The Rebbe's guidance for when learning is hard — no motivation, laziness, distraction, feeling stuck — and on study partners (IK = Igros Kodesh letter number):
Lack of motivation is an illusion. Feeling unmotivated or unable to learn is a tactic of the yetzer hara; recognize it, take responsibility for yourself and keep learning (IK 3206, 4137, 5846). Feelings of inferiority about one's abilities are unfounded (IK 3623). The real obstacles are inner, not the place or the circumstances (IK 5753). Everyone has free choice and G-d-given strength to overcome (IK 4538). Success in learning depends on your own will and effort (IK 6489, 5886, 9105); passion for Torah study develops through effort (IK 4097).
Against laziness and distraction. Study Tanya chapter 41 — even grasping its basic meaning drives away inertia (IK 3668); learning passages of Tanya by heart and contemplating G-d's presence help too (IK 4153, 6711, 7235). Remove distractions and put in real effort (IK 3297); keep learning amid distractions and seek guidance (IK 3130); on concentration, sadness and fears while learning, see IK 4543, 6481. Order in one's studies and devotion overcome confusion (IK 4099). Don't neglect learning before vacation (IK 3671), and begin learning without delay (IK 981).
Effort, step by step. Success in learning comes through real effort suited to one's own strengths (IK 2882, 9608, 10228). Progress is gradual; don't expect miracles (IK 1941, 8872). Discipline, kabbalas ol and following one's mentor's guidance come first (IK 2677, 4358, 10228, 3125). A student's task is steady learning, not hunting for questions or novelties (IK 3787, 5486); approach study simply, without overthinking (IK 4033). Slow, calm study delights the soul (IK 2923). On improving understanding, see IK 8064. It is never too late to begin learning, at any age (IK 4963).
Keep the fire. Without Chassidus, learning and mitzvos grow cold; Chassidus brings vitality and enriches the whole of one's Torah study (IK 2645, 8721, 1095, 837). Learn where your heart is drawn, which brings greater diligence (IK 9075). Rather than changing your schedule mid-year, add enthusiasm to it (IK 8594). Healthy competition among learners spurs diligence (IK 6270, 6658), and your growth shouldn't depend on others' attitudes (IK 4477). Time is precious — don't waste it (IK 2445, 7211). Serve G-d in learning with joy (IK 6159).
Learning together. Learning with a partner gives encouragement and accountability; set realistic goals (IK 5004, 4287). Arranging an older study partner for a student is normal, not embarrassing (IK 10222). Balance broad review (girsa) and in-depth study (iyun) according to your nature, alone or with a partner (IK 3563). Join public shiurim in shul (IK 2909), don't abandon public Torah classes despite the time they take (IK 2587), and learn Tanya in a group (IK 4641, 7108); on a radio Daf HaShavua shiur, see IK 9443. When learning alone, persist and understanding will come (IK 3554, 4545); on one's own, first complete Shnayim Mikra and then learn Chassidus (IK 7368). If Tanya is hard at first, begin with Iggeres HaTeshuvah (IK 7443).
Learning alongside work and life. Keep up Torah learning together with business and livelihood (IK 1016); build married life on Torah study (IK 8908, 6745); at a crossroads in life, trust in Torah study (IK 6052, 4524).
See also: Torah study – Learning by heart and memory; Torah study – Fixed times and the daily shiurim; Torah study – Learning Chassidus; Education – Yeshiva students.