Staying motivated in classes that don't interest you

[lakmom12]

I'm trying to wrap up my prereqs and saved all of the classes that I wasn't interested in for the last two semesters. So now I'm taking Ethics (important) and Women's studies (for my humanities credit). I understand that both are relative and important classes, but I have next to no interest in taking them. The only thing that keeps me going is knowing that it brings me one step closer to my final goal. Does anyone else have this problem, how do you keep yourself motivated through the semester. I've been thinking about setting a goal/reward for myself. Complete this paper/quiz/test get a manicure/pedicure, or something similar. Any other ideas?

[TexRN, BSN, RN]

Find a subject about ethics that interests you. I could write about the unethical practice of RIC for daaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaays.

[giraffe4]

I have to take Intermediate Algebra and I hate math. So yes I have had this. Since you haven't taken it yet, maybe the professor will make it interesting, don't think so low of it yet. :)

[RunBabyRN]

I took 3 classes last summer (including women's studies) that were all general ed that I had to take for the university, and it was TOUGH. Find a way to relate it to what you're doing in nursing, and remember your goal, and that this is just one more step towards that goal.

[lakmom12]

Good points all! I'm trying to give the classes a chance, I've just always been science motivated. But there are important things to be learned in all classes and I have to keep that in mind. Eye on the prize! 6 weeks until I find out if all this hard work paid off!

[pmabraham, BSN, RN]

Good day, lakmom12:

Look at the big picture. It all ties to your dream. If you can hold onto that big picture, then it helps with motivation.

Thank you.

[efda2rn]

I'm taking Ethics this term, as well, and I am also struggling to stay motivated. I am bored to tears. The only thing interesting that has happened is that we took a week to watch "The Watchmen" in class. If I had been able to get into the Bio Ethics class I wanted initially, I don't think that I would be having the same issues. I'm also taking an Intro to Shakespeare class, and if you knew my theatrical background, you'd be surprised to hear that I am feeling uninspired. I would assume that you and I are on similar school schedules, so I know we still have about 3 weeks to go. Chin up! We can do this! I'm doing this for my BSN and that's all that matters.

[Livetoride]

I am going to be taking College Prepatory Writing II and trust me, I am not looking forward to it. Sounds very boring honestly but my COMPASS in writing wasn't the best. Eventually, I am going to have take more English for my degree so why not knock it out soon as possible.

The best thing I found when I was posed with the challenge of a subject I didn't like, assess why I don't like it and what can I do to make myself do better. If someone doesn't like a subject it is very easy to fail. I wasn't a great high school student and the only subject I thrived in was Japanese because I enjoy learning other languages.

To me, you have to make it your own experience. If you truly struggle, find ways to relate it to nursing or form a study group. Teachers can also make or break a class. Some teachers in high school, just made it uninteresting and/or I just couldn't relate to their teaching style.

If I do well on essays and tests/quizzes, I plan to treat myself with a new shirt, going to my favorite restaurant, going horseback riding, etc. little things here and there.