Stimulating Motivation

Motivation drives success. As a current college student I find it hard to stay motivated throughout an entire semester. Sometimes it feels that the workload is too much and will never be completed. Almost everybody has had a week were multiple things are due. Think back, have you ever had to study for two tests, a paper was due, and you had to work. Circumstances like these put stress on even the most motivated people.

Kendra Cherry a well-respected writer and educator define motivation as “the process that initiates, guides and maintains goal-oriented behaviors”. If you ever feel burdened with your school work try to set short term goals that are attainable. This process will not only help keep you on track but motivate you as well. Believing is just as important as applying yourself towards your education; If you don’t believe that success can be achieved motivation will evolve into unhappiness.  

In my opinion, motivation and drive go hand in hand. A person that is highly driven will be motivated to complete the tasks they are faced with. Find a niche in life that interests you. If you love doing things that are hands on be an auto mechanic or if public service is extremely important to you be a fire fighter. The moral of the story is finding something that speaks to you and what you believe in. Don’t try to fill the status quo, do something that is representative of you and your dreams. My belief is that if you find something you enjoy motivation will find you.

Managing College Life

As a young adult I learned that managing stress is key to being successful in college. Stress is always going to be present in your daily life but you can’t let it hold you back. From the beginning, set realistic short and long-term goals in order to keep yourself on track. There is only 24 hours in a day and it’s essential to manage your time wisely. At the beginning of the week set aside time for things like reading your textbook and studying your materials. 

Base success off your own achievements not others. I must admit in the beginning my major downfall was comparing myself to others and their ability to retain information quicker than I could. The most important step in this process is to believe in yourself. Remember that anything is possible if you put your mind to it. 

Getting enough sleep is essential to keeping your mind and body healthy. Everybody can relate to being so exhausted that their body and mind didn’t function properly. According to a study conducted by the National Sleep Foundation young adults need at least 7-9 hours of sleep each night. It’s important to remember that coffee is only a temporary fix and won’t last long-term. Trust me I’ve tried!

I’ve found that making time for yourself is a great way to lower stress levels. At least once a week or every two weeks kick back and relax. Going out to eat with friends or seeing a movie has helped me keep my sanity throughout my academic career. 

Lastly, don’t be afraid to ask for help when you’re in need. There are so many resources set in place to help students that vary from study groups, counselors, family, and friends. Don't feel like your the only one with a specific question or problem most likely their are others that are in the same position.

7 Important Steps 

1.  Time Management
2. Set realistic short & long-term goals
3. Believe in yourself
4. Sleep is essential
5. Base Success of your own achievements not others
6. Make time for yourself
7. Don't be afraid to ask for help