When motivation wanes, the winter is long, and things don't go quite as we had planned, it can be wise to use some extra techniques to maintain motivation and progress.
An example can be smart goals:
- Specific
- Measurable
- Attractive
- Realistic
- Time-bound
- Evaluable
Most of us fall into the trap of setting goals that are too big. As a student, it might be reading all day or getting an A or B on an exam. Setting lower goals can be necessary and beneficial in some situations. It's better to pass the exam and have your loan converted to a grant than to drop out or withdraw from the exam.
Still stuck and getting nowhere?
- Make a plan with a friend to study/take breaks together
- Vary where you study – when your dorm is tidier than ever, it's time to move
- Vary how you study – write, read, draw, listen, make mind maps, etc.
- Rewards – small and often
- Breaks