6 answers
Amir
Student
Banning, California
2
Questions
Asked
1731 views
Motivation and Memory.
First of all, I wanted to say to all the people who took the time and given me their support. Thank you all so much, it means a lot to me. Now onto the point:
I have a terrible time at keeping myself Motivated enough to do my work or anything that I didn't finish after school. The moment I go home my brain just shuts off and I refuse to do much until I just force myself to do so. Which then become an even bigger struggle if I have to keep going. I don't have much time during school and most of the things need to be done at home.
Especially my memory, not only that, but my memory is terrible. I tried phone reminders, Journals, Friend Texts. But they work somewhat, but especially with more important assignments and smaller assignments from every class. I could barely keep up and remember everything. Especially with At-Home Programming.
How do I keep myself going with all of this issues?
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6 answers
Rebecca Tang
Banking
1976
Answers
Hong Kong
Updated
Rebecca’s Answer
Thank you for your question. Firstly, you need to find a time management tool to help, e.g. Google Calendar, MS Outlook, phone calendar, etc.
Below are my suggestions :
1. Put down the time you need to attend school.
2. Assign some time everyday for your assignment and projects. Review the material covered in the class on the day.
3. Make sure you have enough time to sleep and do some exercise.
4. Try to follow similar schedule everyday / every week.
5. Print out the schedule and put it in front of your desk. Try to follow the schedule.
Hope this helps! Good Luck!
May Almighty God bless you!
Below are my suggestions :
1. Put down the time you need to attend school.
2. Assign some time everyday for your assignment and projects. Review the material covered in the class on the day.
3. Make sure you have enough time to sleep and do some exercise.
4. Try to follow similar schedule everyday / every week.
5. Print out the schedule and put it in front of your desk. Try to follow the schedule.
Hope this helps! Good Luck!
May Almighty God bless you!
Thank you for the advice.
Amir
Heather Cowan
Career coach
8
Answers
Kitchener, Ontario, Canada
Updated
Heather’s Answer
This sounds really frustrating and overwhelming. You sound like a dedicated person with strong work ethic.
Since you’ve tried so many tips and tricks already, I would start with talking to someone who knows about trauma, mental conditions, learning disorders and ADHD.
Here’s my story: My whole world changed when I learned that my unmanaged PTSD and ADHD created both brain fog and an inability to follow neurotypical advice for situations like you’ve described. It was so frustrating. I felt like a failure because none of the sure things worked for me. I’m not diagnosing you, just sharing how learning about myself helped me understand why the general advice made things worse for me.
I received insults and threats from teachers, parents, managers, “mentors” trying to make me less lazy, more attentive, better with time management and prioritization. It made me feel awful about myself because like you, I was trying so hard and unknowingly fighting against myself in my efforts to be better. I wonder if you are like me. Maybe you also have some underlying things going on that need to be addressed so you can feel like you have better control over yourself. Not sure of your gender, but symptoms of some things (like ADHD) show up differently in males vs females which also makes it hard for us to understand what’s going on with ourselves. And the not knowing typically creates anxiety and depression, which have their own brain fogging issues.
In theory, your guidance counsellor, your school’s child and youth worker, or family doctor may have some referrals for you, and if none of them help or they brush you off, then reach out to a mental healthcare professional. Or just reach out to a mental health professional anyways because this sounds super stressful and they can provide clarity and coping skills. Many benefit plans have mental healthcare included so if your family has a plan that covers dentist visits, you might also be able to get into mental health counselling under it. Or some places have free access for a handful of sessions.
It sounds like you are doing all that you know how to do to take care of yourself and manage a huge workload. I hope the resources and suggestions above support you to feel successful in your day to day activities. I really believe that you’ll be an awesome impact on whatever community you’re part of. You’ve got this.
Since you’ve tried so many tips and tricks already, I would start with talking to someone who knows about trauma, mental conditions, learning disorders and ADHD.
Here’s my story: My whole world changed when I learned that my unmanaged PTSD and ADHD created both brain fog and an inability to follow neurotypical advice for situations like you’ve described. It was so frustrating. I felt like a failure because none of the sure things worked for me. I’m not diagnosing you, just sharing how learning about myself helped me understand why the general advice made things worse for me.
I received insults and threats from teachers, parents, managers, “mentors” trying to make me less lazy, more attentive, better with time management and prioritization. It made me feel awful about myself because like you, I was trying so hard and unknowingly fighting against myself in my efforts to be better. I wonder if you are like me. Maybe you also have some underlying things going on that need to be addressed so you can feel like you have better control over yourself. Not sure of your gender, but symptoms of some things (like ADHD) show up differently in males vs females which also makes it hard for us to understand what’s going on with ourselves. And the not knowing typically creates anxiety and depression, which have their own brain fogging issues.
In theory, your guidance counsellor, your school’s child and youth worker, or family doctor may have some referrals for you, and if none of them help or they brush you off, then reach out to a mental healthcare professional. Or just reach out to a mental health professional anyways because this sounds super stressful and they can provide clarity and coping skills. Many benefit plans have mental healthcare included so if your family has a plan that covers dentist visits, you might also be able to get into mental health counselling under it. Or some places have free access for a handful of sessions.
It sounds like you are doing all that you know how to do to take care of yourself and manage a huge workload. I hope the resources and suggestions above support you to feel successful in your day to day activities. I really believe that you’ll be an awesome impact on whatever community you’re part of. You’ve got this.
Wow, thank you for sharing your story. I'll take this into deep consideration.
Amir
David Barcelona
Guest Lecturer
11
Answers
Pasay, Metro Manila, Philippines
Updated
David’s Answer
Oh, I feel you so deeply—what you’re describing is something so many people struggle with, even if they don’t always admit it. You’re juggling a lot: the mental exhaustion of school, the pressure to stay on top of assignments, and that frustrating foggy memory that makes everything feel harder than it should be. But here’s the good news—you’re already taking steps to address it (phone reminders, journals, texting friends—that’s huge!), and now we can refine those strategies to make them work better for you . Let me walk you through some personalized tips to help you tackle both motivation and memory.
1. Tackling Motivation: Start Small & Build Momentum
Your brain shutting off after school? That sounds like pure overwhelm or burnout talking—and honestly, who wouldn’t feel that way after a full day of classes? Here’s how to gently nudge yourself back into action without feeling like you’re forcing it:
The 5-Minute Rule: When you get home and your brain feels fried, commit to just five minutes of whatever task you need to do. Tell yourself, “I’ll start coding for five minutes” or “I’ll read one page.” Most of the time, once you begin, inertia kicks in, and you’ll find yourself working longer than you planned.
Break Tasks Into Micro-Steps: Big tasks like “write essay” or “do programming assignment” can feel paralyzing. Instead, break them down: “Open my laptop,” “Write one paragraph,” “Test one function.” Celebrate each tiny win—it builds momentum.
Create a Transition Ritual: Sometimes the jump from school mode to home mode is too abrupt. Try creating a calming routine when you get home—a quick walk, a snack, or even 10 minutes of stretching—to reset mentally before diving into work.
2. Boosting Memory: Find Systems That Work for YOU
Memory struggles are tough, especially when you’re juggling multiple deadlines. It sounds like traditional methods aren’t fully clicking yet, so let’s tweak them to match your unique needs:
Visualize Your Day: Instead of relying solely on texts or reminders, try visual tools. A whiteboard by your desk where you list your priorities for the day can be super helpful. Seeing everything laid out visually might stick better than digital reminders.
Use Audio Notes: If writing things down isn’t sticking, try recording voice memos for yourself (“Don’t forget to submit the math homework!”). Hearing your own voice later might trigger your memory more effectively.
Associate Deadlines with Emotions: Pair important assignments with strong feelings or images. For example, imagine turning in your programming project while picturing how relieved or proud you’ll feel afterward. Emotional connections often improve recall.
Leverage Technology Smarter: Apps like Notion , Trello , or Todoist allow you to organize tasks visually and set recurring reminders. Experiment until you find one that clicks!
3. Managing Programming Assignments at Home
Programming can feel especially draining because it requires intense focus—and let’s face it, no one’s brain is firing on all cylinders after a long day. Here’s how to approach it strategically:
Set Mini-Goals: Break your programming tasks into manageable chunks. For instance, aim to complete one section of code or debug one issue per sitting. This prevents the overwhelm of tackling everything at once.
Work in Short Bursts: Use the Pomodoro Technique —work for 25 minutes, then take a 5-minute break. After four cycles, take a longer 15–30 minute break. This keeps your energy up and stops burnout before it starts.
Pair Program Virtually: If possible, collaborate with classmates over video calls. Talking through problems together not only boosts productivity but also helps cement concepts in your memory.
4. Protect Your Energy (It’s Finite!)
You mentioned forcing yourself to keep going when you’re already drained—that’s a recipe for frustration. Instead, focus on protecting your energy throughout the day:
Prioritize Sleep: Lack of sleep tanks both motivation and memory. Even small improvements in your sleep schedule can have a massive impact on your ability to focus and retain information.
Fuel Your Brain: Eat snacks rich in protein and healthy fats (like nuts or yogurt) during study sessions—they provide sustained energy. Avoid sugary snacks that lead to crashes.
Schedule Rest Days: Block out time each week to recharge completely. No studying, no stressing—just activities that bring you joy. A rested mind is a motivated mind.
5. Be Kind to Yourself
Here’s the most important piece of advice: Stop beating yourself up for struggling. What you’re dealing with is incredibly common, and recognizing it is half the battle. Progress doesn’t happen overnight, but every small step you take brings you closer to finding what works for you.
And hey, consider this: Maybe part of the reason you’re having trouble staying motivated is because deep down, you’re craving balance. Your body and brain are telling you, “Hey, we need breaks too!” Listen to them. Build systems that honor your limits while still pushing you forward.
Final Pep Talk
You’ve got this. Seriously—you’re already aware of your challenges, which means you’re halfway to overcoming them. Start experimenting with these strategies one at a time, and adjust as needed. Remember, it’s okay to stumble along the way; growth comes from trying new things and learning what sticks.
So take a deep breath, give yourself grace, and celebrate the fact that you’re putting in the effort to figure this out. You’re building skills—not just for school, but for life. Keep going, friend.
1. Tackling Motivation: Start Small & Build Momentum
Your brain shutting off after school? That sounds like pure overwhelm or burnout talking—and honestly, who wouldn’t feel that way after a full day of classes? Here’s how to gently nudge yourself back into action without feeling like you’re forcing it:
The 5-Minute Rule: When you get home and your brain feels fried, commit to just five minutes of whatever task you need to do. Tell yourself, “I’ll start coding for five minutes” or “I’ll read one page.” Most of the time, once you begin, inertia kicks in, and you’ll find yourself working longer than you planned.
Break Tasks Into Micro-Steps: Big tasks like “write essay” or “do programming assignment” can feel paralyzing. Instead, break them down: “Open my laptop,” “Write one paragraph,” “Test one function.” Celebrate each tiny win—it builds momentum.
Create a Transition Ritual: Sometimes the jump from school mode to home mode is too abrupt. Try creating a calming routine when you get home—a quick walk, a snack, or even 10 minutes of stretching—to reset mentally before diving into work.
2. Boosting Memory: Find Systems That Work for YOU
Memory struggles are tough, especially when you’re juggling multiple deadlines. It sounds like traditional methods aren’t fully clicking yet, so let’s tweak them to match your unique needs:
Visualize Your Day: Instead of relying solely on texts or reminders, try visual tools. A whiteboard by your desk where you list your priorities for the day can be super helpful. Seeing everything laid out visually might stick better than digital reminders.
Use Audio Notes: If writing things down isn’t sticking, try recording voice memos for yourself (“Don’t forget to submit the math homework!”). Hearing your own voice later might trigger your memory more effectively.
Associate Deadlines with Emotions: Pair important assignments with strong feelings or images. For example, imagine turning in your programming project while picturing how relieved or proud you’ll feel afterward. Emotional connections often improve recall.
Leverage Technology Smarter: Apps like Notion , Trello , or Todoist allow you to organize tasks visually and set recurring reminders. Experiment until you find one that clicks!
3. Managing Programming Assignments at Home
Programming can feel especially draining because it requires intense focus—and let’s face it, no one’s brain is firing on all cylinders after a long day. Here’s how to approach it strategically:
Set Mini-Goals: Break your programming tasks into manageable chunks. For instance, aim to complete one section of code or debug one issue per sitting. This prevents the overwhelm of tackling everything at once.
Work in Short Bursts: Use the Pomodoro Technique —work for 25 minutes, then take a 5-minute break. After four cycles, take a longer 15–30 minute break. This keeps your energy up and stops burnout before it starts.
Pair Program Virtually: If possible, collaborate with classmates over video calls. Talking through problems together not only boosts productivity but also helps cement concepts in your memory.
4. Protect Your Energy (It’s Finite!)
You mentioned forcing yourself to keep going when you’re already drained—that’s a recipe for frustration. Instead, focus on protecting your energy throughout the day:
Prioritize Sleep: Lack of sleep tanks both motivation and memory. Even small improvements in your sleep schedule can have a massive impact on your ability to focus and retain information.
Fuel Your Brain: Eat snacks rich in protein and healthy fats (like nuts or yogurt) during study sessions—they provide sustained energy. Avoid sugary snacks that lead to crashes.
Schedule Rest Days: Block out time each week to recharge completely. No studying, no stressing—just activities that bring you joy. A rested mind is a motivated mind.
5. Be Kind to Yourself
Here’s the most important piece of advice: Stop beating yourself up for struggling. What you’re dealing with is incredibly common, and recognizing it is half the battle. Progress doesn’t happen overnight, but every small step you take brings you closer to finding what works for you.
And hey, consider this: Maybe part of the reason you’re having trouble staying motivated is because deep down, you’re craving balance. Your body and brain are telling you, “Hey, we need breaks too!” Listen to them. Build systems that honor your limits while still pushing you forward.
Final Pep Talk
You’ve got this. Seriously—you’re already aware of your challenges, which means you’re halfway to overcoming them. Start experimenting with these strategies one at a time, and adjust as needed. Remember, it’s okay to stumble along the way; growth comes from trying new things and learning what sticks.
So take a deep breath, give yourself grace, and celebrate the fact that you’re putting in the effort to figure this out. You’re building skills—not just for school, but for life. Keep going, friend.
Wow, that's a lot, thank you for the word of encouragement. I'll try these out once I can!
Amir
Chinyere Okafor
Educationist and Counseling Psychologist
898
Answers
Port Harcourt, Rivers, Nigeria
Updated
Chinyere’s Answer
Hello Amir,
First, I want you to know that I understand how you feel. I’ve been in a similar situation, and you are not alone. Even hardworking and talented people struggle with motivation and memory, especially when they have a lot to do. The fact that you recognize these challenges and want to improve shows that you are strong and determined.
It's okay to feel exhausted when you get home. School takes up a lot of energy, and it’s hard to keep going when you are already tired. Instead of forcing yourself to work, try a reward system. For example, work for 25 minutes, then take a 5-minute break to do something you enjoy. Breaking tasks into smaller parts can make them feel less stressful.
For your memory, it’s great that you’ve tried different methods! The problem might not just be forgetting tasks but feeling overwhelmed by them. If phone reminders and journals only help a little, you might need a system that keeps everything in one place. In addition to what Rebecca suggested in her answer, Apps like Notion or Google Calendar can help, but if using too many digital tools feels messy, a simple planner where you write down your top three tasks for the day could be helpful. Focusing on the "most" important things first can make it easier to manage.
If programming at home feels difficult, try making it more enjoyable. Listen to music or a podcast in the background, so it doesn’t feel like a chore. Also, create a study space that helps your brain switch into "work mode." Even a specific chair or desk can make a difference.
Most importantly, be patient with yourself. Some days will be harder than others, and that’s okay. Progress doesn’t mean being perfect every day—it means finding ways to make things easier for yourself and staying consistent. The fact that you’re looking for solutions already shows how much you care. Keep going—you’ve got this!
Best wishes!
First, I want you to know that I understand how you feel. I’ve been in a similar situation, and you are not alone. Even hardworking and talented people struggle with motivation and memory, especially when they have a lot to do. The fact that you recognize these challenges and want to improve shows that you are strong and determined.
It's okay to feel exhausted when you get home. School takes up a lot of energy, and it’s hard to keep going when you are already tired. Instead of forcing yourself to work, try a reward system. For example, work for 25 minutes, then take a 5-minute break to do something you enjoy. Breaking tasks into smaller parts can make them feel less stressful.
For your memory, it’s great that you’ve tried different methods! The problem might not just be forgetting tasks but feeling overwhelmed by them. If phone reminders and journals only help a little, you might need a system that keeps everything in one place. In addition to what Rebecca suggested in her answer, Apps like Notion or Google Calendar can help, but if using too many digital tools feels messy, a simple planner where you write down your top three tasks for the day could be helpful. Focusing on the "most" important things first can make it easier to manage.
If programming at home feels difficult, try making it more enjoyable. Listen to music or a podcast in the background, so it doesn’t feel like a chore. Also, create a study space that helps your brain switch into "work mode." Even a specific chair or desk can make a difference.
Most importantly, be patient with yourself. Some days will be harder than others, and that’s okay. Progress doesn’t mean being perfect every day—it means finding ways to make things easier for yourself and staying consistent. The fact that you’re looking for solutions already shows how much you care. Keep going—you’ve got this!
Best wishes!
Thank you for all of this knowledge!
Amir
Ken Gish
Human Factors Research
7
Answers
Wilmington, Delaware
Updated
Ken’s Answer
What you describe sounds like something called monkey brain in the literature where you have difficulty focusing, lack motivation, struggle with memory, are easily distracted, and feel restless. I had the same problem in high school.
It is tough to figure out what will work for you but you can try these (find details online):
1. Meditation or mindfulness
2. Memory tricks like chunking, mnemonics, and explaining material to others.
3. Pomodoro technique
4. Gamify by giving yourself rewards
5. Micro-tasks
6. Declutter your workspace
7. Physical exercise (highly recommended)
8. Develop good habits (recommend Atomic Habits by James Clear)
9. Find topics that interest you just to demonstrate to yourself that you are capable of being a good student (face it, some subjects are going to be boring; you won't like all subjects but that's okay...just get it done).
10. Find a hobby so that you aren't always worrying about school in your spare time.
I eventually got through my issues in college but still had memory issues for some classes. I was really excited about some of my classes in college so that's how I learned how to learn and, as a result, I became a better student.
I hope this helps. Good luck Amir!
It is tough to figure out what will work for you but you can try these (find details online):
1. Meditation or mindfulness
2. Memory tricks like chunking, mnemonics, and explaining material to others.
3. Pomodoro technique
4. Gamify by giving yourself rewards
5. Micro-tasks
6. Declutter your workspace
7. Physical exercise (highly recommended)
8. Develop good habits (recommend Atomic Habits by James Clear)
9. Find topics that interest you just to demonstrate to yourself that you are capable of being a good student (face it, some subjects are going to be boring; you won't like all subjects but that's okay...just get it done).
10. Find a hobby so that you aren't always worrying about school in your spare time.
I eventually got through my issues in college but still had memory issues for some classes. I was really excited about some of my classes in college so that's how I learned how to learn and, as a result, I became a better student.
I hope this helps. Good luck Amir!
A clear list, thank you very much!
Amir
Simona Zaffaroni-Lucas
Financial Analyst
36
Answers
Madrid, Community of Madrid, Spain
Updated
Simona’s Answer
Hi Amir - good question.. even computers need to shut down.. and it's perfectly ok for them to pick up what needs to be done when they are switched on again. I think lack of motivation and finding it difficult to remember things can be correlated.. it is perfectly ok to relax after a long day or after difficult tasks.. your mind needs to think of something else or simply, nothing at all.. to force yourself to continue to deliver can only make you more tired, not productive and definitely the motivation you would have in other periods - which could generate good work - is not there.. My advice is to take it easy.. let your mind and body ''shut down'' for a while.. recharge, and you will see that this new rhythm will help you continue the day after.. picking up what you left and delivering the quality work that motivates you. Try this new routine, let yourself be disconnected, listen to music, watch tv, go for a walk or read a book.. or just sit and do nothing, don't even go through what happened during the day. Eat well and relax.. When you are at school or at work you are 100% focussed there - when you are back home, you need to be 100% focused there.. time for each task. All the best, I will be curious to know if it worked..
Simplistic, I like it, thank you!
Amir