Is your brain still on "vacation mode" after a long winter break? Are you worried that you're going to find it hard to concentrate, at least at the beginning of this new semester? According to Psychology Today, you're not alone - the "post vacation" blues are a real thing.

But the good news is you can overcome them! To help you transition into second semester, we've compiled a list of tips to help you start the year off fresh - whether this is your first semester or your last. Good luck!

1. Create a plan or list out your goals.
It's easier to stay focused when you know what your goals are. Write out a list of manageable "to-dos" everyday and try to accomplish them. Want a way to make it fun? Start a bullet journal. 

2. Leave your phone at home or eliminate its distractions.
A new study reports that we touch our phones thousands of times each day. Leaving your phone at home or installing a "distraction killing" app may sharpen your focus.

3. Go to bed early.
It's no secret that getting a good night's rest is good for you. According to an article from Entrepreneur.com, poor sleep causes your brain to not fully process the information you received the previous day. So make it a priority: go to bed early!

4. Do your most challenging work first.
Get the most difficult task out of the way first. When you're finished, your workload won't seem as bad. Another perk? You'll get to work on challenging tasks when your mind is fresh.

5. Schedule time to relax.
Resting is an important part of mental health. Try to meditate or unwind in front of the TV when you need time to relax. Even better, schedule it into your daily routine.

6. Stop multi-tasking.
Multi-tasking may seem like a positive skill - but studies have shown that it can slow you down, stress you out and decrease your creativity level.

7. Motivate yourself.
Staying positive is key to achieving your goals. So do whatever you need to stay motivated - whether it's rewarding yourself for the little milestones, reflecting on how you persevered in the past or meditating.

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