Planning for a successful outcome is the basic requirement of any endeavour. Today’s football superstars didn’t get to become multi-millionaires without years of dedication to practice, planning and targets. For any life-changing event to happen, planning and goal-setting are paramount.
The most successful students on any study programme are those who set themselves realistic, achievable goals to get them from A to B. Goals, or targets that stretch you somewhat are vital for consistent effort. Even if the end result falls short of the planned criteria, it’s a likely bet that you’ll be much closer to success than you’d have been without them.
Make a personal contract based on the following 5 D’s to immerse yourself in the positive outcome of your studies. This contract should be written down, and signed.
DEFINE exactly what you expect to get from your efforts, in terms of possessions, income, lifestyle etc. Make a collage of pictures that reflects these things, and look at them regularly (e.g. before your study sessions). The more specifically you define what you want, the better.
DESIRE is what stirs us deep down. Think about why you’ve decided to take this course, and why it’s important to you. The more emotionally involved you get with your desire, the more you’ll stick with it. Pin point whether it’s the job, the status, the challenge, or the control etc. that drives you.
DEDICATION (the commitment) How much time will you spend studying each week and when? Put it on a calendar, in a diary, or on the fridge! You’ve made an appointment with yourself to fulfil your future, so keep it; it’s really important to put specific time aside to study. Let the people in your life know when that is, so they won’t expect you to do other things at that time (just as they don’t when you go to your job). Psychologically you’ll also find it much easier on yourself if you do this. It means when you’re relaxing you won’t be feeling guilty that you’re not studying, and when you’re studying you won’t be feeling you’re missing out on some other activity.
DETERMINATION – The will to stick to the plan until completion and see it through. This is your contract to ensure that you won’t let yourself down.
DISCIPLINE (to overcome the hard times) – The resolve to work around challenges and not allow them to stop you achieving your goals.
Your contract is the beginning of your new life. Those who write down their goals in a specific and realistic manner, then work diligently and consistently to achieve them, have proven to be amongst the world’s most successful people. Read your contract every day, and add positive new jottings and pictures to it that will help you when the going gets tough. Plan your work, and then work your plan with commitment. In two years time your life could be unrecognisable to those who know you now.