There are so many good reasons to go back for more education. But, if you’ve been out of school for a while, it can be pretty tough to get into the back-to-school spirit. It’s natural to feel a little apprehensive. Having the right attitude will really help to set you up for success. Here are a few tips to help you get there.
1. Be prepared, on a practical level.
One way to reduce back-to-school stress is to make sure all your ducks are in a row. Buy your books and other materials far enough in advance that you don’t have to worry about finding time to work it into your schedule at the last minute. Similarly, be sure to plan your travel route, parking situation, etc., beforehand. You may even want to find your classroom buildings in advance so that you can feel extra confident and comfortable about that aspect of things. Feeling prepared should help reduce your anxiety and stress.
2. Remember why you’re doing this.
You had many good reasons for deciding to get more education. Never let yourself forget them. Education is a fantastic way to work toward your professional goals, whether you’re looking to make more money or bring in new job opportunities.
3. Talk to someone who loves you and values education.
One of the best ways to get in the back-to-school spirit is to talk to someone who’s already there. If there is someone in your life who’s a big fan of education, chances are they’re already feeling really happy and excited about you going to school. So, sit down and have a conversation with them. Tell them your hopes and fears. It’s more than likely that you’ll glean some valuable insights from the conversation. And, you might even have a really good time doing it.
4. Start to dig into materials and find what interests and excites you.
As adults, we’re responsible for generating our own passion and enthusiasm for the subjects we study. You don’t need your professors to do headstands in order to keep you entertained. Instead, embrace that responsibility yourself. Spend some time looking over your syllabi or exploring your books. Focus on finding topics, angles and ideas that interest and excite you. It will definitely help you enjoy the learning process a little more.
5. Take good care of yourself.
Self-care can make a big difference. Get exercise. Spend some time outside. Eat well. Get plenty of rest. Find some time to relax and have fun with friends and family. This should help you be at your best, and that will help you get into the back-to-school spirit in no time.
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Have you returned to school after a break? We want to hear from you! Tell us your story in the comments or join the discussion on Twitter.
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