because it's strengthening (cheesy abis), which is seriously needed when you're constantly struggling under the claws of the IB devil.

This last quote can be metaphorical and/or literal. It simply urges for you to be more attentive. I often find myself careless, even over the littlest things. It's good to always remember the little details that often make up for the bigger picture. On the other side, this quote also tells you to get up when you're faced with downfalls. 

Hopefully you can find your motivation to get through the dreaded Monday, or any other day of the week for that matter.