Thinking About Giving Up School? Think Again: 5 Tips to Keep You Focused And Confident

Thinking About Giving Up School? Think Again: 5 Tips to Keep You Focused And Confident

 

via

Do you ever wonder what you're doing it all for? The long hours, the late nights, the homework and the hassle? Not to mention the major expense. Ever feel like it’s all for naught? Ever feel like you'd be better off working at a mediocre job the rest of your life?

You're not alone. Most college students, I myself included, have felt this way at least once in their college careers. As for me it is like a weekly occurrence. It's hard to stay motivated when you are feeling burnt out and in debt. It's hard to keep going when you hit the wall of panic, but you've got to push through it because you and I both know that deep down you really enjoy what you're learning and know that earning your degree is the key to getting the job you want and following your dream.

So how exactly do you push through that rough patch? Keep these 5 tips in mind next time you start to freak out.

1. Think Positively

I know this one seems a lot easier said than done but I promise you, if you try it it will help. Close your eyes and imagine your dream job, imagine your ideal life, indulge a little in a nice little daydream. Now, once you have this pictured in your mind, think of the steps it’s going to take to get there. Earning your degree is one of those steps isn't it? Re-assure yourself that you are doing the right thing and it is worth it. Tell yourself that you're going to get through it and you're going to do great. Seriously, thinking positively about the situation will work wonders for your attitude.

2. GOAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAALS

That's goals plural, meaning start with baby steps and work up. Far too often when we as students make goals we focus too much on the end goal and disregard the teeny tiny goals that we need to make along the way. Reaching your goal will be much, much easier if you have a plan and a system that begins small. Set short term (very short term) and long term goals to help you get to that main goal.

3. Avoid Stress

I'm sure you're thinking I'm crazy on this one. Most people that participate in online classes usually have kids, or full time jobs, or both, meaning stress is not only impossible to avoid but a common presence in all aspects of daily life. But, I promise you, if you can get a handle on your stress you will be able to think more clearly, finish your homework, and take care of your kids. Reward yourself with a little alone time and a few deep breaths, go for a jog, or take a hot bath, whatever it is that relaxes you do it! It will keep you focused and will keep your mind in the right place.

4. Reward Yourself

Going back to goal setting, when you set a goal decide on a reward that you will give yourself once you reach that goal. Use positive, encouraging rewards to keep you on the right track. Some goals can be destructive so be careful (junk food ring any bells?).

5. Surround Yourself With Support

Your support system can make or break you. Make sure you surround yourself with family and friends that want to see you succeed and help you along the way. You may need help along this journey so you will need people that you can trust that will help you. A support system can cheer you on when you feel like giving up, they can babysit your kids, and you can share your victories with them. Being accountable to others and knowing that you have friends on your side that love you will work wonders for your confidence.