Study - Inspiration

Its well into "that time" of year again.... University Exams are largely a unique and exclusive experience. Testing and assesment is relatively common, but University seems to have its very own special flavor to it. I for one know that I spend about 7 1/2 months for 30-35% of my course mark, and then in a three hour time frame, I attempt to scribble out the other 70%.... An interesting system, but nevertheless its common and its not going anywhere. Around this time people seem to employ all sorts of rituals, habits, "traditions" (if you will) in order to make it through this period of study before its "all over". I find that most of these are aimed at either maximising efficiency, or reducing stress. It can even be said that the former indirectly helps the latter.....

My go-to reminder is inspiration. It offers perspective, reassurance, and sense of camaraderie to realize that other people have successfully "made" it, or are working just as hard as you are. For me this sometimes takes an abstract form - as in I think about the position I am in versus a large percentage of the world (i.e. those employed by nike) who work way harder than me, for longer, and for virtually nothing  (and in the case of nike, I mean nothing almost quite literally). These folks just have to work. there ain't to two ways about it, or so they say. In that light, a few hours/days/weeks study is not so bad eh. Especially since we sign up for it, and pay the money for it, and reap the rewards afterwards.....

However, as its an inherently abstract undertaking (as I don't know any sweatshop workers), its not as effective as the second source of my inspiration.... Namely, specific people that I know that I admire or respect. there are only a handful that come to mind, and they share a common thread in their respective endeavors. These are namely - focus, determination, and effort. They put in the time, and they don't whine about it... They set goals, and work towards them. Usually this involves hardships and struggle, as most things in life tend to it seems.

Of this handful of people, one in particular jumps to mind... I just want to take a moment to show the love. This person works incredibly hard, all the time. She works part-time jobs (more than one), she studies, she is involved in her school. She manages to balance this with sports, interests, and a social life. In short, she is focused, and amazing. And its not as though this person has kayne's good life handed to her on a silver platter for the taking. She works for all that she has got. and is proud of it. That's something I really admire. The ability to take pride in working hard, and gaining what you got. That kind of satisfaction doesn't get much sweeter I reckon.

Whenever I feel like I don't want to do it, or feel the temptation of those around me that just don't have/want to put in that extra effort, I think of this girl - the things she does, her values, goals. the hard work. And I feel a sort of kindred spirit, and it pushes me to do more. It pulls me forward... I reckon its all about the influences you surround yourself with, and if thats the case, this girl is a force. ;-)

So next time you wonder why your in Uni doing these crazy exams, reach for a little inspiration, and get er' done.

Wonder Woman.

PEACE!