How to Romanticize Your Study Routine (and Actually Enjoy It)
Do you ever see those “study-tok” influencers grinding away at their goals and think, “How do they stay so consistent?” One word: romanticize. These influencers don’t study just to study (but kudos to you if you can!) – they study because it is romantic. They genuinely enjoy sitting down every day to light a candle, savor a warm beverage, and truly immerse themselves in their work. But how can you do the same?
Let’s break it down first. Romanticizing is not just “setting the mood.” It involves turning ordinary, mundane moments into romantic, special ones. Romanticizing can help boost motivation, reduce burnout, and make studying something you actually want to do. Absolutely anything can be romanticized with the right tricks, and you can learn them right now.
Set the Mood: Create an Aesthetic Space:
Clean your desk or working space and add cozy or aesthetic touches (candles, plants, string lights, etc.).
Use matching stationery or a cute planner that makes you excited to open it.
Bonus: Change your phone/computer wallpaper to a calming or motivating image (or something that screams aesthetic to you).
Make it a Whole Moment:
Choose a study playlist that fits your mood: lo-fi, classical, acoustic, or instrumental movie soundtracks. (trust me: the Hamilton soundtrack is a GAME CHANGER)
Try warm lighting or study in natural sunlight for a dreamy, cozy feel.
Optional: Use a diffuser with a soft scent like lavender or vanilla. (Bonus tip: use this specific scent anytime you study to train your brain to “lock in” every time you smell it)
Romanticize Your Tools:
Use pens and notebooks you love to write with. (I love the Midliner ones!)
Decorate your notes or study guides with color coding or light doodles – make it you.
Digital study? Use apps with aesthetic themes like Notion or Goodnotes. (And check out my downloadable study templates!)
Romanticize the Routine, Not Just the Space:
Start your study session with a small ritual (ex: lighting a candle, making tea, journaling 3 intentions) to signal to your brain that it’s time to work.
Romantic routines: Study “café” at home, Sunday reset planning, or sunset study sessions.
Incorporate Joys or Rewards:
Reward yourself with small treats: a fun drink, a 10-minute reading break, or a walk outside.
Try romantic visuals: sit by a window while it rains, dress cute even at home, or use a fancy mug.
Romanticize the why—remember you are studying for your dream life.
Make Studying Feel Cinematic:
Pretend you're the main character in a coming-of-age film preparing for his/her big future. Alternatively, pretend you are a specific character (ex: Rory Gilmore, Blair Waldorf, etc.)
Take aesthetic study clips to make it feel even more meaningful. (you don’t have to post it!)
Romanticize the grind — not because it’s easy, but because it’s worth it.
Stay Consistent:
Romanticizing helps, but routines still need consistency and discipline.
Keep it realistic: even 25 minutes with a candle and playlist is a win!
Adjust your routine based on your mood and energy, but keep the vibe alive.
You don’t need to wait for motivation. You can create it with atmosphere and intention.
Challenge: What is one thing you can romanticize today? Maybe your drive to school? Your shower routine? Cleaning your room?
Thank you so much for being here with me today! Have fun romanticizing!
RISE. LEAD. SUCCEED.
Love,
Juliet & Study Strong