Myths about motivation
A common myth about motivation is that it has to be there before we can start studying. This can be problematic because it makes us vulnerable to factors such as our mood on the day or our interest in the task we have to carry out.
In order to stop putting things off, it is crucial to train our ability to cross the threshold and start on a task, regardless of motivation levels. We can learn to “work to get motivated” by starting to study even though we lack the desire. Motivation can then come after a while, sometimes through the act of studying, other times through the rewarding feeling of coping with something even though it is difficult, or from experiencing that we are able to influence our own situation. A positive spiral can then occur.
When considering motivation, it is important to know that we simply have no direct control over it. We cannot, therefore, increase motivation just by wishing it. However, we can remind ourselves of the value of a certain course, our long-term goals with a certain programme, or in various ways incorporate rewards for work done in our normal study day. In this way, we can indirectly affect our motivation to get through something.
Things that indirectly affect motivation include:
- How far away the deadline is
The longer until the deadline, the greater the risk of putting things off. - How valuable the task feels based on our goals and values
This affects how rewarding it feels to work. - Our expectations on reaching our goal and getting a reward
That is, what we associate with the task and out ability to do the work. - Our ability to keep working and cope with it feeling tough without being distracted by more fun things
That is, our ability to control impulses to escape from discomfort.
What is it like for you?
How do you usually think when you lack the motivation to start studying?
Do you do anything to increase your motivation or just wait for it to come?
How does that usually work?
Fact box
