The internet is overflowing with motivational quotes for IAS aspirants. But, what counts is this: Are those quotes and inspirational sayings enough to motivate you?
Staying motivated in your preparation to face the “Mother of all exams” is easier said than done. Out of the lakhs of aspirants who ardently apply for the prelims, only 50% of them actually appear for the exam. From that number, a minuscule percentage clear the Prelims and go on to tackle the Mains. The number of aspirants who finally achieve their objectives as civil servants is lesser than a fraction of this percentage.
Despite the tremendous pressure, people are drawn towards the Civil Exams like a moth to fire. So, why is the UPSC exam such a big deal? What’s it that keeps aspirants motivated?
What Does UPSC Mean For Aspirants?
Ask yourself, “Why do I want to be a civil servant?” Your answer to this question is your biggest motivational factor. You may also have a burning desire to:
- Serve our country and your fellow citizens
- Bring about a positive change in the system
- Deploy your talents to bring about great development
- Devise new, feasible ideas to eradicate deep-rooted problems
Similarly, there are hundreds of motivational factors that can push you to take the plunge. However, your motivation may deflate as you cruise through this arduous journey that lasts almost fifteen months. Therefore, you need more than just inspirational quotes to keep up your spirits as you make sacrifices and take on gruelling study schedules.
Check out some ways to stay motivated as you prepare for this mentally challenging exam.
Self-Motivation Tips To Power You To Success
1. Revise and revamp your habits
So, you’ve signed in for one of the toughest exams in India, and you need to take things much more seriously. Say goodbye to your old habits like procrastination, laziness, and carelessness. Set lofty goals. Work hard. EVERY. SINGLE. DAY. Remember that nobody but you can push yourself to the limits.
2. Be aware of your strengths
In your IAS journey, you’ve got your work cut out for you. So, more often than not, self-doubt may creep in, making you feel like you’ve made a bad choice. Is it okay to feel this way? Yes, it is! It is normal to harbour self-doubt during the long study and preparation process. But you have to overcome these feelings before they overcome you. Here’s what you can do:
- Assess your inner strengths
- Write down all your talents
- Align your skills with your IAS needs
- Sharpen your capabilities
In short, focus on your strengths to motivate yourself.
3. Assess your progress
Take the time to evaluate your performance on a daily, weekly, and monthly basis. By doing this, you’ll learn where you stand in terms of preparation. When you understand your growth process, you’ll feel empowered. You can also review this chart when you hit a mental roadblock. It will help you feel good about what you have accomplished, and you will be pumped up to move forward.
4. Take a break
The adage,” All work and no play makes Jack a dull boy”, goes for you too! Take small but valuable breaks during your study schedule. And don’t study during your break! Instead, you can:
- Take a small walk
- Listen to music
- Do a few stretches
- Have a light snack
- Water your plants
You should also schedule a day off at least once a month. Believe us! This “me time” can work wonders on you, both mentally and physically. It will keep you motivationally charged for handling the different levels of preparation.
5. Be realistic with life
Anticipate problems, but do not let them demotivate you. Sometimes, your IAS journey may not be as easy as you imagine it to be. You may come across big and small hurdles that can emotionally and physically derail your progress. Sometimes, unseen circumstances may throw a wrench in your schedule. Don’t let this time loss disrupt your preparation, but try to control how many preparation days you lose.
6. Prioritise your health
Your health is your foremost investment for your IAS journey. Without good health, it is impossible to stay motivated to face your Civil Service exam. Hence, take extra care of your body. Don’t do anything that will hinder your body from cooperating with you on exam day.
7. Study with interest
IAS syllabus is like an ocean. Start by dividing the topics into those you like and those you find boring. It is best to handle these boring topics when your mind is at its sharpest. If possible, you can also approach these boring topics in different ways. However, one thing you need to remember: take notes. There’s no point in reading through lessons without taking notes. Taking notes will help you score well in challenging subjects.
8. Focus on the “now.”
There is one mantra for IAS preparation: To take things one day at a time. This is how you can implement the mantra:
- Divide your syllabus into milestones
- Create a realistic timetable
- Make a to-do list for the day’s duties
- Ensure you complete these duties
- Focus on the exam you are preparing for
- Create mini targets and strive to achieve them
- Keep a backup time in the weekend for revision
- Stick to this routine with sincerity
In a nutshell, stop looking too much into the future. Instead, make a small plan for today and follow it to stay motivated.
9. Create an ideal environment
Creating the right mood to study goes a long way in keeping you motivated. Your study area plays a big role in putting you in that right mind space. Always keep it neat, whether it is an entire room or just a corner in your hall. Keep your books and stationery organised. Ensure proper lighting and comfortable seating. You can also tack important notes on a pin-up board and look at them whenever you are revising.
10. Derive inspiration from others
Find inspiration by reading about the lives of famous people, whether they’re sports icons or business leaders. Spend a few minutes watching motivational videos now and then. It is inspiring to see how people overcame immense odds to become successful. Furthermore, it helps you put things into perspective and energise you to take on new challenges.
Stay Motivated And Chase Your IAS Dream!
“Magic is believing in yourself. If you can make that happen, you can make anything happen,” said Johann Wolfgang Van Goethe, the German poet and novelist. Whatever be your formula for success in the IAS exams, motivation is a “must-have” ingredient. So, do whatever it takes to keep that motivation fired up.
At Chinmaya Academy of Civil Services, Chennai, we are committed to keeping you focussed and motivated in your IAS journey. You can always reach out to our faculty to help you find your footing whenever you feel demotivated. At CACS, we are ready to go the extra mile for you, and that’s why we are known as the top IAS training centre in Chennai. Feel free to reach out to us!
