Following the end of winter break and the beginning of a new semester, many students find themselves facing a drop in grades with deadlines that feel impossible to meet, tests that get more and more difficult, and motivation that is practically nonexistent. This is the dreaded phenomenon known as the third-quarter slump. The third-quarter slump is widespread and felt by high schoolers, middle schoolers, college students, and even faculty.
When asked why this lull occurs, junior Priscilla Abimbola said, “Students are tired of coming to school and doing work all the time.” After a restless semester of studying and worrying about grades, students feel too burnt out to continue and complete a whole new semester, repeating and re-feeling the anxiety they had during the first one.
“We get apathetic towards school,” said another junior Zainab Shaikh, offering a new perspective on the third-quarter slump, “We have the rest of the semester to bring our grades up, so we get a bit careless.”
Finding a balance between your schoolwork and time to yourself is crucial to overcoming this slump, but that is easier said than done. Below are three ways to decompress while still maintaining a focused mind.
Talking about it:
Although a basic suggestion, talking is one of the best ways to beat a slump. Interacting with others helps improve your mood and gives you some much-needed human interaction. Your friends can also give you advice and encouragement that can help in ways you have not thought of yet.
Going on walks:
The gloomy atmosphere that comes from the bleak winter weather contributes to the decrease in motivation and depressing mood. However, with spring just around the corner, the temperature rising, and the sun brightening up the sky, the prospect of going outside brings elation. Whether you have a destination in mind or you just want to stroll around, going on a walk and soaking up the sun can bring your energy up exponentially and help beat your slump.
Spending less time on your phone:
In this digital age, we spend so much time on our phones, constantly consuming media. Taking a break from scrolling on your phone and, instead, taking in the world around you can help you feel much more present, focused, and relaxed.
