Hello my fellow DLs, Of late I have been wondering what makes us to study ? Seems odd, but don't you think that the time we spend grinding in front of the PC, locating information - both online and off line; we could have used the same time enjoying with our family ? So what makes us tick ?
It's tough to balance work, family, and school, but for me, it's the promise of increased effectiveness in reaching my goals, whether through knowledge gained or through the greater credibility I'll have from advanced credentials. Besides, not everyone has that Ozzie and Harriet alternative. -=Steve=-
Personal Satisfaction Yes, my poor daughter does not get my full attention; however, if I could earn the PhD, our financial situation will improve. I spend as much time with her as time though. My dad has an MBA and the first on both sides of the family to have a college degree. I am the second. Now it is my turn to have a first - a PhD.
In addition to the things Steve mentioned, I also view my studies as a hobby. In fact, I know individuals who spend the same amount of time playing golf or softball.
Pure, out-and-out F*E*A*R makes me study. Fear of not completing my goal, fear of doing poorly, fear of not doing well enough so that my employer reimburses me and fear of letting myself down.
Fear is an excellent motivator. I have the fear that doing poorly would mean I'm spending a hell of a lot of money for nothing! -=Steve=-
Intellectual Curiosity Nothing contributes so much to tranquilizing the mind as a steady purpose - a point on which the soul may fix its intellectual eye.
I've asked myself the same thing. I watch my friends go out on weekends and have fun, while I scrape away at a job I don't like, just to finish school and get the tuition reimbursement. I get burnt out, spend a ton of cash on books I’ll never read cover to cover, writing about this, that and everything in between. 4AM red eyes and then work the next afternoon…. Why do I do it? 1.) So my kids will learn from my example and not wait as long as I did. It’s so much harder now. 2.) So I can provide better for my family. 3.) Because I HATE WORKING WITH IGNORANT PEOPLE!!!! There really is a gap in working relationships of those with an education who worked to be where they are at than those who just do it because it pays the bills and they can take it or leave it. I’m a career oriented person. 4.) Because I like to learn, but look forward to the day when it isn’t an obligation.
