Earning a two-year degree in Ohio is rewarding and exciting — it can set you up on the path to achieve the success you've always dreamed of. However, it isn't always easy.
College can be very challenging, but the hard work and dedication are well worth it in the end. Here are some tips to stay motivated in college and make it through your two-year program at Hocking College.
1. Keep a Motivation Journal
Every day, make time to write down something that's motivating you to get through college. Whether it's family, a dream job, a house or something else, maintaining a written record can help keep your head in the game. When you need a big boost, you can read through all your entries to keep you motivated.
2. Make a Vision Board
Highly visual learners might be motivated by creating a vision board — a physical collage of the things you want to accomplish in your life. Lifestyle and career imagery (photos of places you'd like to go, things you'd like to do, people you emulate) can help motivate you to stay focused on your goals when you're not feeling inspired.
3. Write a To-Do List
Sometimes staying motivated can be hard when you're juggling lots of large assignments. Writing a research paper, preparing for an upcoming exam, and finishing your group presentation can all sound like daunting tasks — until you break them down.
If you're feeling overwhelmed with all the work you're doing, make a to-do list and check things off one by one.
Try to break out large tasks into smaller ones. Instead of "write research paper," try smaller, more manageable tasks, such as "write thesis statement," "write first 300 words," and "write conclusion," so you have more wins throughout the process.
4. Call a Loved One
Hearing from someone who loves and cares about you might be the motivation you need. Often, loved ones can help provide outside perspective. During moments when you're stressed and worried you can't get through something, hearing words of encouragement from someone you trust might be just what you need.
5. Take a Break
If you're experiencing a moment of frustration and questioning your motivation, take a five-minute break. Go outside and get some sunshine, listen to a relaxing song, meditate, or spend some time chatting with a friend. You'll come back to your challenge feeling more refreshed and less frustrated.
6. Have Some Fun
If your schedule is packed with studying, working and class, you risk experiencing burnout. Be sure to mix in fun activities like clubs or sports to keep life exciting and fun. Often, those experiences and spending time with friends and family can help you get through the tough ones.
7. Exercise
Working out releases essential hormones and endorphins that help maintain healthy stress levels — and it also helps your brain function better. Incorporate regular physical activity into your schedule to prevent feelings of emotional and mental exhaustion so you can stay motivated to complete your program.
8. Reflect on How Far You've Come
You've probably already overcome several challenges in life — and have stayed motivated to build a better future for yourself. When you're questioning your motivation in college, look back on those times to remind yourself that you can do anything you set your mind to.
When you're facing a challenge during your two-year degree program in Ohio, use one of these tips to stay motivated to overcome it. You'll appreciate that you did when you're getting your degree and starting the life you've always dreamed of.
