As an admissions advisor, I speak at length with a lot of different people from different backgrounds, and unique stories to tell. The one common thread that I find however, is the fact that a lot of people generally talk themselves out of making all the right moves for all the wrong reasons. The other day I ran across a very interesting book by an author by the name of Stephen Pressfield called "The War of Art". This self-help book basically enables you to break through the blocks and win creative battles. Although this book is more geared towards artists in mind, it can be applied to all professionals.
Resistance by definition according to Pressfield is self-sabotage. We as human beings tend to set ourselves back through a series of actions that do us no justice. Although when there are a set of actions that need to be put in place for success, we tend to put them off because of the fear of failure. There are 5 tell-tale signs that resistance has taken over a prospective student's decision to go back to school. These tell-tale signs come in the form of excuses.
Excuse # 1- I am too old to go back to school.
There is absolutely no age limit for going back to school. The fact of the matter is, there are a lot of people who go through life differently. At my school, a large number of our students are adult learners. As the old adage states, better late than never!
Excuse # 2- College is too expensive.
Think of your education as an investment in you. If you fail to invest in you, how can you expect someone else to? Let's face it, in today's turbulent economy its essential to have a degree in order to remain competitive.
Excuse # 3- I work full-time, and don't have time for classes.
There are a few schools who know and understand this fact, and cater their class schedules accordingly. My school offers classes mornings, afternoons, and evenings. If there is a will, there is a way. If you can find 12 hours in the week you can go to school.
Excuse #4- I wasn't a very good student in high school, I probably wouldn't do well in college.
At my school we are very much career-focused. With a hands on focus, with smaller class rooms, there is no limit to the amount of knowledge you can gain! Never underestimate what you can do!
Excuse #5- What if I can't get a job after I graduate?
At the end of the day, you are responsible for finding your career. However, while searching for a school, you should keep career services in mind. My school has a great career services department, whom of which I am proud to say works tirelessly to assist our students.
If you can relate to any of the 5 statements above, then you may be fighting against your own resistance. If you would like to know more about this book, or get a copy from me simply comment or send me an email requesting it!
