Spring into success: 7 tips to keep your momentum going

With warmer days and sunnier skies on the horizon, it’s easy for students to lose focus on their coursework. Longer daylight hours, spring break schedules, and the temptation to spend more time outside can make it harder to stay on track. But staying motivated doesn’t mean sacrificing the season—you can embrace the energy of spring while keeping your academic momentum strong.

To help, student success counselors at Colorado State University Global shared their top tips for staying on track this spring.

1. Get outside. There’s no rule that you have to study indoors

One of the biggest perks of online learning is that you’re not tied to a classroom—so why not take advantage of the spring weather? Whether it’s reading on your porch, watching lectures in a park, or working from a café patio, a change of scenery can boost your mood and productivity.

“You don’t have to be confined inside four walls to complete your assignments,” said Jenny Ruger, Senior Student Success Counselor II. “Being outside brings a different energy and allows you to enjoy the nicer weather as the seasons change.”

If you want to make it extra enjoyable, Stephanie Cook, Student Success Counselor II, recommended bringing along some comforts. “Grab your favorite blanket and snack and soak up the fresh air while reading or working on assignments!”

2. “Spring clean” your schedule

Spring often brings new commitments—kids on spring break, longer daylight hours, or changing work schedules—so it’s important to reassess your study habits and adjust accordingly.

Cook emphasized staying organized. “Keep routines consistent,” she said. “Make sure your assignment trackers, calendars, and agendas are up to date to stay organized and on track to the finish line!”

As the seasons change, so do your daily rhythms. If you find yourself with more energy in the evenings, consider shifting study sessions to later in the day so you can make the most of daylight hours for family time or outdoor activities.

“The extra daylight in the evening could potentially boost your energy level,” Ruger said. “Be sure to capitalize on the renewed sense of energy and shift coursework to later in the evening so you can spend time outside earlier with family and friends.”

3. Stay organized with assignment trackers

A little planning went a long way when it came to academic success. Reviewing your module overview before each school week could help you stay prepared, and keeping an assignment tracker can help ensure deadlines don’t sneak up on you.

“Keeping an assignment tracker each term is beneficial for most students,” said Jessica Burks, Student Success Counselor II. “If you don’t have one for the spring trimester, reach out to your Student Success Counselor, who can walk you through using one.”

4. Try audio learning while you’re on the go

If you’re juggling a busy schedule, audio learning can help you absorb material without being tied to a screen. Whether it’s audiobooks, text-to-speech programs, or recorded lectures, you can learn while walking, commuting, or doing household tasks.

“Students have access to a resource called SensusAccess in their portal that allows them to convert most PDFs and Word documents into an audio file,” said Ruger. “Some RedShelf textbooks even offer an audio version within the e-book rental. Get creative with completing tasks! No laptop? No problem! You can use the Canvas app on your phone to complete readings, watch videos and take notes while on the go.”

5. Stay motivated with small wins

Spring can bring renewed energy, but it can also bring distractions. One way to keep pushing forward is by celebrating the progress you’ve already made.

“Thinking about all the courses you’ve already completed and how you’re getting closer and closer to the finish line can be the motivation you need,” said Cook. “You got this!”

Taking time to reflect on your long-term goals can also help keep you grounded when life gets busy.

“Stay motivated by keeping your overall goal in sight and taking time to recognize the progress you’ve already made,” said Amanda Stephens, Senior Student Success Counselor II. “Every completed assignment, every passed course—it all adds up. Don’t be afraid to celebrate your successes, big or small, and if you ever need a boost or someone to help you stay on track, your student success counselor is always here to support you.”

For students who need an extra push, setting up small incentives can be a helpful tactic.

“Implementing a reward system or a study incentive is a great way to stay on track,” said Jennifer Washicosky, Senior Student Success Counselor. “Scheduling a walk or dinner post-study can motivate students and help manage distractions. Springtime distractions are inevitable, but we can use them to our advantage.”

6. Prioritize sleep to keep your brain sharp

With longer daylight hours, it was tempting to stay up later and pack more into your day—but proper rest is crucial for academic success.

“Prioritize sleep,” Burks said. “When daylight lasts longer, our bodies are geared to push to get more activities done. Setting a realistic and consistent wind-down time, screen-free, can set you up for successful sleep which promotes more brain power for studies.”

Good sleep habits help with concentration, memory retention, and overall well-being, so making rest a priority is essential for academic success.

7. Use timed study sessions for better focus

If you’ve ever found yourself losing track of time while studying, using a timer can help you stay focused and productive without burning out.

One popular method is the Pomodoro technique, which involves working in 25-minute blocks followed by short breaks. This approach helps maintain concentration and gives your brain time to recharge.

“Giving yourself an allotted amount of time to complete an assignment or read a certain amount is a great way to stay focused,” said Cook. “Then, at the end of that timeframe, setting a timer for a few minutes to get up and stretch helps keep students refreshed.”

Balancing coursework with the energy of spring doesn’t have to be a challenge. By making small adjustments—like studying outside, using flexible resources, staying organized, and setting up a study reward system—you can enjoy the season while staying focused on your goals.

And if you ever need extra support, your student success counselors are always here to help.