Teens constantly struggle to find motivation in their daily lives. The National Research Council reports “upwards of 40 percent of high school students are chronically disengaged from school” and that big problems relate to student motivation regarding what strategies adults use to boost student achievement. An article released by economist James Crotty points out that “raising academic standards and giving high-stakes standardized exams...do not address the real reasons why students are disengaged,” and further goes on to say that even if schools provide better curriculums, standards, and instructions, there will be no benefit if a student’s lack of motivation goes unaddressed. Students who have motivation tend to understand concepts better and show higher achievement rates and satisfaction with their school experience. How can adults help create a more motivated student and how can students learn to motivate themselves?
First, it’s important to understand the two different forms of motivation. One form being Intrinsic, in which the student’s motivation “arises from a desire to learn a topic due to its inherent interests, for self-fulfillment, enjoyment and to achieve a mastery of the subject”. Students with this form of motivation in school often experience much more success and engagement. On the other hand, grade-oriented students tend to be extrinsically motivated. Parents and teachers should look from the perspective of the student, and students should be asking themselves questions like: Can I do the task? Do I want to do the task? Does anything prevent me from investing time into this task?
School workloads can be overwhelming, and without positive outcomes from learning and completing assignments, students tend to avoid the work. Students procrastinate as a way of avoiding the negative feelings that come with class loads such as frustration, confusion, and stress. Adults can help get students motivated through positive affirmations, but students should remember not to rely completely on their parents and teachers for motivation and learn to achieve it themselves.
For students struggling with motivation, it helps to stay positive. They should think about the silver lining, relive past achievements, and practice self-love. Students should compare themselves only to themselves; competing with oneself draws attention to progress and creates motivation. Working on a positive mentality holds importance when it comes to finding motivation, but it also helps to create a positive environment. Working next to a window in a well lit, clean space automatically puts someone in a positive mindset. According to Ameritech College of Healthcare, “Even a little natural light, reflected off a hallway mirror, can bring real warmth and vitality to a room, which are necessary for making the best study space.” A good environment makes sitting down to do work feel much less overwhelming. Students should also remember that nothing gets better without a little effort, and though they may need outside help from parents and teachers at first, ultimately, they can do it.
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