How to handle doubt and lost motivation for your studies

For many students, doubt may begin after the first semesters, when the initial fascination with the new study starts to wane, and the hard work really begins to set in. On top of that, the sun’s rays hide behind the horizon most of the day, and the cold sets in. Wintertime is peak season for study doubt.

But doubt should not be seen solely as a negative thing. It can be a signal that you are seriously considering your choice and reflecting on your future, which is an important part of your development as a student.

According to the counsellor, this openness can allow you to step into some spaces and develop in other areas. If you were never in doubt about anything, you might just keep going, but then there would also be many things you could miss. In this way, doubt can also help give you new and exciting experiences.

Especially in the first year, the risk of dropping out is high. According to figures from the Ministry of Education and Research, between 2010-2020, there was a dropout rate of 17% in IT and engineering programs. Despite several initiatives, it is still almost one in five students who choose to put the books aside and say goodbye before the first year is over.

It is important to understand that doubt is a completely natural part of being a student – especially at a technical university, where the pressure can be high.

The most important thing is how you choose to handle your doubt. When you reflect on your choices, you show yourself that you take your future seriously and are not just enduring life or doing what others expect of you.

No matter what you choose to do, there are plenty of resources and support available. Talk to your academic advisor, your fellow students, and your friends. And remember, doubt is a natural part of finding your way in life. By taking your feelings of doubt seriously and actively working with them, you will become stronger, whether you choose to continue with your education or find a new direction.

If you ultimately conclude that the study you have chosen is not right for you, that is also completely okay. Changing direction is not a failure – it is an opportunity to find something that better suits your ambitions and interests. Your time at university is largely about discovering who you are and what you want to do with your working life.

A key to maintaining motivation is setting clear goals. It can be easier to keep your energy up if you have both big and small goals to work towards. The big goals can be, for example, simply completing your education or getting through the semester, while the smaller goals can be reading a certain number of pages in a week.

A good daily routine is crucial for creating a balance between studies, leisure, and work. The fixed structure will minimize the risk of stress and give you a sense of control. Both of these will also make it easier for you to find time and energy for exercise or relaxation. When you think about planning, it often involves looking ahead and seeing what you need to do and when. But according to the counsellor, it can also be a good idea to look back a bit.

Student life can sometimes feel lonely. It can be hard to avoid. But good relationships can support you during difficult periods, give you a pep talk, and lift you up again when you feel behind on your syllabus or overwhelmed by group work. Having someone to share both successes and frustrations with can make a big difference and give you new energy to continue.

Finally, it is important to accept that your motivation can fluctuate. The most important thing is not to let these periods define your study time. Use them as an opportunity to learn more about yourself and your needs, and don’t let temporary downturns prevent you from reaching your goals.