Tips for Self-Discipline

• Cultivate focus
  • Practice meditation, yoga, etc.
• Eliminate external distractions
  • Put your phone on Do Not Disturb, study at the library, etc.

• Set study time

  • Pomodoro Technique (opens new window) — Using the Pomodoro Technique: choose a task to complete, set the timer for 25 minutes, focus on work without doing anything unrelated to the task until the timer rings, then take a short break (about 5 minutes). Take a longer break after every 4 Pomodoro sessions.

    The human brain has both short-term and long-term memory when memorizing things. The brain's encoding process for long-term memory takes time — possibly hours or days. Concentrated practice doesn't allow for this process, so it produces short-term memory. With spaced practice, the brain has time for thorough encoding, and the knowledge gets stored as long-term memory.

    Some recommended interval exercises: physical training, stretch breaks, eye exercises, stretching routines...

    A healthy body keeps the brain sharper!

• Limit entertainment time

  • Reduce time spent on entertainment apps (iPhone users can set Screen Time limits)

  • Recommended viewing: A video by a Bilibili creator: "I Only Looked at My Phone for Half an Hour a Day for a Week — What Changed?" (opens new window)

• Break internet addiction (especially gaming)

  • Beyond phones and games, there are many wonderful things around us worth our attention.

• Set goals

  • Want better salary and position? Spend more time studying!
  • Give yourself positive self-talk, build confidence, make yourself better, then challenge higher goals

• Exceptional people keep striving

  • Check out the GitHub contributions of tech guru Ruan Yifeng (opens new window)