Annabel Benton
If you find yourself spending too much time and money working in coffee shops, use this list to spice up your study space.
The New Year is a time to reassess your goals and get back to work – or meet deadlines and exams if you’re still in education. Concentrating or staying motivated can be difficult at home, especially when it gets dark so early! Many of us favour coffee shops to get out of the house and complete those to-do lists. Cafés are a great way to boost your productivity as a dedicated space to get some work done in a laid-back atmosphere.
However, working in coffee shops necessitates buying food or drink. This can add up and cost over a hundred pounds a month! Not to mention, these spots are incredibly popular. So, a café might not be the optimal place to set up your laptop. If you’re looking for the communal atmosphere of a coffee shop without the same limitations of cost or opening hours, we’ve got four alternative working locations!
Public Libraries
This may seem like an obvious suggestion, but it’s number one on this list for a reason. Public libraries are free and quiet enough to get lots of work done outside your house. Most even have computers for those needing access to the internet. Aside from being excellent places to work or study, public libraries are an important community hub and a space to connect with people without spending money.
“student unions and co-working spaces provide a similar atmosphere to coffee shops”
You might need to sign up for a library card if you haven’t visited your local library before. However, this is a great way to support community spaces in your area, especially as libraries are shutting their doors nationwide. Once you have a card, you can also borrow books. This may have a positive effect on your productivity levels, as well as saving you money!
University Campuses
Even if you’re not a student, university campuses are the ideal option for those wanting to finish some focused work. University libraries often offer free day passes to visitors, meaning anyone can take advantage of the communal work environment. There will be countless options, from singular desks in quiet areas to larger tables in relaxed settings, so there’s no excuse not to sit down and power through your to-do list.
“combine work and an outdoor excursion by listening to an educational podcast or taking a phone call outside”
Alternatively, if you are a student, make the most of your campus by trying out different buildings or creating a study routine. Many university libraries are open for 24 hours, meaning you can harness your productivity anytime. Equally, student unions and co-working spaces provide a similar atmosphere to coffee shops without the need to spend any money.
Get Outdoors
Bear with me on this one (or bear with the weather, letting it warm up slightly). As we head towards spring, getting outdoors to do your work could be the perfect alternative to coffee shops. Public parks often have picnic benches, ideal for casual reading or email sending. Some parks also have their own cafés if getting a coffee is a key part of your work routine.
“why not arrange a study date with a friend?”
Studies have shown that exposure to natural light increases productivity and concentration. Even if you are working indoors, taking regular breaks to walk outside is a great alternative. Equally, you could combine work and an outdoor excursion by listening to an educational podcast or taking a phone call outside. Changing your routine will keep you motivated, even if it’s as simple as setting up a makeshift desk in your garden.
A Friend’s House
If you like the communal atmosphere of a coffee shop, why not arrange a study date with a friend? Making the trip to study at a friend’s house will mean changing scenery and keeping you both accountable while working. It’s a great free alternative and maintains the pressure to stay focused whilst working in a public space.
You could also offer to host a study party at your home, achieving a working environment without leaving the house. This could be a great choice for those studying towards deadlines. The group work will keep everybody supported and motivated. You don’t even have to forgo the coffee and snacks. Just stick the kettle on!
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Featured image courtesy of Kris Atomic on Unsplash. No changes were made to this image. Image license found here.
Annabel Benton
Annabel (she/her) is a BA English Literature student at the University of Manchester. She enjoys writing about student life, culture, and music.