BUT... there are definitely ways to take care of yourself while studying for the MCAT
Here are some of my favorites:
1. Scheduling, Scheduling, Scheduling
When I say schedule your entire life I truly mean it. If you plan out every hour of studying with exactly what you want to accomplish (make sure to be realistic) then you won't waste time wondering what to do next. This will also help you focus because you know exactly what you need to get done! I found Google Calendar to be the best tool for this. Keep an eye out for a later post about how I studied for the MCAT.
Not only should you schedule your study time, but you should schedule your free time! Set aside time each week to go out with friends, watch a movie, or. go on a hike. Do whatever makes you happy during that time and DO NOT think about the MCAT.
Give yourself an off day if you are studying full time. That's right, you need to pick one day AT LEAST every other week (if not every week) that is completely free. I studied during the school year so I gave myself a half day off every week instead because I wasn't studying full time. I used this day to go to Gameday parties with my friends or Date Party with my boyfriend. I was in a sorority and was determined not to miss out on big events. Studying for the MCAT definitely means dialing back your social life but it does not mean you have to sit in the library all day, everyday for three months.
2. Switch Study Locations
If you like the library that is great! It is a good place to get work done because it really forces you to focus. I personally hate studying in libraries so I moved from coffee shops, to my sorority dining room, to my desk, etc. If you study in one place too long you will start to lose your focus so switch your location every once in a while!
3. Get Outside
This can be as simple as going for a walk everyday or studying outside. Just make sure to get fresh air and sunshine. These things improve your mood and will in turn improve your focus.
4. Exercise
I'm by no means implying that you have to get in a 60 minute cardio workout everyday if that is not your thing (and trust me it was not mine). However, try to take a walk, do a short workout or stretch everyday. Exercising releases endorphins which in turn reduce stress. I personally recommend hiking since it includes getting outside and getting exercise (it can also be social!). Peep the picture of me at the bottom.
5. SLEEP
Okay so I have never understood people who pull all-nighters because I love sleep more than anything (except maybe my dogs) but some of you probably are those people! If you are one of those people, now is the time to stop! While you sleep your brain is solidifying memories from the day. If you do not sleep, your study time is less effective for that day and the next. This is scientifically proven so really... get some sleep.
6. Stop Studying an Hour Before Bed
Trying to fall asleep after 8 hours of studying is impossible. Take an hour between studying and going to sleep to do something mindless and relaxing. You can read a book, watch TV, or hang out with a friend!
7. Studying Productively
This means listening to your body, especially your mental health. There were days (especially at the end of my studying) that I truly felt like I was going to die if I studied for one more minute. Dramatic I know. But honestly, sometimes you just cannot study anymore. Forcing yourself to study through distraction is great, forcing yourself to study through complete exhaustion or burn-out is not. Take a step back, breathe and come back to studying when you feel a little bit better. You might be a tad off your schedule but I promise it will be better in the long run.
8. Have a Support System
Whether it's your family, friends or significant other - make sure you have someone rooting for you. This will help so so much when you are feeling down!
I hope this helps those of you getting ready to take the MCAT
Happy Studying xoxo
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