As students, we love our distractions.

I have noticed there are quite a few things that we students do to kill time instead of doing what they should be doing: school work. I’m not here to judge, and am definitely guilty of some of these myself, but when you should be paying attention in class or studying you are probably doing some of these. Five points if you can do them all together, including sleeping.

Social Media

I know that we need to know what everyone is doing at every moment of the day, but the time that we spend constantly refreshing our Facebook and Twitter feeds is probably a bit much (ED. NOTE: unless you’re hunting for vouchers, then as you were). If we spent half of the time on our social media platforms as we do on our studying we would all be sitting a bit closer to that 4.0 more than likely. Next time you find yourself flipping through your Instagram feed, put the phone down and pick that textbook up. You’ll thank me later.

Selfies

People are taking selfies in class as opposed to paying attention to what is going on around them. I’ve seen this happen. Honestly though, do your friends really care about seeing what your lecture hall around you looks like? Probably not. Skip the selfie and get back to learning about kinesiology. Your grades (and parents) will thank you.

Texting

Whether you’re texting your friends or using Facebook Messenger (or surprisingly still MSN Messenger), being in touch with your friends has never been as bad for you as it is while prepping for a final. Yes, it’s important to be in touch with your friends, but the drama of The Bachelor can wait until after the big test. Turning your phone off when studying will be one of the best choices you’ll make in a day.

Napping

I have found that being well rested can make a world of difference in regards to getting through a long school day. I know that we like to procrastinate and then cram the whole night before a final, but if you’re up all night, you just won’t function as well when it comes time to perform. Make sure to get your rest, and plan out your study times well in advance. Seriously, it makes a huge difference.

Binge-watching on Netflix

The newest fad, if one can call it that, is binge-watching TV shows, all thanks to the wonder that is Netflix. Why wait a week to see what happens on your favourite show when you can just plow through hour after hour of Archer until you watch every episode. I’ve definitely watched my share of Suits, but let’s try and maintain a little self-control shall we? Ok, fine, just one episode and then back to the books!

What other time-wasting activities that should be avoided or are your guilty pleasures? Sound off below!

Lead image: Esther Vargas, selfie shot Pasko Tomic