CREATING A SYSTEM FOR ACHIEVING YOUR ACADEMIC GOALS

Goals give us direction but systems help us make progress. -- James Clear, Author of Atomic Habits.

The general belief is that to achieve success, we must set goals. However, staring or looking all day at your written goals without creating a system for achieving them will not help you achieve them.

This does mean that setting goals are a waste of time. No, goals give us direction but having a workable system will help us make progress.

Goals do not differentiate a winner from a loser. Every student wants to graduate with distinctions. That is a goal but what differentiates the student that eventually graduates with distinctions from the one who graduates with a pass is not the goals set but the system put in place to achieve the goals.

A system in this context is the input, practice, commitment, and series of activities put in place to achieve a goal. A system is also the process (what you do) or the path to achieving a goal.

Working with a system gives satisfaction as we are able to measure our progress as we journey to achieving our goals.

As a student, your commitment to the process will determine your progress.

Now, what system should you put in place if you want to achieve your academic goals?

1). Create a personal study timetable and adhere to it.

2) Avoid distractions from any source when studying.

3). Always have all your study materials with you. This includes study notes, textbooks, pens etc. It wouldn't be good getting up during your study time.

4). Cut down excessive TV time and sleep hours. Be more productive with how you use your time.

5) Always turn in your assignments on time. They help you earn extra marks and give you room for more knowledge acquisition.

6). Form a study group with fellow students of a similar mindset of succeeding. If you prefer to study alone, that's fine but study groups have their benefits.

7) Always ask questions for clarification.

8) Study ahead of the class.

9) Start studying at the beginning of the term with the mindset of an imminent examination or test.

Remember, if you want better grades, put a good system in place, trust the process and you will achieve your goals.

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