Last Saturday I started back at college for my final module on my CIMA Managerial level. Combining work and studying is hard, as is forcing myself to get ready for college on cold Saturday mornings when I'd much rather be curled up in the warmth of my bed. But over the years I've learnt ways of keeping myself motivated.
To anyone out there struggling to keep their interest in college/studying, here's my top 5 tips to help:
Tip 1 - Remember why you're doing it
The best way to keep yourself going through everything is to remember why you're doing it. It's a bit harder when you're at school and you don't have much choice but to be at school and do exams, but during your A-Levels, Degree, Professional Qualifications keeping an idea of your end goal will keep you focused. It could be the thought of getting your dream job at the end, or getting onto the degree of your choice, or just to make your parents proud.
Tip 2 - Work at the best time for you
I study best on an afternoon, when I've had a good lie-in and know that after studying I still have time to do stuff for myself. I focus much more and work much harder than I do when I come in from work and start studying after dinner. I'm tired, I get distracted and loose interest very quickly. But everyone is different. Figure out when you work best and work during this time.
Tip 3 - Reward Yourself
Give yourself little rewards every so often. They don't have to be expensive rewards, if you're on a budget either. Treat yourself to watching a film or reading a few chapters of a non-study related book for every 2 chapters of a text book you read. Or treat yourself to a night out if you get so many practice questions right or complete a mock exam paper.
Tip 4 - Draw Up a Study Plan and Stick To it
Study plans are vital if you're balancing more than just one class or job. Start by making a list of all your deadlines and work backwards from there. Ask yourself what do you need to learn/do, how long it will take and by when. Having all this information means you can draw up a study plan which fits with all your other commitments. Once you have one, make sure you stick to it. If you don't, and you miss a session, you might struggle to catch back up.
Tip 5 - Make it Enjoyable
It's easy for me to say 'make it enjoyable' when I know how boring studying can be. But there are little ways to make it that bit more fun for you.
I like to read but I can't just sit and read a college text book. Unless it's something absolutely fascinating I get too distracted too easily. To keep me focused and give myself a little enjoyment I like to make notes from the book and with a set of coloured fine liners I'm quite happy to spent a good few hours doing work. Whereas, you might find studying with your friends fun and a good way to learn.
These are just my tips, learnt from my experiences. Everyone is different, but maybe something here will help you. Good luck with your studies.
Sarah x
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