Perhaps you’ve got a full-time job and study English as a hobby, or you’re a student with a million-and-one things to do and don’t know when you’re going to fit in your study time. If you’re struggling to find the energy to keep up your English studies, read our top tips.

1. Take Care of Yourself First

Before English needs, check your human needs. Are you thirsty? Hungry? Do you need a shower? Take a few minutes to refresh yourself in these basic ways and you’ll be sure to have more energy when it comes to studying.

2. Set the Right Goals

Set yourself small goals. If you know you need to do 30 minutes of study but the goal seems impossible, set the timer for just 10 minutes. After that, do another ten. And another. Breaking up your study into more manageable chunks will make it easier to finish.

3. Location, Location, Location

Find a good place to study. If you’ve got laundry all over your bed and dishes piling up on the table, it won’t make for a good environment for studying. A clear working space is crucial for effective working space. Go sit in a cafe or public library, or ask a tidy friend if you can use their study for a while.

4. Every Little Bit Counts

If you literally don’t have the time to open your hefty textbook, don’t give up on English altogether just because you’re too busy this week. Switch some of your daily tasks to include a bit of language practice. Write your weekly shopping list in English instead of your native tongue. Listen to English songs or audiobooks as you walk to work. If you’re reading a recipe, translate it into English in your head as you go. There are countless opportunities to practice English if you think creatively.

About the Author

Celia Jenkins is a TEFL teacher and freelance writer living in the UK. She spent five years teaching English in China and Japan and now teaches Skype lessons to students around the world. She writes pedagogical articles, travel guides, and stories for children.