Glasses. Contact lenses. LASIK. We do what it takes to achieve 20/20 vision so we can see things more clearly. The year 2020 is the start of a new decade, the key word being “new.” We’re all looking for opportunities, like a fresh start or a second chance. We have hope that those new things are awaiting us in 2020. The thought of that makes us excited about the potential changes that could come. The positive energy and feelings of joy associated with the thrill of a new year make us motivated and ready to accomplish more than ever. But if you lose your focus, that fades away. Don’t let your New Year’s resolution fade! Start the decade on the right track by concentrating on your 2020 vision goals.
One practical way to stay motivated and keep striving toward your goals is to, first and foremost, understand what you really want. Knowing your purpose will always be your number one tool when it comes to self-motivation, and once you establish your motivation, you can develop long-term goals that span from the beginning of the year all the way to next year and beyond! (That said, establishing shorter-term goals that serve as milestones will also help to make the loftier achievements more manageable.) In the end, no matter what you’re pursuing or how many hurdles cross your path, remembering your purpose and motivation will help you stick to the plan.
You might be wondering: “How do I figure out my purpose?” Great question! Ask yourself what keeps you motivated, even when you’re bored or tired. Why do you want this thing so badly? Why did you decide to go to college, for example? Maybe you’ve had a conversation like this with your academic advisor:
- Advisor: Why do you want to switch classes? I remember you saying you wanted to earn your business degree in order to start your own business.
- Student: Math is hard for me. I just want to avoid it.
- Advisor: I understand. Math is hard for most of us. But there are always resources available to help you succeed. For example, we have math tutors at EFSC.
- Student: I have so much on my plate right now. I don’t have time for that.
- Advisor: Of course. I understand life happens, but I assure you we work hard to make sure you have access to resources that can help you through the more challenging times. Your success is very important to us.
- Student: I appreciate it, but I don’t know if I can do it — at least not right now.
- Advisor: I’m sorry to hear that, but please know I’m here whenever you need me.
This conversation is very typical, and it happens quite frequently. Let’s look at this same conversation differently to get closer to that 2020 vision we’re all trying to achieve.
Life happens, and sometimes things are beyond your control; however, even though you should always be prepared to overcome life’s hurdles, you don’t have to overcome them alone. Going back to the imaginary conversation above: Math is a difficult subject for many students. Additional complications, such as personal circumstances or fear of failure, can make it difficult to pursue the goal of completing a math class. That’s exactly why Eastern Florida State College has dedicated success resources; together, we can help you succeed.
The student in the conversation above could argue that math won’t be important to their success as an entrepreneur, but generally speaking, entrepreneurs don’t get far if they avoid difficult tasks and situations. In other words, conquering a math course isn’t simply a matter of completing a degree; it’s also a testing ground that will helps to build the student’s endurance and persistence — skills that will be essential to their future career.
This same student might pledge to make 2020 a good year by taking classes and studying hard, but without a clear plan, goal or motivation, a difficult quiz, presentation or assignment could leave them discouraged and ready to give up. Sticking with an action plan, such as meeting with a math tutor twice a week on-campus or online, will build self-accountability, ensuring the student is on the right path to fulfilling their goals (without their motivation fading along the way).
A new decade has unfolded, filling us with excitement, hope, wishes and goals. But remember: Those feelings are not enough. Think about it. Why is the gym always full for the first few days or weeks of the year, then eventually reverts to average attendance? You have to set long-term goals, determine your reasons for accomplishing them and utilize the resources available to ensure your success. Above all, you have to take responsibility and be accountable for yourself. By following those steps, you’ll be able to feel confident in your 2020 vision all year round!
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