Motivation Tip 1: Get Perspective!
You’ve almost certainly heard the old saying “I’ll never use
this knowledge in the real world.” It’s time to set the record without delay
once and for all—that saying is totally false!
When you start emotion like homework is a drag, it might help to
start thinking about the reason you’re doing grounding in the first place. The
work you do now really is important, even though it’s perhaps hard to see
sometimes.
In truth, your nightly homework is really work that will form
the foundation for your future. Right now you are most likely being forced to
study topics that don’t interest you at all. It may appear cruel and unfair
now, but it’s really an important and necessary “evil.”
Why? Because a strong basis must include a good mix of
ingredients. You see, you may not believe that you’ll need your algebra skills
later in life, but algebra sets the stage for understanding principles of
science, economics, and business.
It’s the same for English homework. You’ll need those skills
desperately in college, and you’ll certainly need them to succeed in the world.
Motivation Tip 2: Get an Attitude!
Are you a math whiz? A great writer? Are you artistic—or maybe
good at solving puzzles?
Most students have a special talent in one exacting area, so
they enjoy doing homework in that topic. The problem comes when they keep away
from doing the other stuff. Sound familiar?
The good news is that you don’t need to love the lot. Just pick
one area you love and become the self-chosen expert in your school. Get a
serious attitude!
Think of yourself as the very best at that one topic, and then
make it a reality. For motivation, you can create a web site or perhaps a
series of podcasts about your topic. Become a star!
Once you become the expert in your field, you will gain assurance in yourself and become more tolerant
of the topics you don’t enjoy so much. You’ll start thinking of all your least preferred
topics as “supporting” actors in your quest for a career in the area you love.
“Some kids get good grades because of their reputations. The
teacher just likes them better. I have to work harder for an A.”
Motivation
Tip 3: Get Competitive!
This difficulty could be real or imagined. Either way, this
problem is the best kind! If you have a spirited spirit, you can have a lot of
fun with this one.
If you think you’re at a disadvantage to other students, you can
turn things around by getting a competitive attitude.
Think of every project as a confront and set out to do your
assignment better than anybody else. Try to surprise everyone—including the
teacher—by doing outstanding work.
If you feel like you are part of a eccentric crowd, then it
might help to team up with a friend or two. Put your heads together and plot to
outdo the popular crowd. You’ll find that this can be very inspiring!
Motivation Tip 4: Get Your Eye on the Prize!
If you get bored just thinking about homework, then you may need
to focus on setting and reaching goals.
For instance, if you are having problem getting started on a big
science project, then divide your project into steps. Then, reward yourself
each time you finish a step successfully. Your first step could be library
research.
Set a time line for visiting the library and completing your
research. Think of a good way to payment yourself, like a frothy iced coffee
drink or another favorite treat. Then focus on the prize and make it happen!
Your parents will probably support you in this endeavor. Just
ask!
There are many variations to the “eye on the prize” system. You
may want to create a dream box or a bulletin board with pictures of big prizes,
like the college of your dreams. Fill the box or board with the objects of your
dreams and make a habit of looking at them often.
In other words, keep your eyes on those prizes!
”Why should I care? Nobody else does.”
Motivation
Tip 5: Get Support!
It’s unlucky but true that some students don’t receive much
encouragement or support when it comes to school work. Some students don’t have
any support from family or don’t even have any family at all.
But that doesn’t mean nobody cares.
There are lots of people who care very much that you succeed in
school. Just think about it—this web site wouldn’t exist if an important person
didn’t want you to succeed.
There are many people who care. People in your school have a big
stake in your success. They are judge on your performance. If you don’t do
well, they don’t do well.
Adults from all walks of life are worried about education and
the plight of students just like you. The state of education is a big topic of
discussion and discuss among adults. If you feel like you don’t get support at
home, then find an learning forum and talk about it.
You’ll find that there are lots of people who are interested and
willing to cheer you on!
