Sandwiching Your Difficult Tasks

 Lately, I've been trying to learn how to enjoy doing more difficult and challenging activities specifically in the realm of studying difficult material such as medicine and chemistry. My level of focus for studying this material I find very difficult to keep up with. However, lately I've been trying this new technique of "sandwiching" my difficult tasks between my more enjoyable and chill tasks. 

The problem with difficult tasks is that it can feel like there's just too much resistance to actually start studying material so I've found that starting off with a task that you enjoy or you find productive then do that first because it has a low barrier to resistance and immediately after you can transition to your difficult topic with a more positive mindset and level of energy. Plus, you will slightly grow an ability to switch between tasks. Another benefit is that you have something to look forward to after your study session because you'll have the opportunity to do your fun task once again immediately after.

For me, the fun task has been reading a book that's been on my book shelf for a while. I find this a lot more enjoyable because we essentially build a strong interest in these books when they reach our bookshelves so placing them in your study time increases your chances for success!

Unplanned events can come up of course hindering your ability to sandwich but just remember that there will eventually come a point where we will once again have to study difficult material again so it's important to recognize that this system can always be available for when we feel overwhelmed with our workload and need a break and still want the break to be productive.

An important point to remember is that just because you are working hard doesn't mean you are working smart so it's important to always keep all these things in mind when planning for your next upcoming study sessions or research projects.