Questions: Self-Reflection: What Motivates You? As you reflect on Rashaan's journey, consider the following questions about your own sources of motivation. -What situations or emotions make you feel the least motivated about starting your educational journey? - What will help you stay motivated while you work towards your degree? In the textbox below, write down your responses to these questions. When you are finished with your response, select the "Submit Your Response."

Reflecting on personal motivation is a valuable exercise, especially when considering an educational journey. Here are some thoughts on the questions posed:

1. Situations or Emotions That Decrease Motivation:

   • Overwhelm and Stress: When faced with a large workload or tight deadlines, it can be easy to feel overwhelmed, which may lead to procrastination or avoidance.
   • Lack of Interest or Relevance: If the subject matter does not seem relevant or interesting, it can be challenging to find the motivation to engage with the material.
   • Fear of Failure: Anxiety about not meeting expectations or failing can be a significant demotivator, leading to hesitation in starting or continuing with studies.
   • External Pressures: Situations where external expectations or pressures overshadow personal goals can diminish intrinsic motivation.

2. Strategies to Stay Motivated:

   • Setting Clear Goals: Establishing specific, achievable goals can provide direction and a sense of purpose. Breaking down larger tasks into smaller, manageable steps can also help maintain focus.
   • Finding Personal Relevance: Connecting the coursework to personal interests or future career aspirations can enhance engagement and motivation.
   • Building a Support Network: Surrounding oneself with supportive peers, mentors, or family members can provide encouragement and accountability.
   • Celebrating Small Wins: Recognizing and celebrating small achievements along the way can boost morale and motivation.
   • Maintaining a Balanced Lifestyle: Ensuring a healthy balance between study, work, and leisure can prevent burnout and sustain long-term motivation.

By understanding these personal motivators and demotivators, one can better navigate the challenges of an educational journey and work towards achieving their degree with sustained enthusiasm and commitment.