Staying Motivated in Online Classes
To all the fully online students out there: How do you keep your motivation up?
I have 14 months left in my program, but I’ve hit a wall. I find it challenging to find motivation, especially when it comes to participating in discussions. I often feel like I have nothing valuable to contribute, and it feels futile at times. It’s tough, especially since I don’t intend to use my degree professionally, but I know I need to see it through. Any tips?
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I totally understand where you’re coming from. Staying motivated in an online environment can be really tough, especially when you’re not feeling a strong connection to your coursework. Here are a few strategies that might help reignite your motivation:
Reconnect with Your Goals: Take a moment to reflect on why you started this degree in the first place. Even if you don’t plan to use your degree directly, consider how finishing it might impact your life, career, or personal growth.
Set Small Milestones: Break your long-term goal into smaller, more manageable tasks. Celebrate these little victories along the way; they can provide a sense of accomplishment and keep you going.
Engage Creatively: If the discussion posts feel pointless, try to infuse your unique perspective or experiences into them. Think about how the material can relate to your interests or life beyond the degree.
Connect with Others: Reach out to classmates or form study groups, even if it’s virtual. Sometimes discussing the material can spark new interest or ideas and provide a sense of community.
Schedule Breaks and Treats: Balance is key! Schedule breaks and reward yourself when you complete assignments or reach goals. Whether it’s a small treat, watching a favorite show, or doing something relaxing, these breaks can reinvigorate your focus.
Explore New Interests: Use this time to explore areas in your field or related fields that excite you. You might stumble upon a passion that reignites your excitement for your studies.
Remember the End Game: Visualize what life will be like once you finish your degree. Keeping that end goal in sight can help motivate you during tougher times.
It’s completely normal to feel this way during your studies, especially in an online format. Remember that you’re not alone in this! Keep pushing forward, and don’t hesitate to reach out for support. You’ve got this!