Monday, February 3, 2014

5 ways to avoid Groundhog Day Syndrome

In honor of Groundhog Day yesterday, the School of Business has provided its students with 5 ways to avoid Groundhog Day Syndrome as they work toward success this semester.

In a study by Ronald Riggio published in “Psychology Today,” Groundhog Day Syndrome is the feeling of living the same thing over and over again or feeling stuck in an everyday routine, which makes it seem like life is passing you by. Try these tactics to break out of your rut.

How to avoid Groundhog Day Syndrome:

1. Mix up your morning.  There is nothing worse than starting your day off the same way every day. Tomorrow morning, take a new route to class or work. A little sight-seeing with the windows down on the way will jump start your day and keep you energized.

2. Take a risk. Today, raise your hand in class and comment or present a new perspective to a topic. Don’t sit idly by; get engaged. You’ll not only feel better, but you’ll remember what you did that day when the test comes around.

3. Make a new friend. It’s never a bad idea to meet new people. Go out of your way to sit by someone new on the bus or strike up a conversation with a peer in the office. Even if it doesn't turn into friendship, you’ll feel good about interacting with someone new.

4. Be Creative. It’s easy to get lost in homework and responsibilities at work, but it’s important to have a creative outlet. This week, start a new project or make a list of things you want to accomplish over the next month. Go ahead and start thinking about the future. This will pep you up and make everyday work seem less mundane.

5. Break a Sweat. You've heard it once and you’ll hear it again; exercise does wonders. Making time to work out will not only better your health, attitude and mood, but also give you an outlet for “you time.” Exercise boosts brainpower, leading to a more productive day.

by Mackenzie Leander