Have you heard the expression “out of sight, out of mind”? The same principle applies to GRE preparation. If you take too many days away from your studies, you risk losing momentum and making it harder to stay motivated. It is natural, and even healthy, to take an occasional day off to recharge. What you want to avoid is letting one day off turn into several, as each missed day makes it more difficult to return to a consistent routine.

The reality is that preparing for the GRE requires a steady commitment, and that means deliberately placing it high on your list of priorities. There will always be other opportunities competing for your attention. Some of them will be tempting. Some may even seem urgent. However, your success on the GRE will depend on your ability to consistently choose preparation over distraction.

For example:

• Thursday happy hour: Thank you, but I need to prepare for the GRE.
• Brunch on Sunday: Sounds wonderful, but I’ll be studying for the GRE.
• A weekend road trip: Tempting, but my focus is on GRE preparation.
• Streaming another series: Not tonight. I need to prepare for the GRE.

Each time you say no to something that takes you off course, you are saying yes to your long-term goal. The fewer non-essential activities you allow to take up your time, the easier it becomes to keep your focus sharp and your motivation intact.

The good news is that this level of discipline is temporary. Once the exam is behind you, you will have plenty of time to enjoy the activities you set aside. In the meantime, the best way to sustain your motivation is to stay engaged with your preparation and remind yourself of the long-term reward waiting on the other side of the GRE.

Reach out to me with any questions about your GRE prep. Happy studying!

Warmest regards,

Scott Woodbury-Stewart
Founder & CEO, Target Test Prep