We sometimes look for the reasons why we can’t do something. Turn this search into a positive force and it will deliver the three simple building blocks to being your best. The first two are relatively obvious, namely your own academic ability and the skillsets and supports of your teachers and educational facilities. The holy grail of this trinity comes from how you approach your studies and it centres around your positive attitude or motivation.
Let us start with a simple definition for the word "motivation": The reason or desire within a person to to achieve a particular goal or objective.
In the context of study skills, motivation is the drive we have to achieve our academic targets or goals.
The key thing about motivation is it is something that we must build from within ourselves – although others can certainly help us achieve it.
It is vital to believe in yourself. If you don’t, how can you expect to succeed? Even a small bit of self-belief can work wonders.
Make the change. Be proactive and become positive.
- Take on the responsibility – you have the opportunity and the facilities to succeed.
- It's up to you, not anyone else.
- Only you can realise your full potential.
- Only you can bring a desire and a willingness to succeed in your studies.
- Leave the past behind you. If you didn't succeed before, forget about it.
- Start afresh. Don't be labelled by anyone, including yourself.
- Know what you want and how you are going to get it.
- Have a plan of action.
- Try to replace negative thoughts with positive ones.
- Challenge yourself. This is a good place to do some goal setting.
- Praise yourself when you achieve something.
- Seek help when needed.
- See the positives in everything. Always see yourself in a win-win situation.
- Review progress and make the changes necessary – don't give up.
- And remember: there is no problem that cannot be solved.