Wellness @ Columbia

Your Healing Space is our weekly newsletter that focuses on YOUR health and wellness.  We hope you'll be able to put these ideas and practices into good use in support of your education and life goals. Your physical and mental health MATTERS.
W@CSubmissions
We want to hear from you! Send us your thoughts on wellness in word or visual form. Select submissions will be shared in future W@C communications. Email Richard your submissions - rchin@colum.edu 

Notes from the Life Coach

This week's submission is from Lauren Targ, Columbia's Academic Life Coach. Lauren helps students work to achieve their goals and get the most out of their Columbia experience. Learn more about Lauren and her program on the Academic Life Coaching website. To schedule an Academic Life Coaching appointment, visit: this site or call 312-369-7645.

Staying Motivated and Focused as a Creative College Student

Here we are in week six, Columbia College Chicago. We have passed the excitement of the beginning of the spring semester, and we are heading toward mid-terms. There has been a lot going on both locally and globally in the world and our College President, Jerry Terrar, has been keeping us well informed of the issues. Staying motivated and focused can be challenging especially when juggling academic responsibilities, personal projects, and external distractions. I thought I might send out some key strategies to maintain your inspiration and productivity:

1. Set Clear Goals – Define your short-term and long-term creative aspirations. Break them into manageable tasks and set deadlines to stay on track.
2. Create a Structured Routine – Establish a daily or weekly schedule that includes dedicated time for creative work, study, and self-care.
3. Find Your Ideal Workspace – Design a comfortable and inspiring workspace that minimizes distractions and enhances creativity. Get out of your bedroom. There are great spaces in the student center, Library, your schools of study and the neighborhood around the college.
4. Stay Inspired – Surround yourself with sources of inspiration such as books, podcasts, or other creatives who challenge and motivate you.
5. Take Breaks Strategically – Avoid burnout by taking short breaks to refresh your mind. Techniques like the Pomodoro method can help maintain focus.
6. Leverage Collaboration – Connect with peers and mentors for feedback, brainstorming, and accountability. Group projects and creative communities can offer new perspectives.
7. Limit Distractions – Use apps or techniques to minimize digital distractions. Set boundaries with social media and notifications to maximize productivity. Put on your own “parental” controls.
8. Stay Physically and Mentally Healthy – Regular exercise, proper nutrition, and mindfulness practices contribute to overall focus and creativity.
9. Celebrate Small Wins – Acknowledge and reward progress to stay motivated and committed to your creative journey.

By implementing these strategies, creative college students like you can maintain motivation, stay focused, and achieve their artistic and academic goals while enjoying the process.

Lauren Targ

Academic Life Coach: Columbia College Chicago

To schedule an Academic Life Coaching appointment, visit this site or call 312-369-7645.