New year, new habits: A student’s guide to staying productive (and sane) in Sheffield

It’s a brand-new year, which means it’s time for the classic “new year, new me” energy – though let’s be honest, most of us have probably drifted from that already. But what if, just this once, we actually stick it out until at least the end of February?

With exam season in full swing, deadlines looming, and the lingering effects of too many Christmas leftovers, it’s easy to slip back into bad habits. But if 2025 is the year you finally want to shake off the student stress, boost your productivity, and stop eating pasta for every meal, we’ve got you covered.

Here’s your ultimate survival guide to smashing student life in Sheffield and becoming the very best version of yourself – or at least trying to for a few weeks.

Get moving

Look, we get it – Sheffield’s hills already count as a cardio workout. But getting active doesn’t have to be painful. Whether it’s joining Goodwin Gym, running laps around Endcliffe Park or Crookes Valley Park, or simply walking to and from places rather than abusing the Uber app, adding a little movement to your day can do wonders for stress.

Not feeling motivated? Try a free trial on Strava and turn your workouts into a competition (or at least track your progress to prove you did actually move). Bonus points if you can convince a mate to suffer alongside you – because everything’s better when you’re both out of breath and regretting life choices together.

Hide your phone from yourself

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Ever sat down for a productive study session only to end up on TikTok, deep diving into endless conspiracy theories and “What I Eat in a Day” videos? Yeah, same. The easiest solution? Just hide your phone. Stick it in your bag, leave it in another room, or, if you’re feeling extra chaotic, give it to a housemate and tell them to guard it with their life.

With exams, essays, and deadlines piling up, you need every bit of focus you can get. And if you’re a third year? Those dissertations aren’t going to write themselves – which you’ve probably heard many, many times already. You’ll be shocked at how much work you can actually get done when you’re not refreshing BeReal every five minutes.

Switch up your study spots

We all love the IC, but let’s be honest, it’s basically a social club at this point. If you spend more time gossiping than working, it’s time to switch things up. Try the Diamond for a change, or head to Western Bank for the real academic weapon vibes. Maybe venture to an actual café, like Forum on Division Street, for a productivity boost (and some top-tier coffee).

Meal prep like a pro

For those of you who are tired of eating some sort of ready meal for the fifth night in a row, please hear me out. Meal prepping could be your new best friend. Yes, it’s boring having the same taste in your mouth for a week, but honestly it’s time to grow up (sorry if this sounds harsh). It just saves you so much time, money, and the absolute horror of realising you’ve got nothing but ketchup in the fridge.

Batch cook some curries, stir-fries, or anything that isn’t just instant noodles, and you’ll be living your best, stress-free life. Thinking about what to cook for dinner seven days a week is probably one of the worst bits about student life, so be proactive, adapt those taste buds and cut it down to two or three instead.

Make fun plans and stick to them

Yes, uni is all about studying, but it’s also about making memories – so whilst you’re busy prepping for these essential academic matters, don’t forget to plan some fun for when you finish them.

Whether it’s heading to a few pubs, having a games night, or going on a wholesome day out to The Peaks at a weekend, scheduling time to enjoy yourself is just as important as revising. Reward yourselves people.

Cut down on the pints (just a bit)

We love a good West Street Live “Skibidi Rizz Bomb” as much as the next person, but maybe, just maybe, it’s time to mix things up. Nights out are great, but waking up with a throbbing headache and a bank account in shambles? Less so.

Why not try some sober activities for a change? Bowling at Lane7, a chill movie night with your mates, or even heading to a gig without getting absolutely obliterated – turns out, live music is just as good when you can actually remember it.