Discover Your “Why”

Perhaps you’ve selected a course of study because a friend recommended it, a counselor suggested it, or a parent thinks it’s a good idea. None of that matters. You’re the one who needs to be excited about your chosen course of action. Sometimes that means discovering your “why.”

To be successful, you need to be clear about what you hope to accomplish. What’s your goal? How does it align with your values? If you have your goal clearly in mind, your learning activities will blossom. Your goal will give meaning to your work. To make this happen, change the messages you’re sending yourself. Choose messages with purpose.

Messages Without Purpose:

• I just need a passing grade.

• I don’t see how this material will help me.

• I’m not interested in this information.

Messages With Purpose:

• I can see how this connects to the big picture.

• This course will help me get where I want to go.

• I trust my instructors to give me what I need.

Focus on Your Growth

Many people believe that they have unchangeable strengths and weaknesses. When they fail a class or subject, they think they are doomed to be weak in that area. But if you have a growth mindset, you believe you can get better with hard work and practice.

Changing your inner messaging to a growth mindset means looking for the positive rather than the negative. But you must back up the change in perspective with action. The first step is to change your messaging. The second step is to look for ways to ramp up your learning.

Messages That Stunt Growth

• I can’t do it.

• I’m just a failure.

• I tried my hardest.

Messages That Foster Growth

• I can learn how to do this.

• This isn’t a failure. It’s a growth opportunity.

• I tried hard, but I can try harder.

Be Part of the Group

Often when you begin a new course of study, part of your discomfort comes from not knowing anyone. You may look at other students as competitors. You may believe other students are doing better than you are. But many of your fellow students may be secretly struggling.

A college mindset means looking at others as collaborators, not competitors. You can organize a study group or ask a classmate to lunch. You’ll feel better when you realize that others have doubts and insecurities too. If you choose to study together, you can build on each other’s strengths. It may take a few attempts before you find the right collaborators, but don’t give up.

Messages That Create Barriers

• I’m the only one who is having trouble.

• No one wants to hear what I have to say.

• I’m not here to socialize.

Messages That Create Connections

• I bet others are facing challenges, too.

• I could say something that could help someone else.

• We can get to know each other and learn the material too.

If you crave success in college, use your brain! Create mindsets that promote college success. Focus on your “why,” go for growth, and find your group. Support these mindsets with constructive messages. Talking to yourself can really pay off!

MedCert can offer you more advice and support in pursuing your educational goals. If you want help, we’re here for you.