Focus and Motivation

[danny1009]

As a nontraditional pre-med student, I feel so prone to getting sidetracked with other responsibilities. I gradually lose focus and before I know it, I'm not as motivated as I should be and I'm not working as hard as I should. I searched the forum and didn't find any threads that addressed this issue.
Since I'm sure I'm not the only one who has this issue, I wanted to open this thread for tips on daily things that we can do to constantly remain focused and motivated.

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[NuttyEngDude]

It really boils down to the question of "why medicine, why not something else, and why now?" Is it something you REALLY WANT to do?

But when times are a little tough, maybe you are disappointed with your latest test or you feel like your priorities aren't in order, I like to read this:
http://forums.studentdoctor.net/showthread.php?t=682184

Other than that, I use negative motivation. I think about how much I hated what i was doing before, and it motivates the crap out of me to not do it again. Think of it like this, being a non-trad is really a gift for many, a second chance to do something really wonderful that would not be granted based on the responsibilities that come with age and living.

Btw, Here's a thread on crappy jobs, lol:
http://forums.studentdoctor.net/showthread.php?t=819037

Sometimes it's just stress, in which case I like to veg out, play a video game or call a friend.

 

[RHeff]

Find something med-related to charge you up. Any upcoming shadowing opportunities? Maybe an experience like it will remind you what all the hard work you're doing is for.