Since January 1, we’ve all been hearing about the best way to stick to our New Year’s resolutions. While some may be determined to lose weight (my perpetual resolution), quit smoking or become better organized, I know many of you are hoping this will be the year you earn that long sought-after college degree. Here are some strategies to follow to help you achieve your educational goals:

Be Positive --

So many times, I’ve heard adults talk about the barriers they face in achieving degree completion. Many folks provide very valid reasons for postponing their efforts to earn a degree, while others create self-imposed.obstacles. It is important to remember that for each negative, there is a positive!

“I don’t have the money,” you may say. Well, financial aid is available in the form of grants, scholarships and low interest loans. Furthermore, your earning potential will increase exponentially once you have that bachelor’s degree!

“I don’t have the time.”  Give that one another thought! How about eliminating some of the time you spend watching TV, surfing the Web or chatting on the phone. As I’ve mentioned before, online learning puts time on your side by allowing you to determine when you study and by eliminating commuting time to attend classes on a college campus.

“I’m too old.” – That’s nonsense! I often hear the lament that goes something like: ”I’ll be 44 years old  by the time I get my degree.”  The reality is that time doesn’t stop! You’ll be 44 years old anyway, so why not be 44 having accomplished your educational objectives and increased your potential for career advancement.

Imagine --

Imagine walking across the stage during your graduation ceremony and shaking the hand of the President of the College who slips your hard-earned diploma into your other hand. Or, imagine seeing the proud smiles and tears of joy on the faces of your closest family members and friends as your name is announced. Imagine filling out your next job application or completing an updated resume and finally being able to fill in the “Education” space with the words ‘Bachelor of Science” Imagine being able to apply for the promotion from which you were held back simply because you lacked a degree. And, Imagine seeing the welcomed increase that your paycheck reflects..

Set short-term goals --

Sometimes it’s easier to break down pursuit of your goal into smaller, simpler steps. For instance, you might start by calling the college of your choice and speaking to someone in the Admissions office to see how to get started. Or, get your paperwork in order by completing the college’s admissions application and requesting your transcripts from the institution or institutions you attended previously. If you really want to test the waters, sign up for and take a college course – just one. I assure you -- it will whet your appetite for more!

Enlist the support of family and friends --

Our graduates tell us that the number one reason for success is attributable to the support of family and friends. Tell your children, your spouse, your partner that you want to finish your degree and will need their support and understanding. Explain that your lifestyle may be temporarily altered; that you may need more personal time to attend to your studies; that you’ll need a helping hand around the house – but only until you’ve completed the degree that will contribute to a better life for everyone in your household. Then they’ll understand, and they’ll provide the support you’ll need as you pursue that all-important degree.

It’s a new year, folks! Remember…Sí, se puede.