Even this early in the year, we all lack motivation. Specifically, a lack of motivation towards school. We dread every hour and just barely make it through the day. If we had a greater amount of motivation, we would all be a little less gloomy, and might actually look forward to getting up for school in the morning. Setting goals, having weekend plans, and taking time to do something you love are just a few things that may boost your mood during the school week.
As Bo Jackson, a former football player once said, “Set your goals high, and don’t stop till you get there.” We all have dreams and goals, but are you taking time everyday to make it a reality? Some goals are more realistic than others. If you have a goal, you have something that you are working towards. A goal could be a class average you strive for, getting into your dream school, obtaining pride in yourself, and more. Take the time to make a list of all of your goals, and check them off as you accomplish each of them. You will feel better about yourself after you get things done, and your positive attitude will penetrate throughout your school day.
Try to put aside your books on the weekend and try doing something that you enjoy: hiking, meditating, reading, etc. Personally, an exciting weekend motivates me. I will purposely make fun plans for the weekend to motivate me throughout the rough school week. So, whenever I feel as though I am about to drop everything, I tell myself I need to work hard now so I can enjoy my weekend later.
Rewarding yourself is another way to become motivated. According to Eric Barker, whose blog “Barking Up the Wrong Tree” explores the science of happiness, “Rewards feel good. Penalties feel bad. And that’s why they both can work well for motivating you” (New York Times). Once I tell myself I can binge watch Netflix after I finish my English essay, I gain a sudden surge of motivation. You can also tell yourself that if you don’t finish your essay, you will get a failing grade, whichever works best. I think it’s very important to take a step back every once in a while to see if you could make your life a bit easier.
