Top 20 Good Habits for Students!

"Twenties are a golden period, so try to make the most out of it” - Did you ever hear someone older than you say this while reminiscing about their days? As true as this advice may be, it isn't easy to navigate your life, relationships, career, and goals simultaneously. Still, some changes in your perspective and action towards developing good habits might do the work for becoming your better self. Here are some good habits for students you can develop in your early years.

What are Habits?

The invisible architecture of our daily lives, habits are automated behaviour that we perform regularly without any conscious effort. Habits are formed through repetition over time, becoming deeply ingrained in our brains. Positive habits can significantly contribute to our overall well-being, while unhealthy habits like procrastination and poor sleep can hinder your growth. Understanding how habits form, their influence on our lives, and how they can be changed, helps one work on their personal development.  

Why is Building Good Habits Important?

The answer for this question is simple, to build the foundation of a productive and fulfilling life. Good habits for students, be it related to studies, health, or personal growth, helps one focus on critical tasks and achieve their long-term goals. Developing good habits as a student also helps in building discipline, enhancing time management skills, and fostering resilience in the face of challenges. Thus, good habits for students are essential for sustained success and overall well-being. 

How to Build Good Habits?

The first step to follow in forming successful habits for students is to set clear, achievable goals and break them down into small, manageable tasks. Next, you must identify the habits you want to develop or change, and understand the motivation behind it. Being consistent with your practice and committing time to the specific habit each day will take you a long way. You can even leverage habit tracker apps and set reminders to reinforce the new habit. A few additional things that you can do to form good habits for students include the following:

1. Focus on making small changes
2. Eliminate activities that many trigger a bad habit
3. Be patient
4. Build intrinsic motivation
5. Measure your progress

20 Good Habits For Students

Being a student, your mind is often filled with numerous thoughts. Amidst all this, there’s a possibility that you might miss out on cultivating good habits. Studying is the core of every student's life, and learning healthy habits for students will help you work smarter rather than struggle hard. However, many students neglect their health and hygiene conditions to beat the pressure of academics or part-time jobs. This approach is very wrong and can lead to serious consequences. So to change your life for the better, let’s explore the 20 good habits for students.

1. Do Not Skip Breakfast

Many of us overlook the importance of a hearty breakfast, and the statistics are alarming — almost 60% of students regularly skip this vital meal. Busy schedules, lack of appetite, or simply not feeling hungry are common reasons cited for this unhealthy practice. Nevertheless, studies consistently emphasise the dangers linked to skipping breakfast, such as an increased vulnerability to cardiovascular diseases, diabetes, hormonal imbalances, and diminished energy levels.

The adage "eat breakfast like a king" holds true, especially for students. Amidst hectic routines, forgetting lunch is a common occurrence, making breakfast an essential healthy habit for students. Establishing a good habit for students of enjoying a nutritious breakfast within the first 30 minutes of waking up not only supplies the necessary energy for the day but also enhances mood and overall well-being. It's time to prioritise good habits for students, ensuring a healthy and successful lifestyle.

2. Mindful Eating

As grown adults, some of us indulge in abnormal food behaviours like binge eating, skipping meals, dieting, extreme restrictions, and many more. Mindful eating, one of the positive habits for students, is a set of practices that helps you release bad habits or negative thoughts about food and brings more awareness to your eating. 

Having a mindful approach to eating proves to be a valuable strategy for managing challenges and staying focused on goals, particularly for students navigating high levels of stress, pressure, and distractions. By fostering this good habit for students, growing a relationship between their physical and emotional well-being, and embracing a conscious approach to eating, students can sustain overall wellness and enhance their academic achievements.

3. Try Limiting Alcohol Consumption 

College students commonly consume alcohol in social settings, yet a rising trend in binge drinking is now gaining popularity. This emerging issue is akin to a new pandemic in colleges and universities, demanding students' awareness of its detrimental impacts. 

From heart attacks, liver disorders, and strokes to memory and learning issues and alcohol addiction, the consequences of binge drinking are severe. To safeguard health and overall quality of life, students must proactively limit alcohol intake. They should also adopt responsible drinking habits, steering clear of the potential harms associated with this growing trend. By following one these good habits as a student will not only help you physically but will also help you mentally.

4. Drink at Least Eight Glasses of Water

Nurturing successful habits for students, like maintaining proper hydration by consuming an adequate amount of water, promises tangible health benefits. Although the recommendation of drinking eight glasses of water daily is widely acknowledged, it's noteworthy that only a fraction of individuals adhere to this guideline. 

Prioritising hydration becomes a foundation for enduring well-being. The transformative effects become evident gradually, with individuals personally experiencing the positive changes over time. Drinking eight glasses of water, one of the healthy habits for students, hydrates cells, removes waste, better physical performance, and decreases risk of kidney stones. Ensuring consistent hydration is a simple yet impactful practice that lays the groundwork for sustained health and vitality.

5. Get At Least 8 Hours of Sleep

In the bustling world of college life, students often find themselves entangled in a web of assignments, lectures, and social commitments, leaving little room for a good night's sleep. Yet, fostering the best habits for students involves recognising the pivotal role of adequate sleep. Despite the hectic schedules, incorporating healthy habits for students, such as prioritising rest, is paramount. 

Neglecting this fundamental aspect can lead to burnout, hampering both mind and body. Students need to realise that successful habits for students encompass not only academic diligence but also self-care. This good habit for students reduces stress, improves mood, increases concentration and productivity, strengthens heart, and boosts the immune system. Embracing the best habits for students, particularly ample sleep, is an investment in long-term academic and personal triumphs. It's a testament to the wisdom that a well-rested mind is a powerful one.

6. Financial Planning

Financial planning is a cornerstone for students, fostering good habits that pave the way for future success. Embracing successful habits for students, like budgeting and saving, empowers students to navigate the maze of college life without being burdened by financial stress. 

Just as students adopt the best habits for academic excellence, integrating responsible financial practices becomes equally pivotal. It's not merely about money; it's about developing a mindset that sets the stage for a prosperous future. By weaving these habits into the student fabric, financial planning becomes a vital tool, equipping students with the skills to thrive beyond the classroom. While the 20s is an age when we like to spend a lot of money, we often fail to save it. However, the 52-Week Money Challenge will help you discover details and tips on how this challenge can transform your financial habits and lead to a year of rewarding savings.

7. Set your Goals

As you navigate through your student years, the dream of becoming a successful person has likely been a constant companion. Setting clear objectives serves as a compass, guiding you through the labyrinth of opportunities that lay ahead. It's not just about harbouring ambitions; it's about meticulously crafting a roadmap to turn those dreams into reality.

In this transformative phase, setting clear goals, one of the good habits for students, becomes paramount. These habits of successful students are the bedrock upon which your success story will unfold. Setting up a goal is a good habit for students, ensuring that your mind and body are finely tuned instruments, ready to tackle the challenges of academia and beyond.

8. Regular Exercise

Embarking on the journey of academic excellence, students often overlook the transformative power of regular exercise. Just as seasons change, our bodies undergo a continuous cycle of growth, stress, and renewal. Integrating good habits for students is essential, and among them, cultivating a habit of regular exercise stands out. 

This isn't merely about physical appearance but about fostering successful habits for students that encompass both mental and physical well-being. Just as the Earth thrives with the changing seasons, so does your body flourish when nurtured with regular exercise, one of the good habits for students. It helps control weight, improve mood, boost energy, promote better sleep, and combat heart diseases. Embrace the cycle, sculpt your well-being, and witness the transformative power of harmonising your academic journey with a vibrant, exercised lifestyle.

9. Make a Study Plan for Any Upcoming Tests or Exams

Creating a study plan for upcoming tests is akin to crafting a roadmap to success for students. In the tumultuous sea of exams and tests, students often find themselves caught in the tempest of last-minute preparation, a realm where stress reigns supreme. However, weaving the fabric of a thoughtful study plan acts as a lighthouse, guiding students away from the treacherous cliffs of last-minute panic.

Inculcating good habits for students involves embracing the essence of foresight and discipline. A well-structured study plan not only dissipates the looming clouds of tension but also instils healthy habits in students, fostering a conducive environment for learning. It sets the stage for not just passing tests but excelling in them. 

Exam time can be very tough, but with the right preparation, success is within reach. The  guide to preparing for an exam is your essential companion, offering practical tips, study techniques, and stress-busting strategies.

10. Focus on One Task at a Time; Don't Multitask

Given the fact that multitasking is not a forte everyone can conquer, to prove that wrong, we tend to forget that it will have negative effects. Contrary to popular opinion, striving to judge several things reduces productivity. Instead, choose a methodical strategy and commit to completing one task at a time. 

Doing so will not only increase productivity but also improve concentration. Students are suggested to focus on one task, one of the good habits for students, to make a significant step towards improving as a student and gaining the benefits of improving focus and success. You can even use the  15 best time management apps of 2024 to streamline your schedule, boost productivity, and regain control of your time. 

11. Positive Thinking

Navigating the tumultuous sea of adolescence, teeming with stress, anxiety, and the looming shadows of depression, students find solace in the beacon of positive thinking. The student years, fraught with the pressures of academics, social dynamics, and self-discovery, often become a breeding ground for mental clutter. 

Having healthy habits aiding in mental health support for students, intertwined with the magic of positive thoughts, becomes a lifeline in the tumult. Positive thinking, one of the good habits for successful students, boosts productivity, enhances coping skills, eliminates depression, improves mental health. These successful habits for students are not just a ritual; they're a shield against the storms of doubt and anxiety. In this sanctuary, the seeds of success find fertile ground to flourish.

12. Establish a Skin Routine 

Pamper yourself with some good ol' skin routine! Irrespective of your gender, having a healthy, nourishing skin routine should be a core part of your everyday routine. Apart from its overt benefits like reduced wrinkles, keeping acne at bay, and preventing sun damage, it helps you radiate confidence, makes you feel nice about yourself, and is a good mood booster. Ensure you have the essentials of a skincare routine with a good hydrating moisturiser and high SPF sunscreen. Skincare should be developed as a good habit for students as it is a form of self-care & helps them maintain their appearance.

13. Networking

Building a robust network as a student is akin to cultivating a garden of opportunities for the future. Imagine teachers acting as seasoned gardeners, professors as cultivators of wisdom, and the vast online community as fertile soil where connections thrive. Online platforms, akin to a bustling marketplace, offer a diverse array of individuals to connect with, fostering an ecosystem of shared experiences and insights.

Developing the skill of networking, one of the good habits for students, involves embracing healthy practices like active participation in discussions, seeking guidance, and utilising online resources judiciously. Success in networking relies on these habits, creating a sturdy foundation for future endeavours. If you’re finding it difficult to kickstart your networking journey, check out these 11 best networking tips and tricks to master introductions and building lasting connections.

14. Pick a Physical Hobby or Activity

Sweat it all! One of the key factors of a healthy life is to have a hobby or activity that makes you sweat and challenges your physical strength. Many studies have shown a transformative curve of higher confidence, more stamina, better sleep quality, increased body strength, and weight management for those with routine physical activity like cycling, gym, and martial arts. It can especially be one of the healthy habits for students, as it has both physical & mental benefits.

15. Learn a New Language

In today's interconnected world, being multilingual is a potent asset. Beyond the conventional benefits of effective communication, delving into a new language nurtures cognitive flexibility and sharpens problem-solving skills. Adopting the habit of learning languages isn't just about words; it's about embracing a rich tapestry of expressions and perspectives. While learning a new language can be a daunting task, it is very helpful in breaking cultural barriers. Know about the 10 best foreign languages to learn to discover the enriching experience of mastering a language and expanding your horizons.

16. Be Grateful

Cultivating gratitude is one of the positive habits for students as it enhances one’s well-being and academic performance. Students who regularly acknowledge and appreciate the little things in life have a more positive outlook, reduced levels of stress, and good mental health. To practise more gratitude in your daily life, you can begin by keeping a daily gratitude journal, expressing thanks to loved ones, and taking a moment to reflect on personal blessings. Plus, research shows that grateful students tend to be more motivated, leading to increased effort and academic excellence. 

17. Spend Time with Like-Minded People

Another one of the good habits in students is surrounding oneself with like-minded individuals. Connecting with peers with similar goals, values, and interests, fosters a supportive environment for growth and motivation. Like-minded people can help students participate in stimulating discussions, exchange valuable ideas, and challenge each other intellectually. Plus, this good habit for students helps one maintain focus on academic priorities, while maintaining a healthy work-life balance.

18. Digital Detox

In today’s hyperconnected world, engaging in regular digital detoxification has become crucial for overall well-being. For those who are not aware of this term, it means unplugging from electronic devices, social media, and any online connectivity. Digital detox, one of the good habits for students, improves focus, reduces stress, and enhances productivity. Stepping away from the online world also helps students actually connect with people in real life and pursue hobbies that sparks creativity. What’s more? Digital detoxification promotes better sleep habits, time management, and renewed appreciation for real-world experiences. As the digital world grows, the ability to disconnect becomes not just a habit but a vital skill for maintaining balance.  

19. Take Breaks

Next is one of the good study habits for students - taking regular breaks. Contrary to the misconception that studying non stop leads to success, taking breaks prevents mental fatigue, improves concentration, and boosts retention capabilities. A study published in the Journal of Applied Behaviour Analysis found that 75% of students were substantially more productive during the session with breaks. Students can practise the Pomodoro Technique, 25 minutes of focused work followed by a 5-minute break. Additionally, one must take short walks, read something offline, or engage in brief mindfulness exercises. Mastering the art of taking breaks can transform a student’s life.

20. Note Taking

Last on our list of good habits for students is effective note taking that can significantly enhance a student's learning and academic performance. Note taking is all about actively engaging with the study material and synthesising key concepts. This good habit for students enables individuals to be more attentive during lectures, identify critical information, and be more efficient during study sessions. To inculcate this habit, students can use several methods like Cornell system, mind mapping, and the outline method. One can even use the best note-taking apps. 

In essence, fostering good habits for students encompasses a holistic approach, nurturing both physical and mental well-being. These tips, centred around health, hygiene, productivity, diet, and academics, collectively aim to instil a sense of well-being. Incorporating these good habits in students contributes to an overall positive self-perception. By embracing healthy habits for students, you pave the way for success, creating a foundation for both personal and academic triumphs.