Are your excuses stopping you from achieving your uni dream?

Let’s face it: we’re all guilty of making excuses from time to time, which ultimately stop us from achieving success. The reality is though, only we have the ability to make the positive change to be who we want to be and to stop letting excuses stand in our way of a better education, future and lifestyle. Believing in yourself is half the battle. 

Believing yourself is half the battle. It's time to overcome the biggest barriers that may be holding you back from studying at uni. 

1. "I'm not young enough"

“Live as if you were to die tomorrow. Learn as if you were to live forever.” - Mahatma Gandhi.

You might have a certain perception of what a student looks like but rest assured, students come in all ages! Whether you’re looking at a hands-on certificate or diploma, starting your first degree or completing your PHD, it’s never too late to give yourself the opportunity to grow your knowledge, follow your passion and accomplish your study and career goals.  

2. "I don't have enough time"

“Never give up on a dream just because of the time it will take to accomplish it. The time will pass anyway.” - Earl Nightingale.

You can take advantage of flexible learning options, including studying as little as one unit at a time, studying online or at whatever pace suits your lifestyle. You could start with a shorter course and then transfer the credits to keep studying if it's working out.

Examine your “if only” statements and reword them positively. For example, “if only I had more time” can change to “I can find half an hour a day to study by limiting social media time.” Believing in yourself is half the battle.

3. "It's too hard"

“I'm not telling you it's going to be easy - I'm telling you it's going to be worth it.” - Art Williams.

Studying is an investment in your future and sometimes it can be tough. We’re not just talking financially, but emotionally and physically too. Luckily, there is plenty of support to help you identify and achieve your goals. Start by exploring student support programs, free academic and tutoring sessions, financial support and scholarships, and options for flexible study to suit your life style. 

4. "I'm not smart enough"

“Everybody is a genius. But if you judge a fish by its ability to climb a tree, it will spend its whole life thinking it’s stupid” - Albert Einstein

If you didn’t finish – or ace – year 12, you’re not alone and it doesn’t mean you can’t study at university. Our 16-week Tertiary Enabling Program (TEP) might be suitable for you, oh and did we mention – it’s free and online?! You could also start with a vocational training course. No matter your past education accomplishments, there are many different ways to reach your desired qualification. 

5. "I'm not motivated enough"

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"Your work is going to fill a large part of your life, and the only way to be truly satisfied is to do what you believe is great work. And the only way to do great work is to love what you do. If you haven't found it yet, keep looking. Don't settle. As with all matters of the heart, you'll know when you find it." – Steve Jobs

Remind yourself why you wanted to start in the first place and what your end goal is - keep your eye on the prize!

6. "I'm scared to fail"

“When we give ourselves permission to fail, we, at the same time, give ourselves permission to excel.” - Eloise Ristad

Do you remember the first time you tried to ride a bike or cook risotto? If you’re anything like most people, we certainly don’t become an Olympic cyclist or chef extraordinaire the first time attempting these activities. In fact, more than likely, it ended in disaster! At first studying might seem difficult, but with perseverance and practice you’ll build the skills and knowledge you need. And there’s plenty of support and flexible study options to help you achieve success. So don’t let fear of failure be a barrier.  

7. "I don't know where to start"

“Inaction breeds doubt and fear. Action breeds confidence and courage. If you want to conquer fear, do not sit home and think about it. Go out and get busy.” Dale Carnegie

If you’re unsure what the first step should be, you can get in touch with our friendly team to chat about any questions you have, including courses that might be suitable for you and how to get started.

So, turn your thinking around and start exploring your study options, find out how to apply and talk to us if you have any questions. Get in touch.