How To Improve Your Motivation When Studying Online

Studying online has become a widespread phenomenon! Did you know, the number of undergraduates enrolled in exclusively online courses increased from 2.4 million to 7 million during 2019-2020? (Source: Devlinpeck)

Given the surge of online courses, online education, and remote jobs, it's no surprise that many people are choosing to study online.

However, studying online does come with its unique set of challenges.

It often involves solitary study, which can lead to discouragement and the development of bad habits like procrastination and lack of accountability. But fear not! There are strategies to boost motivation and achieve your goals.

Wondering how to stay motivated?

This article offers insights, techniques, and tips to trick your brain into cooperation, overcoming obstacles like laziness, procrastination, fear, and loneliness to excel in online education.

What is Motivation?

Motivation is the driving force behind actions, rooted in the 'why' of every action. To be highly motivated, it's essential to understand exactly why you're pursuing a particular goal.

Here’s how to get motivated in 3 easy steps:

Step 1. Understand why you’re pursuing your online course. 

Step 2. Define what you hope to achieve through this pursuit.

Step 3. If these questions fuel your energy, you’re motivated! 

To truly make the most out of that which inspires you, persistence and continued effort are crucial. Motivation tends to drop when in unpleasant situations, so train your mind to anticipate great rewards for tackling challenges.

This mindset can help maintain motivation throughout your online course.

What are Different Ways to Improve Motivation When Studying Online? 

1. Setting Clear Goals: One of the top motivation tips is to set clear, achievable goals. Break down your larger objectives into smaller, realistic, and more manageable tasks to boost motivation as you progress. 
2. Establishing a Routine: Creating a structured study routine for online courses is crucial for maintaining motivation. Designate specific times for studying, breaks, and leisure activities. Consistency helps build discipline, making it easier for you to stay focused for longer during online learning sessions. When you look back at how consistently you have kept your routine, you may no longer worry about how to feel motivated.
3. Utilising Interactive Learning Platforms: Wondering how to get motivated while engaging with your online courses? Choosing interactive learning platforms can significantly improve your motivation. Platforms that offer dynamic content, quizzes, and collaborative activities make the online learning process more enjoyable and fulfilling.
4. Joining Virtual Study Groups: If you are wondering how to be motivated to study, virtual study groups can be the answer! Feeling connected to a community of learners can be a powerful inspiration, and is one of the most important motivation tips.
   
   Joining virtual study groups or forums allows you to share experiences, seek advice, and celebrate achievements, creating a supportive learning environment.
   
   Research shows that nearly 60% of participating students reported a positive influence on their GPA, and praise group study as the cause of the higher scores. (Source: faultyfocus)
5. Seeking Real-World Applications: Understanding the practical applications of what you're learning adds a layer of motivation. Connect theoretical concepts to real-world scenarios, showcasing the relevance and impact of your studies. This can help you get motivated to learn core concepts and complete tough courses.
6. Embracing Healthy Competition: If you are wondering about how to be motivated to study, a bit of healthy competition can serve as a motivational catalyst. Set personal challenges or participate in friendly competitions with fellow learners. Achieving milestones becomes more gratifying when shared.

What are the Best Ways to Generate Study Motivation? 

1. Visualisation Techniques: Visualise your goals and the outcomes of your efforts. Creating a mental image of success can serve as a powerful motivator. Recognise the benefits of enrolling in online courses and stay focused on the return on investment and the career benefits of online courses. Imagine yourself achieving a big breakthrough in your career through your online course!
2. Celebrating Small Wins: Acknowledge and celebrate small achievements along the way for positive reinforcement.
3. Embracing a Growth Mindset: Adopting a growth mindset involves viewing challenges as opportunities for growth. This shift in perspective can transform setbacks into motivational fuel. 
4. Incorporating Rewards: Treat yourself to small rewards upon completing tasks. Whether it's a break, a snack, or an episode of your favourite show, rewards create positive associations with studying.
5. Regularly Reassessing Goals: As you progress, regularly reassess, and adjust your goals. This ensures that your objectives remain challenging yet achievable, keeping motivation levels optimal.

Motivation is essential for a successful online learning experience. By combining goal setting, routine maintenance, interactive learning, community engagement, and visualisation techniques, you can enhance and sustain your motivation. 

Remember, online learning is not just about acquiring knowledge; it's a journey of personal and academic growth. Stay motivated, stay committed, and let your online learning experience be both enriching and rewarding.

If you would like to sign up for online courses that can help you get motivated and focused, consider signing up for the top online courses available at The London School of Business and Finance, UK (LSBF).

LSBF is an award-winning school that is listed among the top B-schools in the world and offers cutting-edge curriculums, experienced mentors, industry-seasoned faculty members, and a host of other advantages that can help fuel your motivation.

You can engage in the online study groups, forums, and various other online class activities LSBF brings you, to help find that motivation to study.