By: Aneel Bal
Edited by: Peter Milobar
The start of a new term can be difficult. Whether it be wishing you were still on vacation or wanting to relax, it is easy to fall behind on academics. Often, distractions such as Facebook, Snapchat, Instagram, or random web browsing keeps us from doing our readings or assignments. Additionally, there may be the added pressure of improving on first term results. This, however, is not the time to give in to distractions and set aside assignments, but a time to use your inner motivation to stay focused.
Just like DJ Khaled, this will be your key to success
Personally, I sometimes find it difficult connecting the value of course materials to a future career. How is this assignment really going to make me a better engineer, politician, or accountant? It is in these moments where you need to look outside of yourself and find motivation from others. Now, how do you do this?
As I mentioned earlier, you need to derive that motivation from others. It’s not easy pushing yourself to stay up late to complete an assignment sometimes. When you start to connect what you’re doing now, however, to people that have helped you along the way, that’s when something special happens. When you don’t feel like going to your 8:00AM class, think about how your parents have helped you receive this opportunity to study at a world-renowned university. When you choose to substitute assignment time for Netflix time, think about teachers along the way that inspired you. When you feel like quitting or giving up on a course, remember all the people along the way that had a positive impact on you and empowered you to get to where you are today. It can be tempting to afford yourself an extra “break”, when you only think about yourself. When you instead remember all those that have helped you get to where you are in this moment, it becomes considerably easier to put away your phone and take out your textbook.
Symbolic Imagery, anyone?
To clarify, it’s okay to spend time on social media and go out with friends. Just be reasonable and honest with yourself- challenge yourself to use this technique at least once this month. I hope it helps you get to that next level academically and beyond.
Follow