Many of us will be traveling by car over the Christmas holiday to visit with family and friends. I see a direct analogy between the trips that many of us will take and an someone’s goal or new year’s resolution to go back to school, finish that degree, or learn that new skill.
No doubt that making the sacrifice to return to school, and possibly doing it online, is a significant goal. A goal like this needs to be broken down into multiple steps. It’s like the “road trip” over the holidays to visit family and friends. We just can’t just jump over cities and states. I have to pass to travel on highways and roads that traverse various towns, cities, and states.
Remember — it’s easy to say you are going back to school, it’s difficult to stick to it. Here are a few tips on how to “stick” to your resolution about going back to school :
1. Start with the basics — Why don’t you begin with something that is attainable like filling out an application or two, getting your previous transcripts evaluated, or filling out financial aid paperwork?
2. Give yourself a reward — Set specific milestones and, if you hit them, plan to give yourself some type of reward.
3. Let others know — Accountability is key!
4. Don’t give up — Set a plan and even if you stumble along the way don’t ever give up.
5. Enjoy the journey — What you are embarking on will make you better. Along the way, don’t forget to smile, have some fun, and enjoy what you are learning
