Blogs: Serena uncovers some extra motivation

Post 4, May 2013

Serena Cooper graduated from Lancaster University with a degree in history and politics. She's now trying to work out exactly what she wants to do as a career

After the Easter break I felt refreshed and had a positive outlook for the month ahead. There is also something about these lighter nights that makes me feel the day is still young and anything can happen.

Determined to be productive and proactive I decided to take up running again, putting on my running shoes which I had last worn back at uni. Ah the good old days when being a student meant cheaper gym membership.

Unfortunately as a graduate I can no longer take advantage of such student discounts so I have hit the pavement in an effort to not only get fit but give the mind a workout too. Motivating myself to start running again seemed like a mammoth task but after a couple of days I realised, as with most things, they are never as bad as you think they are going to be and you basically just have to get out there and do it.

I decided to adopt this approach of 'doing things instead of just thinking about doing them' and it's really helped - I also find the more I have to do the more I manage to get done.

So among the numerous other tasks I have taken on, I am currently trying to improve my French (we shall see how long that one lasts) and have committed to entering a writing competition.

To be productive I have found it's best to plan your day and get into a routine. It also helps to make lists and give yourself a timeframe for completing certain tasks, whether it's completing an application form or tidying your room. I have now got into the habit of writing down useful phrases whenever I read something that may be of future use or that I think could help when filling out an application.

When it comes to sitting and doing an application form, which I'm sure you're familiar with, it can seem they consume not only your day but your life. It is easy find yourself procrastinating or telling yourself you have plenty of time as the application deadline is ages off, only to find a couple of weeks later you have missed it. Definitely not fun if the intake is only once or twice a year!

Lesson learnt, I now make a note of application open and closing dates or even set a phone reminder.

I have also learnt not to rush when taking any aptitude tests that may come with an application. Trying to work out a maths problem or answer verbal reasoning questions while watching the TV, sat with other people or having only a few minutes to spare will never end well.

Another piece of advice: instead of digging out those degree results every time you are required to list every module and grade achieved, copy them onto a Word document along with your employment dates and achievements.

It can save a vast amount of time when it comes to putting togrther another application that requires the same information.

The key really is to get organised and treat looking for a job as a job, sit at a desk, keep notes in a diary and work out ways to save time and energy.

Before you know it that application will be submitted before your phone even has a chance to remind you.