Overcoming Motivation Challenges: Why and How to Return to School
Introduction
Returning to school can be overwhelming and challenging, especially when motivation is low. This article aims to address the key reasons why you should consider going back to school and provide practical tips to help you overcome motivational barriers. Whether you are working full-time, dealing with personal issues, or just finding education daunting, this guide will help you navigate the process with confidence.
Why Should You Return to School?
Opportunities for a Better Future
Education is often the key to career advancement and personal development. By completing your studies, you can open up new doors and embark on a path that aligns with your long-term goals. Just like the author mentioned, even if college seemed challenging initially, the benefits of having a solid education can significantly impact your life in the long run.
The Cost of Not Going to School
Considering the financial and emotional toll of not pursuing further education can be eye-opening. While the idea of working a job that does not challenge you may seem appealing in the short term, it can lead to a lifelong struggle. Even if you have two part-time jobs totaling 56 hours a week, you might still be scraping by. The pressure and stress of working continuously without any time for personal development can be detrimental to your mental health and overall well-being.
Overcoming Motivational Barriers
Self-Reflection and Setting Goals
One of the first steps in overcoming motivational barriers is to conduct a self-reflection. Ask yourself, ‘What is it I want to achieve in life? What do I need to learn to be able to do that? Will school help me to do this? What will happen if I don't go to school? What won't happen if I don't go to school? Have the people who have what I want in life gone to school?’ These questions will help you clarify your goals and motivations, making it easier to stay on track.
Motivation Isn’t Just Waiting for It to Appear
Motivation isn’t something that can be passively received. The idea of waiting for it to be dropped off like a package is unrealistic. Instead, you need to actively work on changing your mindset and taking small steps towards your goals. According to the author, even if you don’t perform as you normally would, you can still go to school. The key is to prioritize your energy and decide to go even if it means not performing at your best.
Putting Practical Steps into Action
Here are some practical steps you can take to help start your journey:
Make a plan: Write down your thoughts about whether you are going to school and park them for the next day. Get ready for the day: Set an early morning alarm, take a shower, and eat something easy and delicious for breakfast. Reframe your mindset: Say to yourself, 'Today I want to be happy, today I will be happy, and today I am happy.'These simple actions can help signal to yourself that the time to act is now.
The Future Beyond School
The mindset and discipline you develop from pursuing education extend far beyond the classroom. No matter what challenges you face in life, the ability to step out of your comfort zone and pursue your dreams with determination can be invaluable. Just as the author suggests, the ability to go with the flow in life, like riding a roller coaster and making lemonade when given lemons, can lead to a more fulfilling and happier life.
Conclusion
Returning to school, despite the challenges, is a step towards a brighter and more rewarding future. Whether it's for personal growth, career advancement, or simply because you’re not fulfilled by your current situation, consider these practical steps to help you overcome motivational barriers and make a change in your life. Why wait for motivation to come to you? Instead, take charge of your future today.