6.3: Part III- Motivation

Mindset and motivation go hand in hand. Building a positive or growth mindset requires motivation: What will inspire you to do this? What will move you to push yourself outside your comfort zone and learn to be growth-oriented?

Similarly, to be successful in real estate, you need a growth oriented mindset, good decision-making skills, and the motivation to propel you to take actions that will get you results. What will keep you going when you face tasks like cold calling hesitant sellers, patiently listening to buyers' sometimes complex priorities, or meticulously reviewing a lengthy offer? It's the internal drive fueled by your goals and vision for your real estate career that will see you through these and other essential activities.

What motivates you? What makes you decide to do what you do?

Originating in needs and desires, motivation drives us forward. For some, the driving forces include love, honor, and respect. Financial aspirations, such as securing a comfortable retirement and establishing a legacy of generational wealth, serve as powerful motivators for others. Still others find intrinsic fulfillment in assisting and bringing joy to other people. Faith and religious commitments also play a significant role in motivation.

Motivation for College Students

Staying motivated during challenging classes can be tough, but with the right strategies, students can maintain their drive and succeed. One effective approach is to set clear, achievable goals. Breaking down the coursework into smaller, manageable tasks can make the material feel less overwhelming and provide a sense of accomplishment with each completed step. Celebrating these small victories can boost confidence and keep motivation high.

Another key strategy is to stay organized and manage time effectively. Using planners, calendars, or digital tools to keep track of assignments, deadlines, and study sessions can help students stay on top of their workload. Creating a structured study schedule and sticking to it can also provide a sense of control and reduce stress. Additionally, finding a dedicated study space free from distractions can enhance focus and productivity.

Seeking support from peers, professors, and academic resources is also crucial. Joining study groups or finding a study buddy can provide mutual encouragement and different perspectives on the material. Professors and tutors can offer valuable insights and help clarify difficult concepts. By actively engaging with the class and utilizing available resources, students can build a supportive network that fosters motivation and resilience.

Example: Kiana Stays Motivated

Staying motivated during a mindset shift can be challenging, but with the right strategies, students can maintain their motivation and continue progressing. Here are some tips for a fictitious student named “Kiana”.

1. Set Small, Achievable Goals: Breaking down larger tasks into smaller, manageable goals can make the process less overwhelming. Each small success can boost Kiana’s confidence and motivation.

2. Celebrate Progress: Acknowledge and celebrate even the smallest achievements. This positive reinforcement can help Kiana stay motivated and recognize their growth over time.

3. Stay Connected: Engaging with peers, study groups, or mentors can provide support and encouragement. Sharing experiences and learning from others can make the journey less isolating and more enjoyable.

4. Visualize Success: Kiana can regularly visualize the benefits of adopting a growth mindset, such as improved grades, increased confidence, and a deeper understanding of the subject. This can help keep their long-term goals in focus.

5. Stay Positive: Practicing positive self-talk and focusing on strengths rather than weaknesses can help maintain a positive outlook. Reminding themselves of past successes and the progress they’ve made can be motivating.

6. Take Breaks: It’s important for Kiana to take regular breaks to avoid burnout. Engaging in activities they enjoy can help recharge their energy and keep their motivation high.

7. Reflect and Adjust: Regularly reflecting on what strategies are working and what needs adjustment can help Kiana stay on track. Being flexible and open to change can make the process more effective.

By incorporating these strategies, Kiana can stay motivated and continue to develop a growth mindset, ultimately leading to greater success and fulfillment in their studies. Which of these tips do you think Kiana might find most helpful?

Long Study Sessions

Staying motivated during long study sessions can be challenging, but there are several strategies students can use to maintain their focus and energy. One effective approach is to set clear, achievable goals for each study session. Breaking down the material into smaller, manageable tasks can make the overall workload seem less overwhelming and provide a sense of accomplishment as each task is completed. This can help keep motivation levels high throughout the session.

Another helpful technique is to take regular breaks. The Pomodoro Technique, for example, involves studying for 25 minutes followed by a 5-minute break, with a longer break after every four sessions. These breaks can help prevent burnout and keep the mind fresh. During breaks, students should engage in activities that help them relax and recharge, such as stretching, taking a short walk, or listening to music.

Additionally, creating a positive study environment can significantly impact motivation. A well-organized, comfortable, and quiet study space can reduce distractions and make it easier to concentrate. Personalizing the space with motivational quotes, pictures, or other items that inspire can also boost morale. Combining these strategies with a healthy lifestyle, including proper nutrition, hydration, and sleep, can help students stay motivated and productive during long study sessions.

Maslow’s Hierarchy of Needs

Abraham Maslow, an American psychologist, studied motivation and created a framework to describe it that is used to this day. His Hierarchy of Needs, published in 1943, described needs as falling into a pyramid with five levels: physiological needs, such as food and shelter, safety needs, love and belonging needs as in the desire for acceptance, esteem or need for self-respect, confidence, achievement, and recognition, and self-actualization or drive to fulfill one's potential and live a meaningful life.

These needs, or motivators, evolve over time. For example, agents new to real estate might be primarily motivated by the need for security and financial stability (physiological needs). As they establish themselves, the desire for recognition from colleagues and a sense of accomplishment (esteem needs) become stronger motivators.

Physiological Needs

Food, water, sleep, and shelter form the base of Maslow’s pyramid. These are basic survival needs. Unless struggling with homelessness, most college students' physiological needs are being met.

Safety Needs

The level just above physiological needs in Maslow’s pyramid takes into account safety needs. Feeling secure and protected from physical and emotional harm, including stability, security of body and belongings, and safety from threats comprise this level. We’ve recently seen various unfortunate examples of college students enduring physical and emotional harm if they are culturally or politically different.

Love and Belonging Needs

In the realm of real estate, Maslow's love and belonging needs translate into the desire for connection and acceptance within the professional community.

Building strong relationships with colleagues fosters a sense of belonging and camaraderie, which can be a powerful motivator. Collaborating on deals, sharing knowledge, and offering mutual support create a network that combats feelings of isolation sometimes felt by independent agents. Building trust and becoming a trusted advisor can fulfill a desire for a connection built on understanding and shared goals.

This need for love and belonging includes family connections. As a very practical example, real estate sales can give agents flexibility in scheduling their time, allowing them to participate in family events and responsibilities.

Ultimately, fulfilling these love and belonging needs fosters a sense of community and purpose, enhancing an agent's overall well-being and motivation within the real estate industry.

Esteem Motivators

In the world of real estate, Maslow's esteem needs or motivators encompass the desire for confidence, self-respect, achievement, and recognition. A successful sale brings a sense of accomplishment, boosting an agent's confidence in her abilities. Desire for a reputation as a successful agent, positive client testimonials, or industry recognition are examples of needs in Maslow’s esteem category. A real estate agent might aim to sell 30 houses annually, aspiring to attain recognition as the highest-performing salesperson in her office. Similarly, to fulfill esteem needs, some people may seek to enhance their leadership responsibilities to establish themselves as respected leaders within their community.

Ultimately, fulfilling these esteem needs creates a positive feedback loop, motivating agents to excel and maintain a high level of service.

Top of the Pyramid: Self-Actualization

Self-Actualization, the top of Maslow’s pyramid, describes the need or motivation to reach full potential, realizing personal goals, and living a meaningful and fulfilling life. What does this mean for a career in real estate sales?

Individuals at the entry level in real estate sales have probably not yet reached this level of motivation. Experienced agents, however, may have arrived at a point where they are motivated by a deeper desire to make a positive impact and contribute to their communities. This might involve specializing in sustainable properties or advocating for fair housing practices. For others, self-actualization could be about mentoring new agents or fostering a collaborative work environment within their brokerage. Ultimately, agents who reach this level are motivated by the desire to use their expertise and experience to create a legacy and contribute to something larger than themselves within the real estate industry.

Practice Zone

What motivates you? How much? Write a statement about where you stand for each of the needs described in Maslow’s Hierarchy of Needs. Begin with physiological needs. Use the questions below to guide you. 1. Physiological needs: Are these needs met? Do you have plenty of food, water, shelter, and sleep? Or are you still struggling to meet these? 2. Safety needs. Do you feel secure and safe from physical and emotional harm, including financial stability? Do you need scholarships or part-time jobs to fulfill this need? How important is job security right now? 3. Love and Belonging Needs. How important are connection, intimacy, and acceptance right now? Are you motivated to study by family, a study group, or friends? To what degree does acceptance from others motivate you to succeed? 4. Esteem Needs. To what degree does need for self-respect, confidence, achievement, and recognition lead you to strive for good grades or recognition? Are you at a place in your career that you are motivated by promotions or positive feedback? 5. Self-Actualization Needs. These needs usually come later in one’s career. Nonetheless, do you engage in activities that align with your passions and plans to leave a legacy? Are you seeking a career path that contributes to a cause you believe in? To what degree are you motivated to actions that will lead to fulfilling your full potential and living a meaningful life?

Time Management

Time management is crucial in achieving this balance. Students can create a detailed schedule that allocates specific time blocks for studying, attending classes, and engaging in personal activities. This helps ensure that neither academic nor personal goals are neglected. Additionally, using tools like planners or time management apps can help keep track of commitments and deadlines, making it easier to manage both aspects of their lives effectively.

It’s also important for students to be flexible and realistic about their capabilities. They should regularly assess their workload and adjust their plans as needed. For example, if they find that their academic responsibilities are overwhelming, they might need to reduce their involvement in extracurricular activities temporarily. Conversely, if they have more free time, they can take on additional personal projects or hobbies. By continuously evaluating and adjusting their plans, students can maintain a healthy balance between their academic and personal goals.

Time management can be challenging, but with some strategies, you can improve your efficiency and reduce stress. Here are a few tips:

1. Prioritize Tasks: Identify your most important tasks and tackle them first. Use the Eisenhower Matrix to categorize tasks by urgency and importance.

2. Create a Schedule: Plan your day or week in advance. Allocate specific time slots for studying, attending classes, and other activities. Stick to your schedule as much as possible.

3. Use Tools: Utilize planners, calendars, or apps like Todoist, Trello, or Google Calendar to keep track of your tasks and deadlines.

4. Break Tasks into Smaller Steps: Large tasks can be overwhelming. Break them down into smaller, manageable steps and focus on completing one step at a time.

5. Set Time Limits: Allocate a specific amount of time for each task. Use techniques like the Pomodoro Technique, where you work for 25 minutes and then take a 5-minute break.

6. Eliminate Distractions: Find a quiet place to study and turn off notifications on your devices. Consider using apps like Focus@Will or Forest to help you stay focused.

7. Review and Adjust: At the end of each day or week, review what you’ve accomplished and adjust your plan as needed. This helps you stay on track and make improvements.

8. Take Care of Yourself: Ensure you get enough sleep, eat well, and take breaks. A healthy body supports a productive mind.

Which of these tips do you think you might try first?

Time Management Apps

There are several time management apps that can help students stay organized and focused during long study sessions. Here are a few recommendations:

1. Forest: This app uses a unique approach to help you stay focused. You plant a virtual tree that grows while you study, but if you leave the app, the tree dies. It’s a great way to visually track your productivity and stay motivated1.

2. Focus Booster: Based on the Pomodoro Technique, Focus Booster helps you break your study time into manageable intervals with short breaks in between. This method can help maintain concentration and prevent burnout1.

3. Todoist: This is a powerful task management app that allows you to create to-do lists, set deadlines, and prioritize tasks. It’s great for keeping track of assignments and ensuring you stay on top of your workload2.

4. Evernote: This app is excellent for organizing notes, schedules, and to-do lists all in one place. It syncs across all your devices, making it easy to access your study materials wherever you are1.

5. My Study Life: Specifically designed for students, this app helps you manage your classes, assignments, and exams. It provides reminders for upcoming deadlines and helps you keep track of your academic schedule3.

These apps can help you manage your time more effectively, stay organized, and maintain focus during long study sessions. Have you tried any of these before?  Links:

• 1) https://www.bestcolleges.com/blog/best-time-management-apps
• 2) https://reclaim.ai/blog/student-time-management-app
• 3) https://www.timecamp.com/blog/study-time-tracker-apps-for-time-management-for-students
• 4) https://lifehacker.com/best-study-apps-for-college-students-1850888147
• 5) https://mashable.com/article/best-time-management-apps-students
• 6) https://www.edarabia.com/top-management-apps-students

In addition, there are several free time management apps as well. Below are a few great options:

1. Google Calendar: This is a versatile and widely-used tool that allows you to schedule your classes, study sessions, and other activities. You can set reminders, create recurring events, and share your calendar with others1.

2. Pomofocus: Inspired by the Pomodoro Technique, this web-based app helps you break your study time into intervals with short breaks in between. It’s simple to use and can help maintain your focus and productivity1.

3. Notion: This all-in-one workspace app allows you to create notes, to-do lists, and databases. It’s highly customizable and can be used to organize your study materials, track assignments, and plan your schedule1.

4. Microsoft To Do: This app helps you create and manage to-do lists, set deadlines, and prioritize tasks. It’s integrated with other Microsoft services, making it a convenient option for students who use Office 3652.

5. Trello: Trello uses boards, lists, and cards to help you organize tasks and projects. It’s great for visual learners and can be used to track assignments, group projects, and personal goals2.

These free apps offer a range of features to help you manage your time effectively and stay on top of your studies. Have you tried any of these before?

• 1) https://reclaim.ai/blog/student-time-management-app
• 2) https://www.timecamp.com/blog/best-free-time-management-programs
• 3) https://lifehacker.com/best-study-apps-for-college-students-1850888147

 

Staying Motivated and Overcoming Procrastination

Staying motivated is not always easy. Signs that motivation is flagging include procrastination, being late for meetings or appointments (or missing them altogether!), increased fatigue, negative self-talk, and others. These can be remedied over time by taking positive action; some might require a change in mindset.

Do you Procrastinate?

 

Overcoming procrastination (putting things off until later) is a common challenge for many students, but there are several effective strategies they can employ. One of the most powerful techniques is breaking tasks into smaller, manageable steps. Large assignments or study sessions can feel overwhelming, leading to procrastination. By dividing these tasks into smaller chunks, students can make the work feel more achievable and less daunting. Setting specific, short-term goals for each step can also provide a sense of accomplishment and motivation to continue.

Another helpful strategy is creating a structured schedule. Students can benefit from planning their days and weeks in advance, allocating specific times for studying, attending classes, and completing assignments. Using tools like planners, calendars, or digital apps can help keep track of deadlines and ensure that time is used efficiently. Sticking to a routine can also build discipline and reduce the temptation to procrastinate.

Additionally, eliminating distractions is crucial. Identifying and minimizing sources of distraction, such as social media, noisy environments, or unproductive habits, can help students stay focused on their tasks. Creating a dedicated study space that is free from interruptions can significantly improve concentration. Combining these strategies with regular breaks to rest and recharge can help maintain productivity and prevent burnout. By implementing these techniques, students can develop better time management skills and overcome procrastination.

Overcoming procrastination can be tough, but it’s definitely possible with some strategies and self-awareness. First, try to look at your situation and understand why you procrastinate.  Identify the reasons behind your procrastination. Is it fear of failure, perfectionism, or simply feeling overwhelmed? Understanding the root cause can help you address it more effectively.

As we learned in this textbook in other modules, it’s important to set clear goals for yourself. Break your tasks into smaller, manageable goals to make them less daunting and provide a clear path to follow. Also, we learned about the Pomodoro Technique, where you work for 25 minutes and then take a 5-minute break. This can make tasks feel more manageable and keep you focused. To use this technique, it is helpful to have a timer with an alarm.  Another technique is to eliminate distractions. Find a quiet, dedicated workspace and minimize distractions. Turn off notifications on your phone or use apps that block distracting websites.

Stay accountable by sharing your goals with a friend or family member who can help keep you accountable. Sometimes, just knowing someone else is aware of your goals can motivate you to stay on track. Visualize your success and consider creating a vision board (as discussed in this module).  Imagine how good it will feel to complete your tasks. Visualizing success can boost your motivation and help you push through procrastination.

Reward yourself when you meet an activity goal that you have set. Give yourself small rewards for completing tasks. This can be something simple like a short break, a snack, or a quick walk. Lastly, always remember to be kind to yourself. Take breaks when needed and don’t be too hard on yourself if you aren’t perfect. Procrastination is a common challenge, and it’s important to recognize your efforts and progress.  Which of these strategies do you think might work best for you?

Shown below are ten short tips for staying motivated and overcoming procrastination:

1. Set SMART Goals: Specific, Measurable, Achievable, Relevant, and Time-bound goals provide a clear roadmap and keep you focused. (Refer to Module 5.)
2. Break Down Tasks: Divide large projects into smaller, more manageable steps, making them feel less daunting.
3. Prioritize Ruthlessly: Identify the most important tasks and make yourself tackle those first, ensuring progress on what matters most.
4. Apply Time Blocking Strategies: Schedule dedicated time slots for specific tasks, creating a structure for your day and minimizing distractions.
5. Reward Yourself: Celebrate completing tasks with small rewards, reinforcing positive behavior and maintaining motivation.
6. Turn off social media! Silence your phone’s notifications and find a place that will minimize interruptions.
7. Power Hour: Start your day with a focused hour dedicated to your most important task, setting a productive tone for the day.
8. Engage in Positive Self-Talk: Challenge negative thoughts and replace them with encouraging affirmations to boost confidence and motivation.
9. Find an Accountability Partner: Find a friend or colleague to hold you accountable for your goals and provide support and encouragement.
10. Embrace Progress, Not Perfection: Have you heard that “perfection is the enemy of progress”? It’s true. Focus on making steady progress rather than achieving immediate perfection.

Here are some websites that list tips for staying motivated and overcoming procrastination:

• James Clear - Website: https://jamesclear.com/ This website offers articles and resources on productivity, habits, and overcoming procrastination.
• MindTools - Website: https://www.mindtools.com/ This website provides practical tips and strategies for improving personal development skills, including self-management and motivation.
• The Muse - Website: https://www.themuse.com/ This website offers career advice and articles on productivity hacks and overcoming procrastination.

Remember, consistency is key! By implementing these tips and finding what works best for you, you will develop a strong foundation for staying motivated and overcoming procrastination.

Practice Zone

Visit and explore one of the websites listed above. Find three tools or actions that you might use to keep yourself motivated.

Overcoming Obstacles and Managing Stress

Managing stress while balancing academic and personal commitments can be challenging, but there are several effective strategies students can use. One key approach is prioritization. By identifying the most important tasks and focusing on them first, students can ensure that critical deadlines are met without feeling overwhelmed. Creating a to-do list and ranking tasks by urgency and importance can help in staying organized and reducing stress.

Another important strategy is time management. Using tools like planners, calendars, or time management apps can help students allocate specific time blocks for studying, attending classes, and engaging in personal activities. This structured approach ensures that both academic and personal goals are given attention, helping to maintain a healthy balance. Additionally, setting aside time for relaxation and self-care is crucial to prevent burnout.

Mindfulness and relaxation techniques can also be very beneficial. Practices such as deep breathing exercises, meditation, or yoga can help reduce stress and improve focus. Taking regular breaks during study sessions to stretch, walk, or simply relax can also help maintain mental clarity and energy levels. Engaging in hobbies or activities that bring joy and relaxation can provide a much-needed break from academic pressures.

Lastly, seeking support from friends, family, or counselors can make a significant difference. Talking about stressors and challenges with someone who understands can provide emotional relief and practical advice. Joining study groups or campus organizations can also offer a sense of community and shared experience, making it easier to manage stress and stay motivated. By implementing these strategies, students can better manage their stress and maintain a balanced, fulfilling college experience.

Rosalinda: Example of a College Student Overcoming Obstacles

Handling setbacks is crucial for maintaining motivation, especially during a mindset shift. Here are some strategies a fictitious student named “Rosalinda” can use:

1. Reframe Setbacks: Encourage Rosalinda to view setbacks as learning opportunities rather than failures. Each setback can provide valuable insights into what needs improvement and how to approach problems differently next time.

2. Reflect on Progress: Remind Rosalinda to look back at how far she has come and the progress she has made. This can help put setbacks into perspective and reinforce the idea that growth is a journey with ups and downs.

3. Stay Positive: Maintaining a positive attitude is key. Rosalinda can practice positive self-talk, focusing on her strengths and past successes. This can help counteract negative thoughts that might arise from setbacks.

4. Seek Support: Encourage Rosalinda to talk to friends, family, or mentors about her challenges. Sometimes, just discussing a setback with someone else can provide new insights and emotional support.

5. Adjust Goals: If a setback occurs, Rosalinda can reassess and adjust her goals. Breaking down tasks into smaller, more manageable steps can make it easier to get back on track.

6. Practice Self-Compassion: Remind Rosalinda to be kind to herself. Everyone faces setbacks, and it’s important to treat themselves with the same compassion they would offer a friend in a similar situation.

7. Stay Flexible: Encourage Rosalinda to stay adaptable and open to change. If one approach doesn’t work, trying a different strategy can lead to success. Flexibility can help her navigate setbacks without losing motivation.

8. Focus on the Long-Term: Keeping the bigger picture in mind can help Rosalinda stay motivated. Students who continue to remind themselves of their long-term goals and the reasons behind their efforts can realize a greater sense of purpose and drive.

By implementing these strategies, Rosalinda can handle setbacks more effectively and maintain her motivation throughout her academic journey. Which of these strategies do you think Rosalinda might find most useful?  Which steps might you implement into your college study routine?

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