Often times, people find it difficult to concentrate on their studies because they are overextended with other obligations. If this is you, don't be afraid to tell people no. Just explain that you need to study and won't have the time or energy to do so, if you help them out. Aim to work for 30-60 minute periods with 5-10 minute breaks in between. It is a lot easier to push yourself for a set period of time, if you know you have a break coming up. Your brain needs the break to recharge and to process the information. Schedule yourself to study different subjects. Studying the same thing for too long is a recipe for boredom. Know yourself. Do you get bored easy? If so, schedule your time strategically. When are you most productive? Working when you have a lot of energy makes the work easier. If you know that you get tired at a particular time of day, schedule tasks that require less attention then. Some people are early birds. They wake up early before most people even begin their days. They take this peaceful time to catch up on their studies. Other people are night owls. They thrive after everyone else has gone to bed. Their home is quiet and they can concentrate easier. Some people don't have the luxury of waking up early or staying up late. Maybe you are one of them. If so, find a time in the day that you can devote to studying that works for you. Write down your study goals for that day. What do you want or need to accomplish? Make sure they're doable. If you need to write a 10 pages in a week, schedule yourself to write 2 pages a day for 5 days. The task will no longer seem daunting and discouraging. This works for any assignment, whether you need to read a book, study for a test, build something for science class, or whatever. Break the task into manageable parts.

Summary: Learn when to say no. Make a schedule. Make lists.

If the dog cannot be deterred, you may have to defend yourself. Make sure you enact a strong defensive stance and prepare yourself to fight. Keep one arm down and use it as a blocker against the dog. If the dog is going to bite you, it's best to receive the bite on your arm so you can still control the dog. Put your other arm behind your back. This will signal the dog to get down and behave. Mace/pepper spray will stop an attacking animal in its tracks, but you may not have tools like this on hand. If you have any liquids at all that can be sprayed or splashed at the dog, it might be worth trying. Citronella spray is an effective animal deterrent. Mace/pepper spray can also be useful at repelling aggressive dogs. In a pinch, spraying water from a water bottle may stop a dog from attacking. Shoving something towards the dog will act as a shield. The dog will bite your object instead of biting you. Anything you have on hand can be used as a shield: a purse or backpack, a sweatshirt, or even a shoe. If you need to fight, make sure you stay on your feet. Getting pinned on the ground will make it much easier for the dog to hurt you. If you need to strike the dog, try to kick it instead of punching it, as your shoes will provide some protection to your feet. If you fall or get knocked down, protect yourself. Cover your face, chest, throat, and neck. Curl into a ball to protect your vital organs. Keep your hands in fists. If you have loose fingers sticking out the dog could latch onto them and do serious damage.

Summary: Enter a defensive stance. Use chemical repellent if you have it. Shove an object at the dog. Fight the dog.

Many years ago, most workplaces were made with wood floors, which have some cushioning even though they may seem pretty hard to walk on. However, in modern times, most businesses tend to have floors made from concrete, ceramic tile or marble, which have essentially no cushioning, shock absorbency or insulative properties. Consequently, stand in an area that's covered in more springy material such as wood. If that's not possible, then change positions just for the exercise, which will promote blood circulation and may ease the tension in your feet and leg muscles. Concrete and ceramic tile will easily transfer cold to your feet which is not good for blood circulation, so stand in warmer areas without cool drafts. If you work outside, find some grass to stand on while plying your trade or waiting for the next task. Anti-fatigue mats are designed to decrease the stress on your feet and legs by providing a cushioned surface to stand on over prolonged periods of time. These mats are typically made of thick rubber, but some are also made of foam, leather, vinyl or even wood. In many cases, your employer will readily supply you with an anti-fatigue mat if you ask because they are proven to reduce the incidence of feet and lower leg problems. Thick anti-fatigue mats can be a minor hazard at the workplace if people trip over them, so always be aware of where your mat and those of your co-workers are located. Take a look around your workplace and see if there's any carpet you can stand on and still be able to do your job properly. Carpet (even the thin, cheap stuff) provides much more cushion than concrete and will help your feet and legs survive the long shifts at work. If there is no installed carpet at your workplace, ask your boss if you can bring a piece from home. Some businesses that sell carpet will give you a decent sized sample (big enough to stand on) for free. Make sure the underneath side of the carpet doesn't slide too readily on the floor, or else you're at high risk to slip and fall.
Summary: Stand in a different spot. Stand on an anti-fatigue mat. Stand carpeting.