How I did it: I had reminders everywhere of how important this goal was to me.  When looking at the jobs out there, I saw over and over again that a degree was required.  Also, it was so important to me that the internal nagging wouldn't let me drop out. 

Lessons & tips: Keep your head down, nose to the grindstone. Don't miss a semester, even if you are only taking one class. One class might motivate you to say, "shucks, I coulda done two, or maybe three." Nibble away at it and before you know it, you're there. And don't forget to enjoy the ride!

Resources: Looking for willpower?  Well stop!  I read "Change Anything: The New Science of Personal Success" by Kerry Patterson, Joseph Grenny, David Maxfield, Ron McMillan and Al Switzer.  Learn how willpower is not the answer, the six sources of influence that keep you in the same place and how to move those influences to work for you.  It changed my life. 

Jan 11, 2012, 08:24AM PST | 1 comment | 9 cheers