Lockdown tips from a student nurse

As coronavirus continues to affect our daily lives, it is so important to keep ourselves, friends, family and community safe while finding ways to keep our motivation up. I'm a nursing student and here are my top tips.

The Government’s advice is [at time of writing] unchanged – they want us to stay indoors and only leave for essential groceries and medications or - if you are a carer - to support the vulnerable.

We’ve also been told that these restrictions may be staying with us for a while yet. So here are my tips to keep you pushing on rather than flagging at this pivotal moment in 2020.

Regular but short breaks

When you spend a few hours doing your work, ensure you are taking regular breaks otherwise you will burn out quicker and lose focus. Speak to friends or get a drink to refresh your mind.

Meal preparation

I have a terrible tendency to snack often so when I work at home I ensure I have healthy snacks ready to eat, like grapes or chopped apple. I also have a healthy breakfast and lunch to stop me getting hungry during my work time. Eating unhealthy snacks will give you small bursts of energy but then leave you wanting more. Not to mention, having a healthy diet is more important than ever!

Regular exercise

Make the most of that one exercise outing a day. I try to use it for a run or a walk. This will help you get in the right state of mind and focus on what is needed.

Work with a friend

Sick of being alone? Get a friend on video call and work alongside them.I find it helps keep me focussed and, if we have any problems, we can ask each other and discuss them.

Time off

You might work better in the day or at night, but make sure you're also taking time away from studying at a time that suits you to do what you would like, whether that’s watching TV or reading a book. It is also important to get plenty of sleep so you feel refreshed for the next day.

Planning

Routine is important for us all so that we can look forward to the next bit of time we have off. When you have days at home, jobs and home life can get in the way easily so structure is important. Stick to it and you’ll find motivation starts to improve.

Work somewhere away from your bedroom (if possible)

If you’ve been working from your bedroom, try a new space. I live at home with my parents so I spend a lot of time in my room, where everything is. The temptations of things in my room pull me away from my work so where possible, sit at the dining table or somewhere else that you can focus on work and not get distracted.

Good luck, stay safe and stay inside where possible!

Looking to the future

Although our University campuses are closed at the moment, we're still accepting and processing applications for courses starting in September 2020.

If you're concerned about the impact of coronavirus on your studies, exams or university application, check our information and guidance for prospective students. We're here to help.