Ways to Reduce Screen Time For Students.

 

"Sometimes you have to disconnect to stay connected. Remember the old days when you had eye contact during a conversation? When everyone wasn't looking down at a device in their hands? We have become so focused on that tiny screen that we forget the big picture, the people right in front of us". - Regina Brett.

My neighbour a six-year-old boy, is so fond of mobile phones that he completely ignores his studies. If he is not given that phone, he becomes angry and irritated and starts throwing tantrums.

The result is he is happy only when the mobile phone is given. Now, the question is only children are to be blamed? Today parents are so busy building their careers that they do not have time for their children.

The children are either at the mercy of maids or grandparents who like to pamper their grandchildren. What should be done to create interest not only in studies but also in other constructive activities?

According to mayoclinic.org- Encourage unplugged, unstructured playtime. Create tech-free zones or times, such as during mealtime or at night a week. Discourage the use of media entertainment during homework. Set and enforce the daily or weekly screen time limits and curfew zones such as no exposure to devices or screens one hour before bedtime curfew zones.

Though, today the culture of screen time is increasing, there are many benefits to reducing screen time. When you curtail the screen timing, children start taking an interest in other productive activities, their health improves and their creativity gets a boost.

The American Academy of Paediatrics recommends these acceptable amounts of screen time limits.

* No screen time for children under 2.

* One hour per day for children 2 to 12.

* Two hours per day for teens and adults.

By constantly practising in other activities, students can slowly and surely reduce their screen time. Her teachers and parents play a crucial role.

Here are some ways you can reduce screen time considerably.

1. Be accountable.

The student should learn to be accountable for their actions. Parents should set goals that are not only attainable but also intentional. 

Stop watching any kind of device that your teachers and parents have set a time limit. have. You have to have self-control. And understand the benefits of keeping away from screen time.

Student have to learn to be responsible and accountable for their own benefits. 

2. Be realistic.

Parents should set a realistic time lits for watching TV. otherwise, children may get frustrated and rebel. First start with 0 minutes curb then slowly increase the time. 

Make students understand the importance of extracurricular activities, playing outside, and healthy habits. Do not make children go through rigorous punishment. This will actually make them rebel.

Punishment is never the solution to student behaviour. Lovingly, caringly and affectionately make them understand the repercussions of long-time screen watching.

3. Be engaged.

Make children engaged in some constructive but fun and enjoyable activities. These children do not have a place to play so they get bored and their best companion is their mobile phone.

Here, parent's active participation is essential. They must keep children happy mentally, physically and emotionally. 

According to oakridge.com - Redirect their focus by engaging them in activity-based learning. Hands-on projects, science experiments, arts and crafts, and puzzles can be effective tools to keep them occupied in understanding the various subjects.

4. Put devices away.

Teachers and parents should take away their phones when children sit for studying. Even when you fix time to browse the phones, you have to keep an eye on to see what the children are watching.

As far as possible phones should be banned inside the school. We have to accept that these days, students are extremely tech-savvy. But with that, they have to be taught the cons of too much screen time.

You can put away the devices in many ways. Keeping them productively engaged, creating a positive device-free classroom, and indulging in some interesting games.

5. Create a phone-free one at home.

At home also parents should discourage the use of phones as far as possible. The dangers of too much screen time may divert attention from studies.

Make sure to make a phone-free zone like kitchen, bedroom, and car. Try to listen to music, reflect on the day or meditate when commuting instead of using the phone.

Anyway, taking in the phone while driving is a punishable act. Teach your children there is a time and time limit of using the phone and be very strict about it.

6. Get them outside. 

Encourage children to go out and play. Sitting in one place is not good for health. Parents and teachers play a crucial role in talking about the benefits of playing outside and being with nature.

Create a child-safe one and be with them keeping an eye on them for their safety. Make them understand that playing outside gives them a chance to show their adventurous nature and face challenges.

They get a healthy dose of vitamin D from the sun's rays.

7. Schedule time.

If the child throws tantrums for using a phone, then fix a time for using the phone and be very diligent that they stick to the time.

See to it that it doesn't become an addiction. Today even a toddler uses phones or TV to watch rhymes instead of them reciting themselves. 

This trend is becoming viral and patent and teachers have to curb this habit of using phones for every little thing by students. They are not interested in reading books or going to libraries to browse books.

So it becomes very important that parents make a strict time schedule for browsing phones or watching TV.

8. Get involved in extracurricular activities.

Encourage children to participate in extracurricular activities in school. Teach them the benefits of taking part in various activities. 

It boosts their self-confidence, they make new friends or strengthen their already existing friendships. Participating in various activities makes them curious, knowledgeable and smart.

Participating in extracurricular activities students build teamwork, their communication skills improve, and they cultivate a sense of belonging to their school and friends.

Students who participate actively in extracurricular activities show improvement in their academic performance, learn time management, learn essential life skills, and enhance their personal growth and development. 

9. Don't use screen time as a reward.

New research says that parents who reward their children's good behaviour with extra screen time can expect them to spend even more time online. This is not the best idea.

Researchers have also found that children, whose parents dole out screen time as a reward or revoke punishment, spend more time on a smartphone, tablet, computer or in front of the TV than whose parents don't.

Never tempt children to view screen time as a reward. It may backfire.

10. Delete unnecessary apps.

Actually, children are smarter today. By the age of 10, they know all about which apps to download and watch.

This is very dangerous. Parents have to watch over and delete unnecessary apps. It's okay to install apps that teach children some constructive and productive games.

Even some play apps also can be installed that can help children to use their brains like puzzles and other types. But otherwise, remove the apps that allow no purpose.

11. Take regular breaks.

Continuous studying gives you tiredness and atigue. It's necessary to take active breaks in between studies. Every 50-60 minutes, take a 5-10 minutes break.

For your long-term physical, mental and emotional health and achieving goals, you need a productive break..

Use these breaks for a short brisk walk around the building or do some stretching exercises that energise and rejuvenate your mind and body.

There are many disadvantages of continuous screen time. 

Students lose their focus and will not be able to concentrate on their studies. There is a risk of becoming obese becuase when they start watching screens they forget the time.

They completely stop socializing and thus have no friends. Their sleep pattern changes and sometimes even small children spend sleepless nights.

The studies show that they become more violent, and face behaviour problems.

Nothing is lost. Parents have to take time to be with their children guiding them and making them understand the bad effects of constantly watching mobile or TV.

"Children will not remember you for the material things you provided, but or the feeling that you cherished them". - Richard L. Evans.

Conclusion.

Rain or shine, students need not spend time watching TV or mobile. There are many alternatives to that. Parents and teachers have to do researh and find ways to control screen timings.

Today's children have become technology experts and screen time has become a part and parcel of our day-to-day life. Screen time has to be curbed for student's own well-being.

(How do you control the screen time of your children. Please write in the comment box).

 

12 Ways to Manage time Efficiently and Effectively

 

  

    

"Until you value yourself, you will not value your time. Until you value your time, you will not do anything with it". -Scott Peck.  

Student's life is crammed with so many activities like project work, assignments, homework extracurricular activities and other social obligations. So time management plays a very crucial role in their life.                     

Time management is working in a smarter way to enhance your productivity. Good time management helps you to work smarter and not harder. Failing to manage your time properly and efficiently causes stress, tension, and unnecessary worries.

Everyone has 24 hours in a day, so why do some students accomplish more with their time than others?  This is because they follow a disciplined routine, have self-control, and plan, and schedule their work smartly.

There is a similarity between time and money. Both are valuable and limited. Both should be used wisely, protected and budgeted. Learning to manage your time perfectly is not rocket science. With some strategies, anybody can achieve this. 

Students who manage their time effectively, feel that they are more relaxed and tension-free. 

There are many benefits of proper time management.

More productivity- Students who manage their time well, find themselves more productive and feel that they can achieve more success with their grades and marks.

Less stress- Managing your time effectively is an art. You should know how much time should be given to specific activities, studies, and homework.

If you have a concrete plan, you will not be bogged down by your studies or subjects and continue working peacefully.

You can prepare a timetable or a list of work related to studies and according to their importance complete the task without any delay or stress.

Realize your goal- Time management teaches you to be disciplined. When there is no stress, you tend to achieve your goal faster and in a shorter duration.

Well organized- Proper time management keeps you well organized which in turn helps you in less rework and making fewer mistakes. Plan and strategize your studies to decrease any friction and avoid creating problems.

Less wasting of time- The most important thing is to manage your time well. Don't waste your time on insignificant activities and get more work done. This should be your ultimate goal.

More opportunities- Finishing your studies on time gives you a new high. It gives you more time to pursue your hobbies or enhance your other skills. This extra time can be used to learn things you always wanted to learn.

Related Post- 20 underrated skills every student should learn.

Now the question is how to manage time well so that you can accomplish more without any stress.

1- Prioritize your studies.

The first and foremost thing to do is to decide and prioritize your goals or studies. Remember the goal should be achievable, possible, and specific. 

Every little thing should be planned in detail. Set aside time to write to-do lists and follow them sincerely. This will not only keep you stress-free but also make the study easier.

"The key is not to prioritize what is on your schedule, but to schedule your priorities".- Stephen Covey.

2- Set a time limit to complete the work at hand.

In the examination, there is a time limit to complete your paper. You can complete the paper within the time limit because you have prepared and trained yourself to do that. 

The same applies to any task. Learn, prepare, and train yourself to complete the syllabus on time or even better before time. 

This will make you more focused and you will be able to concentrate more on your studies and other work related to your school.

'' Better three hours too soon than one minute too late''- William Shakespeare.

3- Complete your task according to its importance. 

Take a notebook and categorize the studies to be done. 

A- Very important and urgent- This should be done immediately. Don't delay.

B- Important but not urgent- This is not urgent, so give it some time but don't procrastinate.

C- Urgent but not important- This work should be delegated. Never shy away from asking for assistance whenever needed. When and where your presence is not required, give the task to someone who will willingly do it for you. 

D- Not urgent and not important- This work can be done later.

'' If you want to make good use of your time, you have to know what is most important and then give it all you've got''- Lee Iacocca.

4- Have a clear purpose for studies.

You should be very clear in your mind about the studies. This is where your to-do list will be very helpful. This way you will not waste your time unnecessarily.

 Thinking of what should be learned and which subject should be learned gives you tremendous unnecessary stress. To avoid this think what is your purpose for learning or studying.

Studying serves many purposes. that include gaining knowledge and skills, critical thinking, and problem-solving.

"A person with a clear purpose will make progress, even on the roughest road. A person with no purpose will make no progress, even on the smoothest road". -Thomas Carlyle.

5- Make a weekly plan.

Weekly planning helps decide the work to be done. This will help you tremendously. Take some time on Sunday and plan the week's studies in advance to stay away from stress.

Planning and writing them down is always advisable. You can schedule day-wise tasks and so without any tension, you can achieve them.

"Our goals can only be reached through a vehicle of a plan, in which we must fervently believe and upon which we must vigorously act. There is no other route to success". -Pablo Picasso.

6- Prepare your day's work.

As soon as you get up in the morning, mentally prepare for your day's work. If possible make a list and once you complete the task, put a tick mark. 

This way you will know how much you have progressed. And you will not forget any work. Your day's studies should include your homework, (Never take homework for granted. It's very important to finish it).

Other than homework you have your project work and other assignments. Prepare a list and go accordingly.

7- Avoid distractions.

You should avoid any kind of distraction. Nowadays, people waste ( Yes I call it a waste of time) so much on social media sites. 

They spend their time on WhatsApp, Facebook, Instagram, and Twitter. These distractions should be curtailed. This may become an obstacle to achieving your goal.

These platforms are not going to help in any way. In fact, people's posts may decrease your self-esteem and self-confidence.

8-- Don't try to be a perfectionist. 

Do not get discouraged by not being able to complete the work on that particular day. Everyone has moods and a bad day. 

Motivate yourself to complete the unfinished task the next day. You need not get panicky about it.

One thing to always remember is that perfection is not attainable. So never try to be one. You have to give your 100% to your studies and do your work diligently and meticulously.

Related Post- 13 easy and practical ways to focus 100% on studies.

9- Learn to use the waiting time. 

With every one of us, it happens that we may have to wait in lines, at the airport, at the traffic signal, at the railway station, or at the doctor's clinic. 

You can complete much work like learning and byhearting your math formula, remembering your science-related definition and making a call to your family or friends, or simply relaxing and meditating. 

Carry a book wherever you go. You will not have a chance to worry about anything and you will have the best friend in the book reading. 

10- Learn to say NO. 

Never say Yes if you cannot do somebody's work. Politely but firmly say No. Your time is precious. You need not waste it on others and projects, which do not help your mission of achieving your goal. 

Be mature enough to say no immediately without wasting your and others' time. Accept that you cannot please everybody, every time.

I have seen many students bossing over timid students and making them complete their work. But learn to be bold enough to say a firm no.

11- Make a habit of rising early in the morning. 

Wake up one hour early. You will be amazed to see that you can do so much work and also without any tension. 

''Early to bed and early to rise, makes a man healthy, wealthy, and wise'' is an old saying.

The students who wake up early in the morning, show improvement in their academic performance because, in the quiet of the morning, they are more alert and become more focused.

Mornings are less distracted so more productive. It makes students excel in their classes. They become efficient and effective in their studies so that excel in their assignments, and projects.

12- Take a break between studies.

Studies show that the human brain can only focus for about 90 minutes at a time. Take a break in between your studies to relax and get recharged. 

Have some enjoyable, happy moments with your family and friends. This will give a boost and new energy to your mind and body. 

Time management doesn't mean that you have to be obsessed with your to-do lists or checking off the items to be completed frequently. Learn to maintain a relaxed time and study time balance. 

It's very important that you just break away from continuous studying to energise and rejuvenate.

Conclusion.

You must enjoy each and every day and every work to keep your energy level high, boost your morals, and your mind clear and relaxed.

'' Lost wealth can be replaced by industry, lost knowledge by study, lost health by temperance or medicines, but lost time is gone forever''- Samuel Smiles.  

Time is free but it's priceless. You can't own it, but you can use it. You can't keep it, but you can spend it. Once you have lost it you can never get it back.

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13 easy and practical ways to focus 100% on studies?

"Focus is more important than intelligence". -Unknown.

Focus is the key to perseverance. You don't need to be the Albert Einstein of your class but focus completely on what you take up and pay attention to every detail to succeed.

Achieving 100% results is the culmination of focus and concentration. It requires a combination of discipline, effective strategies, and a conducive environment.

Always study with a cool and composed mind. If you are stressed out, you will not be able to achieve the desired outcome. 

Students sometimes are distracted and lack concentration. They constantly need motivation. It's the parent's and teacher's duty to see to it that they don't get panicky in any situation and study in a relaxed manner.

It's okay to get distracted once in a while but the important thing is to look around, get inspired, sideline the laziness, stop procrastinating, and jump right on the track.

Here are some actionable tips to help you enhance your focus and productivity.

1. Set clear goals.

Setting clear goals will give you clarity as to what to study, revise important questions, and not waste on unnecessary topics. You will have less tension and stress because you are sure of your goals. 

Break down your long answers in small chunks and try to remember step by step. This will give you an effective way to complete all the important questions easily. 

Defining your specific goals for each study session, whether it's mastering a concept, completing homework, project work or assignment or even preparing for exams will be easier and you will not be overwhelmed.

You can even write down all your goals or prepare a timetable to be a more effective and efficient way of completing those goals.

2. Make a plan.

Do not spend the whole night studying. This is very dangerous. All night studying and depriving your sleep will not help you to study effectively. 

It will have a serious impact on your physical and mental health. A good night's sleep helps you to stay focused and study efficiently.

In fact, sleep helps consolidate memory which is essential for converting short-term goals into long-term goals. Do not completely isolate yourself in your room locked inside. 

Coming out and refreshing yourself is the key to relax and calm your mind and focus 100% on your studies.

3. Make a proper routine.

Proper planning and following it diligently is a must in any venture. The same applies to the study also. Nobody knows you better than yourself. 

Make a study timetable according to your energy level at different times of the day. When you plan according to your energy level, you will be able to focus and concentrate on your studies 100%.

You must stick to your timetable and follow it religiously. Routines form into habits and habits bring regularity. Regular study is essential to get good grades.

4. Create a dedicated study space.

You may have your favourite study corner or nook. It may be your school library or your own study table at home. The main purpose should be it has to be only for your study material. 

You should not waste your time checking your mobile notifications or social media browsing. Make the place as beautiful and inviting. 

You decorate the walls with some motivational quotes posters. Choose a quiet, well-lit and organized area free from distractions like electronics, clutter or excessive noise.

This will help your mind associate the space with focused learning.

5. Practice mindfulness and stress management.

Incorporate mindfulness techniques like meditation or deep breathing exercises into your routine to manage stress and improve focus and concentration 100%.

These practices can help you stay calm and help you to study at a relaxed pace. It will enhance your attention and focus. It promotes overall well-being physically, mentally, and emotionally. 

It cultivates creativity among students by promoting divergent thinking. Mindfulness is very helpful in managing anxiety and tension.

6. Prioritize active learning techniques.

Engage in active learning methods that promote deeper understanding and retention. There are many ways you can implement these techniques. 

The teacher can guide the class to try techniques like think-pair-share, making students work together in groups, allowing them case studies, one-minute papers or muddiest point papers, and peer activities.

This technique also includes writing, reading, discussing, or problem-solving, Write down what you already know. 

Ask questions, explain what you have read to someone else, and summarise what you have studied. These techniques give you hands-on experience, increase creative thinking, and help develop collaboration skills.

7. Eliminate prorastination.

We all procrastinate in our life but it should not become a habit because it will hamper your studies and grades. You cannot focus 100% on what you are learning.

Be determined and train your brain to not leave your table till you completely finish your planned studies.

 If you try to shake off your laziness and have the willpower to complete your tasks, then the end results will encourage and motivate you to stop procrastinating and finish your studies. Remember procrastination is a thief of joy.

8. Clear your study space.

Keeping your study place neat, tidy and clean helps you to be more focused and concentrated on your studies well. Clear all the things that you don't need on the desk or the table. Keeping your study table clutter-free will have a great positive impact on your mind and body. 

As the saying goes "Everything has a place and everything in its place" works for a more focused study environment. Nowadays you get beautiful, sturdy organisers to keep things neat and tidy. Use them.

Neat and tidy study tables you motivating for study that you enjoy and create an interest.

9. Eliminate distractions.

According to research, the typical student is distracted for at least five out of every 15 minutes they set aside to study. Over time, these distracted moments could add up and have a detrimental effect on their progress.

There are many ways you can eliminate the distractions of phone or social media browsing. Finding the right place to study, writing down a to-do list, putting the phone on 'Do not disturb' mode and taking regular breaks in between studies.

You can listen to music. Research has also found that listening to classical or instrumental music improves concentration.

10. Get enough sleep and maintain a healthy lifestyle.

Prioritise Adequate sleep, a balanced diet, and regular exercise or any kind of physical activity to support your cognitive function and overall well-being. 

These factors can significantly impact your ability to focus and learn effectively. Remember "Health is wealth".

If you do not take care of your health, then you cannot pay attention to studying and this may affect your grade adversely.

11. Reward yourself for accomplishments.

Acknowledge your progress and reward yourself for reaching study goals or completing challenging tasks. This positive reinforcement can boost motivation and encourage continued focus.

The reward or acknowledgement need not be an expensive affair but things you enjoy. Like going to a cafe with friends, going to a movie with family or even having your favourite ice cream.

The purpose is to get motivated and inspired to study more diligently.

12. Seek help when needed.

I have seen students are scared to ask for a doubt and sometimes they fear their teachers and parents. This should be completely avoided.

There is nothing wrong or shameful in asking doubts. You should always clear any doubts about any subject to be confident of that particular subject to get good marks.

If you are struggling to focus or maintain consistent study habits, do not hesitate to seek help from a teacher, tutor, or academic advisor. This can provide personalized guidance and support.

13. Take regular breaks.

Sometimes when you sit to study, you notice that you are just staring at the pages but nothing goes into your brain from the last few pages.

Pushing your focus and concentration power beyond the limits sometimes backfires. Just like exercises make you tired, the same way your mind becomes after continuous studies.

So you must unwind after 30 to 45 minutes of studying to relax and calm your mind. During these breaks, stretch yourself, try breathing exercises, a short 5-minute meditation, or take your eyes away from the screen.

This rejuvenates your entire being.

Conclusion.

To be focused and concentrate on your studies, do not allow your brain to scatter by unnecessary thoughts. I hope with these tips you will get some guidance to focus on your studies 100% and get good grades.

"Focus on what lights a fire inside of you and use that passion to fill a white space. Don't be afraid of the challenges, the missteps, and the setbacks along the way. What matters is that you keep going".- Kendra Scott.

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20 Underrated skills every student should learn.

 

Sometimes students perform poorly in their exams and class tests or even extra-curricular activities. And most of the time, it may not be their fault for their lacklustre performance.

It is teachers' and parent's duty to first find out the reasons for poor academic performance. Finding out where they are lacking and why they have poor grades is pivotal.

I have presented 20 skills that are very important for students and can create the biggest impact on their grades and personal development.

1. Critical thinking-

One of the most simple and effective ways to critical thinking and problem-solving skills is by asking questions. Be curious and inquisitive to know the answers to various questions and doubts in your mind.

Asking questions helps you to explore different perspectives. The questions require students to explain and justify their answers opinions, and reasoning.

These questions can challenge students to think beyond their usual thinking patterns they can consider multiple possibilities, Asking questions takes them to the root of the problems.

Students should foster these two aspects, critical thinking and problem-solving, authentic tasks.  They increase their interest, curiosity, and motivation.

They will apply their knowledge and skills in meaningful ways. The students should have the freedom to ask questions and discuss in the classroom to develop their critical thinking.

Teachers can arrange jigsaw puzzles, pair-share, and project-based learning to develop this skill. Students can work in collaboration with one another, share their opinions, and thoughts, and develop listening skills also. 

These brain-storming sessions can help in developing critical thinking.

2. Creativity.

There are many ways students can develop their creativity. Of course, they are not easy but thinking creatively can be developed. 

Trying new things, reading books that are outside of your comfort zone, and seeking out new perspectives are some of the ways to develop this skill.

According to indeed.com- Creativity is the ability to think about a task or a problem in a new or different way, or the ability to use the imagination to generate new ideas. 

Creativity enables you to solve complex problems or find interesting ways to approach tasks. Developing creativity helps you to view and solve problems more openly and with different possibilities.

Students should have the confidence to conduct experiments with new ideas and keep on trying new things. Research, daring, courage, risk-taking, and persistence are necessary for creativity. 

Creativity helps students to communicate and exchange their ideas and work with others smoothly thus adapting in a collaborative setting. Students learn adaptability and flexibility.

3. Effective communication.

Effective communication plays a significant role in a student's life. It helps them to connect with others efficiently, resolve conflicts amicably, and establish a supportive network.

It gives them satisfaction and a feeling of accomplishment. There will not be any misunderstanding or giving or receiving wrong messages.

According to edutopia.org- The simplest and quickest strategy for improving student behaviour is through effective communication. 

Communication is relatively complex and can be used to prevent behavior, and increase performance, and understanding.

A strong communication skill has many advantages. It motivates students to ask questions. Their body language shows that they respect everyone and gain everyone's support and trust.

4. Time management.

One of the most valuable things to any student is time. A student's life is packed with working towards getting good grades, tuition, extra-curricular activities, project work, and social life.

And also for watching TV, and social media browsing. Time management teaches them self-discipline, and prepares them for success.

There are many ways they can manage their time effectively and efficiently. Keeping a timetable for completing work, doing the most important things first, saying no to unnecessary commitments, and taking time off to relax and unwind.

Time management ensures that you are well prepared in advance, to keep you organized, and focused in your studies. It also increases your confidence and self-esteem.  It increases your productivity. 

Actually, time is the greatest teacher of them all. If you learn the time management skill, you will have less stress, and tension, a positive reputation, more energy for free time, and clear your daily school work.

5. Adaptability.

Adaptability helps you make adjustments to your expectations quickly and move forward to the next task easily. They do this without anger resentment, or stress. 

Life is always unpredictable and not in our control. But students with adaptable nature, function better and even excel when faced with any situation.

Adaptability teaches how to overcome obstacles and hurdles. It makes them furious learners and most importantly they become happy people.

Teachers and parents can help the children adapt by encouraging them to be lifelong learners, eliminate fear of failure, and be resilient and patient.

6. Self-motivation.

This is also a skill that helps students to go ahead in life with a positive attitude and optimistic approach. Students will be more energetic and attentive in class. 

Self-motivated students are more likely to set goals and work toward accomplishing these goals. Self-motivated students are inclined to keep on learning and have the ability to face any challenges that crop up during their study time.

Student can develop their self-motivation in many ways. Choosing the subjects they are interested in, creating a distraction-free study environment, and managing study hours effectively and efficiently.

Studying in a group and discussing the answers with your peers, friends, and classmates can increase your self-motivation.

7. Discipline.

Self-discipline is the cornerstone of a student's personal growth and achievements. It empowers and encourages them in their studies well. 

Self-discipline is a crucial aspect of a student's life. Without discipline, he/she will never achieve good grades. 

Inculcating the habit of being disciplined, has many benefits in their life. It improves their focus and productivity, helps them overcome the fear of exams or failures and their self-control. 

Being self-disciplined makes them use their time effectively, build good habits, and improve their studies. 

As Plato said, "The first and best victory is to conquer self".

In one of the greatest books ever written on discipline, Brian Tracy, motivational speaker and author of "No Excuse: The Power of Self-discipline", details the need for self-discipline and how it is linked to success in different aspects of one's life. 

8. Resilience.

Truth be told, you will never really know just how strong and adamant you are, unless adversity trikes. Then only you will learn.

Resilience is a skill that helps students to adapt and bounce back quickly from stress, failures, setbacks, and hardships. 

Resilience is being able to work through emotional pain and suffering. With resilience, students cope better with burnout and exhaustion, anxiety, and depressed feelings about exams and difficult subjects.

Resilience building is crucial for many reasons. It gives students the strength to face any challenges in their lives. It increases their chances of success.

To build resilience, be open and discuss your problems with your family or friends, be ready to accept changes, focus on positive thoughts, and be strong.

9. Determination.

To be determined is to believe that nothing will stop you. Determination is one of the greatest character traits to possess.

Determination will allow you to doggedly stick to the learning until you understand the concepts well. It's a quality that indicates that you are serious about accomplishing or achieving something despite facing hurdles or obstacles.

Students are tasked with with doing many things in school and to complete these assignments, they need determined focus and effort.

Grit or determination helps students stay committed to their studies even when faced with obstacles, demanding schedules, or academic challenges.

It allows them to maintain their motivation and push through difficult times, ultimately leading to the successful completion of educational goals.

10. Patience-

According to adhelp.myallendigital.com- Patience allows students to make better choices and await the results with patience, boosting their self-esteem, morale and readiness to face new challenges.

Self-confidence is a vital aspect of student's life, enabling them to navigate the competitive outside with resilience. 

Patience helps students to be focused on their studies and persevere throughout their life. It can improve their academic grades.

Patience helps students to stay calm and composed even in stressful situations. Students should realize the importance of being patient in all situations. 

Patience also plays a vital role in developing relationships and bonding between students and teachers. The skill of patience is the ability to wait for the right time to act or respond in a given situation. 

11. Curiosity/inquisitiveness.

"You can teach students a lesson for a day, but if you can teach him/her to learn by creating curiosity he/she will continue the learning process as long as he/she lives". - Clay P. Bedford.

Curiosity or inquisitiveness is a skill that shows how eager you are to learn things. It focuses on the "never give up" or never say die" attitude.

According to ca,bridge.org- curiosity is an important condition for language learning and plays a significant role in learner engagement.

People are better at learning information they are curious about, as curiosity prepares the brain for learning and subsequently learning more enjoyable and rewarding.

Curiosity helps students to remember lessons that might otherwise, go in one ear and out from the other ear because of a lack of concentration.

12. Orgnisational skill.

Being organized helps children/students to use their time more effectively and efficiently. It also helps them to study without stress or tension.

They learn to finish their work within the time limit set. It helps them to be more efficient in their work, manage their time better, and improve their performance in exams.

According to jobscan.com,- Organisational skills are your abilities to manage time effectively, prioritize tasks, set goals, and develop systems for achieving those goals.

13 Stress management-

Stress is an inevitable part of everyone's life. In the modern-day competitive world, students are more stressed out. 

Today's students are stressed because they have more responsibilities, lack proper time management, have wrong eating habits, and do not take time for relaxation and unwinding.

Stress is a natural feeling in a student's life. Sometimes little bit can actually, motivate them to study well and get good grades. 

Stress may help them cope with challenging situations. But most of the time, students feel overwhelmed and may get demotivated to complete their school work.

According to a recent survey conducted by the American Psychological Association, more than 60% of students report feeling stressed daily. 

Students must learn to take it easy otherwise, they may suffer from health issues like fatigue, tiredness, anxiety, and fall into depression.

A little bit of stress is okay but when that worry lingers long, immediate action should be taken. Try to calm your mind and relax.

14 Efficiency-

According to sciencedirect.com- Learning efficiency is a measure of academic progress that takes into account, both performance improvement and the student's learning time.The higher the learning efficiency, the less time it takes for learners to achieve competence.

Remember, family, teachers, peers, and the environment come together to make a student efficient. Students need proper guidance to be efficient. Being a highly efficient student is a process to love and focus on their studies.

Once they start loving their school, their studies, sports, teachers, parents, and family, ultimately start gaining interest in being an efficient student.

15. Dedication-

Dedication is the willingness to give a lot of time and energy to something because it is important. Dedication to your work or studies shows how committed you are towards achieving your goals. 

According to collegemarker.com- Dedication leads to success in the long run. It encourages students to persevere in the face of obstacles and hardships.

Dedication to your work or studies shows how committed you are towards achieving your goals. Some of the dedicated qualities are never missing class, attending extra-curricular classes without skipping and putting in hours of learning and studying to improve their academic results.

16. Networking Skill-

Networking skill provides a way to extend student's horizons beyond the classroom. It's an interaction with peers, teachers, and classmates. They gain insight into their studies and knowledge.

Networking helps students in many ways. they build solid connections and that can help in the classroom as well as outside the classroom.

By networking, students get fresh ideas, improve social skills, find better opportunities, and make new friends. putting themselves in a place where they know people of similar interests and gradually, a recipe for the perfect friendships.

17. Emotional intelligence-

Emotional intelligence is your ability to understand and interact with your own emotions as well as those of others. Emotional intelligence influences your academic grades.

Research has revealed that when it comes to academic performance, emotional intelligence is almost as important as cognitive intelligence and having a conscientious attitude. 

Emotionally intelligent students are better equipped to deal with negative emotions that might hinder their studies. 

Students with high levels of emotional intelligence overcome exam stress faster and overcome boredom. Focus and enthusiastically concentrate on their studies.

"It is not enough to be smart and hardworking. To have the added edge for success, students must also be able to understand and manage emotions". -Unknown.

It proves helpful in subjects like English, History and drama. It helps them build strong relationships.

18. Technology.

According to explovance.com- technology provides students with instant access to a vast amount of information and resources. 

The internet and digital tools allow students to explore various subjects, conduct research and access educational materials that may not be available in traditional textbooks.

Technology helps them by giving positive emphasis to the development of the latest methods for effective education. 

It's also very useful for teachers because it makes teaching not only faster and interesting but also it makes the teaching process scientifically effective, clear, simple, easy and effective.

For students, tech-savvy is the application of scientific knowledge to the practical aims of life. The positive use of technology is, that it enhances and executes the learning process if used wisely and correctly.

19. Financial literacy.

This skill no school teaches. it's very important to know this skill, especially for college students. It includes an understanding of investment and other plans in life.

School students from 8th std onwards should learn about saving, budgeting, and how to never overspend on unnecessary things. 

This builds strong fundamentals for their financial well-being. By developing this skill students learn healthy financial habits that will create a long-lasting impact on their life.

Financial literacy means knowing how to make smart decisions about your money. Patents can instil this skill by giving them monthly pocket money, asking them to keep track of their expenses, opening a bank account and teaching them the importance of saving and investing.

20. Discipline.

Discipline helps students in many ways. It helps to maintain punctuality, peace, and organised school work and life. It helps focus on your studies and goals. 

Discipline teaches students to be concentrated, motivated, and inspired to accomplish many things. Discipline can bring stability to their life.

Students who are disciplined from an early age, are organised which can help them to complete all their school work without stress.

Making a study schedule, avoiding distractions while studying, participating in discussions, and writing exams with integrity are some of the ways to be disciplined.

Conclusion-

Practicing and honing these skills as best as you can, will result in marked improvement in your grades and other school interactions. 

You will become an all-rounded student not only in your class but also in society. You do not need to learn all the skills in one go. Slowly and gradually learn these skills and try to apply them in your life.

Learning these skills will be a super and surefire way to enhance your personality, gain self-confidence and boost self-esteem. 

(What other underrated skills would you add to this list? Let me know in the comment section).

 

17 Ways to be a Good Public Speaker.

   

 

Words do two major things: they provide food for the minds and create light for understanding and awareness". - Jim Rohn.

What is Public Speaking?

Public Speaking is a kind of presentation you make in front of a live audience. Through your speech, you convey your ideas, educate the audience, and motivate them.

Modern-day business needs a good public speaker. The public speaker should have the skill and confidence to engage the audience and make them engrossed enough to get his/her key message across.

The goal of the public speaker is to inform, convince, and entertain his/her audience. The modern curriculum in school also gives importance to presentations and giving speeches.

Everybody is not an expert or confident when she/he is in front of a large audience or even small gatherings. They become nervous, anxious, and conscious about themselves.

Today, standing up in front of a team or audience has become necessary to put your message across. You have to be competent to do well otherwise it will not be effective.

Public speaking was started and developed in Rome, and Latin America. The prominent personalities and thinkers used to speak to the audience (public) to create awareness.

Modern technology continues to transform the art of public speaking through video conferencing, multimedia presentations, and other non-traditional forms.

Some of the historical speeches are-

A- Mahatma Gandhi's message of the non-violence movement in India, in 1920. This speech actually inspired Martin Luther King Jr.'s " I Have a Dream" speech at the Washington movement in 1963.

B- Frances Wright was one of the first women public speakers in the US. She advocated for equal education for women.

C- Two sisters named Angeline Grimke and Sarah Grimke encouraged women to come out and speak to the public, Through their own speeches.

D- Winstone Churchill, delivered his famous 'our finest hour'. He managed to combine the most magnificent use of English.

E- John Kennedy's ability to speak as if he were having an authentic conversation with an audience, as opposed to lecturing to them, is one quality that made him such a compelling communicator.

The good news is that with practice and thorough preparation, you can overcome your nervousness and anxiety to become an expert public speaker.

'' Mind your speech a little, lest you mar your fortunes''.- William Shakespeare.

Every speaker's style of speech, execution, and influence is different. Speaking and writing involve the creative use of words.

Rudyard Kipling when once asked the secret of successful writing said,'' I keep six honest seeing men. They taught me all I know. Their names are what, why, where, when, who, and how. A well-written article should have the answer of these six honest men''

The key to public speaking is sawn from school days. The school conducts elocution, storytelling, and speech on any topic. This creates an awareness in children and they try to overcome the fear of speaking in front of large gatherings of school students.

How to become an expert and confident public speaker?

1- Know yourself first.

"When you know yourself you are empowered. When you accept yourself you are invincible". -Tina Lifford.

You should know yourself first to know your audience. Find out your strengths and use them to your maximum benefit. Find out your weaknesses and work on them. They should be minimized.

Keep on telling yourself that you can do it. Believing in yourself that you have the skills, knowledge, and expertise that are essential to be a good speaker. Be positive as the day and time of giving a speech approach nearer.

'' Knowing others is knowledge, knowing yourself is wisdom''.- Chinese Proverb.

2- Have clarity about what you want to talk about.

Be clear about what you are going to talk about. You have to be an expert on the subject matter and the way you present it.

The subject matter is what you are going to talk about and the presentation is how you are going to talk.

You are speaking to inspire, give knowledge as well as information, and convince the audience about your ideas and thoughts. For this, you have to have thorough knowledge about the subject and be very clear about your thoughts.

'' There are certain things in which mediocrity is not to be endured, such as poetry, music, painting, and public speaking''.- Jean de la Bruyere.

3- Be confident.

Confidence is the key component of public speaking. You have to visualize that you have succeeded in influencing the audience. Believe me, it really works.

Focus on the feeling of success and being a very confident person. Continue with positive thoughts and visualization until you really achieve the same results.

'' If your action inspires others to dream more, learn more, do more and become more, you are a leader''.- John Quincy Adams.

4- Connect with audience.

Learn and practice to connect with the audience. Prepare yourself to face the audience positively. Let the event be interactive.

Make regular eye contact and ask questions to engage in the course of speech. By doing this you will make your audience more focused and they will become more intense listeners.

'' There are always three speeches, for every one you actually gave. The one you practiced, the one you gave, and the one wish you gave''- Dale Carnegie.

5- Be fearless while giving a presentation.

 Yes, it's natural to get nervous but you have to fake the fearlessness.

One way of feeling fear is good because it will make you more determined to prepare for the speech. You will keep no stone unturned to make the best presentation.

''The best way to conquer stage right is to know what you're talking bout''.- Michel H. Meson.

 6- Be focused when on stage.

Once on the stage, forget about everything and focus only on what message you want to convey to your audience.

Concentrate, give attention to the smallest detail, and be in a positive mindset about the value you are going to provide to each member of the audience.

'' Words have incredible power. They can make people's hearts soar, or they can make people's hearts sore''.- Dr. Mardy Grothe.

7- Do not cramp with so many ideas in your speech. 

Be careful to not confuse the audience with too many topics in one go. Instead take one small, solid, inspiring thought and speak on that confidently.

With too many ideas, there is always a fear that you may have left something or may lose your chain of thoughts.

''The success of your speech will be judged not by the knowledge you send but by what the listeners receive''.- Lilly Walters.

8-  Manage your nervousness. 

Avoid drinking too much of caffeine-based beverages. They are stimulants and may leave you with more nervousness and fearfulness.

Before going to the stage, practice mindfulness. Keep your mind calm and cool. If you have time, you can even try some mild exercises to keep your nerves in control.

Exercise releases endorphins which reduce stress and thus make you feel better.

9- Keep the audience in your mind.

"Designing a presentation without an audience in mind is like writing a love letter and addressing it: to whom it may concern". -Ken Haemer.

The most important thing is to remember not to just read the presentation. Practice vigorously pay attention to your audience and note to the notes.

Pay attention to your body language, posture, and gestures. Keep on improvising so that you sound natural and not like a robot. The rapport between you and your audience is a very important aspect of your public speech.

10- Be calm and cool.

Do not rush through your presentation and try to finish it just because you have to complete it. By doing this you are vulnerable to exposing yourself as a weak speaker.

Your audience may get frustrated and irritated and may leave the venue. Be patient with yourself and your audience.

Every new speaker needs time to bring out the best in himself/herself. Believe in your abilities and capabilities and go ahead with confidence.

11- Do not be scared of making mistakes.

Making mistakes will always happen. You should not react awkwardly and feel embarrassed. Here immediately use your presence of mind and save the situation.

Try to behave normally. Be humorous, crack jokes on yourself, and continue with your presentation. Nobody is perfect. With time and experience, everyone learns.

So instead of feeling upset, try to do your best in the given situation.

12- Keep on practicing till you are on stage.

Practice the speech relentlessly until the time of the speech. Stand in front of the mirror and practice. This is the best way to observe yourself.

'Practice makes the man perfect' is an old adage. For every new venture or new beginning, you need to continuously put in effort.

'' Before anything else, preparation is the key to success''.- Alexander Graham Bell.

13- Work on voice modulation and practice the tone of your voice. 

Your tone and projection play a vital role in engaging and entertaining your audience.

Monotony in your voice may distract your audience. Soon you will find that they are getting distracted and bored. They may walk away from the place.

'' Oratory is the power to talk people out of their sober and natural opinions''.- Joseph Chatfield.

14- Be engaged with your audience.

The modern-day audience loves to have some emotions and humor in the speech. When the subject is boring try to weave a humorous story. ( Mostly tech-related topics may bore the audience).

You have to constantly discover yourself to give the best to your audience. Make the speech so lively that the audience craves more.

'' People will forget what you said, people will forget what you did, but people will never forget how you made them feel''.- Maya Angelou.

15- Listen to famous speakers and observe them.

 Take the guidance and learn to perfect your speech. Listen to the TED talks.

You will be amazed to see even the 15-year-old child speak perfectly with huge confidence. Get inspired by them and build your confidence.

'' Most of the successful people I have known are the ones who do more listening than talking''.- Bernard Baruch.

"Practice makes a man perfect" is an old saying. Perfect yourself by speaking in front of the mirror.

16- Finish your speech within the time limit.

Most importantly, finish the talk within the time limit. Never go over the allotted time frame. Otherwise, it will show you in a bad light.

If you continue beyond the time limit, people will know that you are not well-prepared. It's against etiquette.

Taking more than the allotted time also shows yourself disrespectful of the agenda for the event or organizers.

'' Make sure you have stopped speaking before your audience has stopped listening''.- Dorothy Sarnoff.

17- Ask for feedback. 

Most of the time we are very scared to ask a response. We fear criticism or honest feedback.

Remember that honest opinions and feedback will help you to avoid ill-preparation. You will become aware of your shortcomings and will try to improve yourself.

'' What is the shortest word in the English language that contains the letters: abcdef? Answer: feedback. Don't forget that feedback is one of the essential elements of good communication''.- Anonymus.

Feedback encourages you to accept your faults or mistakes and positively work on them. It actually allows you to improve yourself.

Bottomline- 

Speaking is a great way to connect with people and a skill everyone should master. Today, it's the basic requirement for any new ventures, startups, and other related fields.

An effective speech can bring revolutionary changes. It's also a great way to impress current and future employers along the way.

To be a confident public speaker, you have to practice and hone your skills.

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