Hey,<\/p>\n
In this email:<\/p>\n
Motivation–Is it really *so* difficult?
\n<\/p>\n
—<\/p>\n
The #1 Extra-Hidden Secret to Motivation<\/p>\n
Of course, there is no such thing. Motivation isn’t about secrets,
\nbut mostly common sense.<\/p>\n
Unfortunately, academic environments often make it difficult to
\nstay motivated. Lousy teachers, emphasis on grades over actual
\nunderstanding, standardized tests.<\/p>\n
My suggestion for staying motivated within your program is:<\/p>\n
1. Develop a deep extra-curricular interest in the subject.
\n2. Emphasize discipline over passion.<\/p>\n
The reason many people (including myself) often get in a slump
\nfor staying motivated with their studies is often less the subject
\nitself and more on the environment it is being taught. I’ve found
\nthat almost any subject can be fascinating, however by taking
\nout the carrots and sticks of exams, attendance records and group
\nwork, the natural luster becomes dull.<\/p>\n
My solution is to remind myself of why a subject can be intriguing
\ndespite the scholastic drudgery. Develop a strong, personal
\ninterest in your field through projects or extra-curricular
\nreading, and that can help you stay motivated within your
\nsubject.<\/p>\n
Here’s a few examples:<\/p>\n
-Computer science? -> Create your own computer game.
\n-Business? -> Start a small business project on the side.
\n-Statistics? -> Volunteer at a lab researching something cool.
\n-Chemistry? -> Who said paper-mach\u00e9 volcanoes were just for kids?<\/p>\n
The second point is to emphasize discipline over motivation in
\nyour studies. Yes, there will be parts of school you don’t like,
\nthe goal is to cultivate discipline so you can push through the
\nless interesting bits and sink your teeth into the things you
\nactually care about.<\/p>\n
Oh, and my friend Stefan Knapen released his own ebook on
\ncollege motivation:<\/p>\n