2 answers
Tiana
Student
Baltimore, Maryland
2
Questions
Asked
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What can I do to stay motivated after multiple failed investments in education and trainings ?
Finding My Path
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2 answers
Himma Indras Cenny
Proofreader/Education Consultan/English Tutor
11
Answers
Indonesia
Updated
Himma Indras’s Answer
Hi there 👋 — first, thank you for your honesty and courage in sharing this. What you're feeling is completely valid — and more common than you might think.
Let me offer you three steps to help you stay motivated and move forward:
1. Redefine “Failure” as Feedback
Every investment — even the ones that didn’t go as planned — gave you information. Ask yourself:
What did I enjoy or dislike about the experience?
Did I choose it based on my own goals, or outside pressure?
What would I do differently next time?
Failures aren’t dead ends. They’re guideposts. Each one brings you closer to what truly fits you.
2. Reconnect with Your “Why”
What motivated you to pursue education and training in the first place? Was it a career goal, a dream, a need for security? Write that down.
Then ask:
Has my “why” changed?
Is there another path toward that same goal?
When you’re connected to a personal reason for your efforts, you’ll find the fuel to keep going — even when results aren’t immediate.
3. Start Small, Win Small
Try something low-risk that still helps you grow. It might be:
A free course in a new area of interest.
A volunteer project to apply your skills.
A mentorship conversation with someone in a field you're curious about.
Small wins rebuild confidence. They show you that growth is still happening — even in tough seasons.
Lastly, I want you to remember this:
🎯 Your past doesn’t define your future.
🌱 Growth isn’t always linear.
🚶♂️ Just showing up again is a sign of strength.
Keep asking questions. Keep learning from the experience — not just the outcome.
You’re not alone, and your next step might be the one that makes all the difference. I believe in you.
Warmly,
A fellow learner and educator who’s stumbled a few times, too.
Let me offer you three steps to help you stay motivated and move forward:
1. Redefine “Failure” as Feedback
Every investment — even the ones that didn’t go as planned — gave you information. Ask yourself:
What did I enjoy or dislike about the experience?
Did I choose it based on my own goals, or outside pressure?
What would I do differently next time?
Failures aren’t dead ends. They’re guideposts. Each one brings you closer to what truly fits you.
2. Reconnect with Your “Why”
What motivated you to pursue education and training in the first place? Was it a career goal, a dream, a need for security? Write that down.
Then ask:
Has my “why” changed?
Is there another path toward that same goal?
When you’re connected to a personal reason for your efforts, you’ll find the fuel to keep going — even when results aren’t immediate.
3. Start Small, Win Small
Try something low-risk that still helps you grow. It might be:
A free course in a new area of interest.
A volunteer project to apply your skills.
A mentorship conversation with someone in a field you're curious about.
Small wins rebuild confidence. They show you that growth is still happening — even in tough seasons.
Lastly, I want you to remember this:
🎯 Your past doesn’t define your future.
🌱 Growth isn’t always linear.
🚶♂️ Just showing up again is a sign of strength.
Keep asking questions. Keep learning from the experience — not just the outcome.
You’re not alone, and your next step might be the one that makes all the difference. I believe in you.
Warmly,
A fellow learner and educator who’s stumbled a few times, too.
Kim Brannon, PHR, SHRM-CP
Human Resources
2
Answers
Salt Lake City, Utah
Updated
Kim’s Answer
Hi Tiana! When I first started college at 18, it was tough for me. I struggled to enjoy it and couldn't stay focused or succeed. So, I decided to take a break and concentrate on work. I found joy in working and always excelled! I didn't return to college until my early 30s, going part-time while working full-time. I graduated with my BA at 38, and this time, the experience was incredible. I truly appreciated the chance to further my education. Later, I went back to earn my Master's degree at 43. Balancing work, life, kids, and school was challenging, but it was incredibly rewarding.
Be kind to yourself. Remember, your journey might look different from others, and that's perfectly okay! Discover what you love, and everything will fall into place.
Be kind to yourself. Remember, your journey might look different from others, and that's perfectly okay! Discover what you love, and everything will fall into place.