What do you do if your motivation for continuing education as a program manager is waning?

Are you feeling burnt out? Take a break! Revisit your goals: Why are you learning? Explore online courses, podcasts, workshops—anything to keep it interesting! Find your tribe: Connect with other program manager learners. Share experiences and support each other! Focus on learning that you can use right away. Seeing results keeps you motivated. Track your progress and reward yourself for conquering milestones, big or small. Continuous learning makes you a program management rockstar – more efficient, tackling challenging projects, and potentially earning more. The field is constantly changing. Keep your skills at the forefront to stay competitive.

Taking a break can happen on a program level but also in other shapes and forms (see below). In both of the cases stepping outside can offer FRESH problem-solving perspectives. For instance we cold take a break by totally disconnecting from work (e.g.: holidays) or even alternatives like engaging with other professionals from various disciplines and allowing a variety of lenses to view challenges through (e.g.: networking event or an online coffee chat, etc). This is a little bit mental cross-training > it maintains motivation and nourishes the adaptability & creativity that is essential for a program manager’s growth ??

Continuing education doesn't always mean formal courses and certifications. Perhaps I might shift towards seeking out mentorship from experienced colleagues, exploring podcasts in my field, or reading relevant case studies. Variety in how you learn can break the monotony and even reveal new perspectives.

Set Clear and Achievable Goals: Break down your learning goals into smaller, manageable milestones. This can help you stay motivated by providing a sense of accomplishment as you progress. Seek Support from Peers: Connect with other program managers or professionals in your field who are also pursuing further education. Sharing experiences and resources can help you stay motivated and inspired. Experiment with Different Learning Methods: If you're feeling bored or disengaged with your current learning methods, try experimenting with different approaches. This could include watching online tutorials, participating in workshops, or engaging in hands-on projects

Focus on the Benefits: Remind yourself of the benefits that further education can bring, such as enhanced job prospects, increased earning potential, and personal growth. Keeping these benefits in mind can help you stay motivated during challenging times. Celebrate Your Achievements: Acknowledge and celebrate your achievements, no matter how small. This can help boost your confidence and motivation to continue your educational journey. Visualize Your Future Success: Take some time to visualize yourself achieving your educational goals and the positive impact it will have on your career and personal life. This can help you stay focused and motivated during difficult times.