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How do you keep your motivation as you work to earn your major and/or masters degree?
I will be getting an undergrad in kinesiology and my masters in occupational therapy, but I am worried that I will lose motivation to complete it as it is takes around six years to complete.
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Tamina Crook
pediatric occupational therapy assistant; student
60
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Greensboro, North Carolina
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Tamina’s Answer
It's completely normal to wonder if you'll stay motivated over such a long journey. I've been a Certified Occupational Therapy Assistant for many years, and going back to school to earn my Master's in Occupational Therapy while working full-time and balancing family responsibilities has taught me that motivation comes and goes—but commitment is what carries you through. Instead of focusing on how many years are left, I try to focus on the next assignment, the next exam, or the next semester. Celebrating small milestones along the way makes the process feel much more manageable. I also remind myself why I started in the first place: to continue growing professionally and make an even greater impact in the lives of the people I serve. There will definitely be challenging days, but those days don't mean you're on the wrong path. Stay connected to your goals, surround yourself with supportive people, and remember that every class is bringing you one step closer to the career you've worked so hard for. Six years may sound like a long time now, but they'll pass whether you pursue your dream or not. One day you'll be grateful you kept going.
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Deborah’s Answer
Hi Ryah, thanks for asking such an important question! We all have asked this same question in one way or another...in my personal experience, I stopped looking at "how long" it would take me to complete my education (9 years) and started focusing on the daily journey...what am I doing today to stay the course...doing my studying, having a life, staying engaged with family and friends who would also push/pull me along...life is about the journey, not necessarily about the destination....start with today and before you know it, you're done! Good luck!