8 Steps To Get Back Into Studying After Years of Working

Getting back into studying after years in the workplace can be overwhelming. But don’t let it discourage you.

Learning can be the difference between your current situation and the life you’re daydreaming about. 

Whether you’re thinking about going back to school or changing careers. 

Studying can help you get there. But it’ll take some sacrifices. You’ll need to stop scrolling and start studying. 

Here’s how to get back into studying after years of working. 

How to Get Back Into Studying After Years

1. Create a Study Routine Game Plan

Before you do anything else. Take a moment to map out a game plan. Getting back into studying can be difficult, depending on how long you’ve been working. 

But it doesn’t have to be. Having a plan in place is your first step. Start by creating a study routine. Ask yourself these questions. 

• When will I study?
• How many hours per week can I realistically commit to studying? 
• What activities will I need to give up to make room for studying?

Get organized before launching your study plan. A digital planner can help with that. 

Question your priorities. If you’re overcommitted to things that don’t help you level up. Now’s the time to scale back. 

2. Prep your brain for studying  

Prep your brain for studying if it’s been a while since you’ve been in a classroom. 

One way to do this is with memory exercises. Memory exercises can help improve the function of your brain.

Here’s a memory exercise you can do. The next time you visit your favorite restaurant.

Spend a few minutes people-watching. Try to remember three details about the people sitting near you. Later, share these details with your guest.

Believe it or not. Remembering details and recalling them is an activity supported by brain fitness studies. 

And it’s a great way to prep your brain for studying. 

3. Address unresolved issues in your personal life  

Studying will be hard if you have lingering issues in your personal life. Don’t let past baggage rob you of your future.

Take a moment to do a brain dump. A brain dump is a technique to help you declutter your mind and thoughts.

This can help you address issues that could interfere with studying. Remember, don’t let anyone live in your mind rent-free. It’s not worth it.

4. Take it slow and steady 

If the thought of studying again overwhelms you, then take it slowly. Don’t feel pressured to go all-in at once.  

Start with studying for one hour per day each week. Or enroll in only one class at a time. Once you have your routine down, work your way up. 

The key is to take small consistent steps over time. Don’t try to overdo it. You’ll just burn yourself out. And give up too soon.

Remember baby steps are still steps. You’ve got this!

5. Set the mood right 

You’ll need to set the mood right to get back into study mode. Here are some ways to create a good study vibe. Have some fun with it!

How to get back into study mode:

• Create a study playlist with songs that help you focus

• Light candles with your favorite scents 

• Make sure your room’s lighting is ideal for studying  

• Put a do not disturb sign on your door if you have roommates

• Turn your phone on silent including all notifications

• Remove any distractions from your study space 

6. Feed your body right 

You’re probably thinking, what does food have to do with studying?

Well, let me explain. Research shows that your diet affects your brain function.

Diets high in vegetables, whole grains, fish, and olive oil promote higher brain performance.

When you eat matters too. Studies show that eating breakfast can improve short-term memory and attention.

Students who eat breakfast tend to perform better than those who don’t. Getting back into studying could mean changes to your lifestyle.

Start your days with breakfast. And eat healthy meals regularly for the best results. 

7. Use Focus Tools

If you struggle to concentrate. Don’t worry you’re not alone. 

Maybe you have a lot going on in your personal life. Or maybe you have a condition that affects your focus. 

Whatever it is, don’t be shy about needing a little help. A focus tool can help you stay on track. 

Luckily, there are many apps, websites, and extensions to help you stay focused while studying. Give them a try!

8. Organize a study tribe 

You don’t have to do it alone. If you catch yourself slacking and need a little motivation. A study group can help hold you accountable. 

Connect with other students in your community. You’ll have a study buddy and an accountability partner. 

If there’s a topic you’re struggling with, add a tutor to your study tribe. There’s no shame in needing help. 

Chances are you aren’t the only one needing to study. Let others join you on this journey. It’ll make the experience so much better.

Getting Back into Studying

Now that you know the steps to get back into study mode, it’s time to take action. Start by creating your study routine game plan.

Send yourself a calendar invite to do this. Once that’s completed, the other steps will seem less overwhelming. 

If you’re new here, join our community with thousands of learners and future leaders worldwide. It’s free! 

You get instant access to our Career Level Up Center when you join. 

The career center has 100% free educational templates, workbooks, and guides to help you on your study journey!

Over to You

What are you studying these days? Head over to our comments section on social @netwerkmovement and let us know.

Who knows, you might find someone studying the same subject. Share this with the students in your network!