Struggling with your cyber certification studies? 10 ways to get motivated!

Tip 1: Set clear goals and define your purpose 

Ever feel you're studying cybersecurity just because you "should"? That approach can fizzle quickly. The key to unlocking sustained motivation is to set clear goals and identify your purpose. What drives you to pursue this certification? Is it mastering security concepts, the promise of a stable, high-paying career or the thrill of stopping cyber threats? 

As Infosec instructor John Bandler puts it you need to "Choose the future you.” Visualize the possibilities that await you with your cybersecurity certification. Picture yourself confidently navigating the evolving cyber landscape with ease, perhaps landing your dream job or launching your own cybersecurity consultancy. Remember, the more vivid your vision, the stronger the motivational force that will propel you forward. 

Tip 2: Master time and create a study schedule time 

While pursuing your cybersecurity certifications, you might find managing your time amidst life's endless demands a tougher test than the exam itself. But with a strategic approach to time management, you can carve out dedicated study time and maximize your learning. 

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The first step is acknowledging reality. Don't force long study sessions into your already packed schedule. Instead, be realistic and identify smaller chunks of time you can dedicate to focused learning. 

Creating a study schedule can be a powerful tool. This can be a simple table or chart that lays out your week, with dedicated blocks for studying interspersed with your other commitments. Seeing your schedule visually helps you understand where your time goes and allows you to make adjustments as needed. 

Once you've identified your study windows, it's time to make the most of them. John Bandler suggests setting a timer to 20 or 40 minutes for focused study sessions. During these sessions, ditch passive studying (like mindlessly rereading text) and focus on active learning techniques. Take notes, answer practice questions or explain concepts to a friend. Prioritize understanding concepts deeply rather than just memorizing facts. 

Tip 3: Rely less on motivation and more on habits 

Motivation can be unreliable. It might be high one day and disappear the next. This can lead to procrastination and hinder your study progress. But there is a better way. You can create study habits that become automatic, like brushing your teeth. 

Charles Duhigg's book, The Power of Habit, explains how habits work in a three-step cycle: cue, routine and reward. A cue triggers a specific routine, which is then followed by a reward. We can use this cycle to design habits that help us study more consistently. Here's how: 

• Tie studying to an existing habit: Do you have a set routine after dinner, such as checking emails or social media? Repurpose that time for studying instead. By attaching studying to an existing habit, the existing routine acts as a cue that reminds you to pick up your cybersecurity materials. 
• Create a dedicated study space: Find a specific area in your home or office to be your study zone. Make sure it's comfortable, has good lighting and is free from distractions. The more inviting your study space is, the more likely you are to use it. 
• Reward yourself for progress: Positive reinforcement is powerful. After completing a focus study session, reward yourself with a short break, a healthy snack or an episode of your favorite show. 

Tip 4: Refuel: Take breaks to go further 

Just like your smartphone, you need to recharge to function at your best. Marathon study sessions might seem proactive on the surface, but they can lead to burnout, zapping your motivation and hindering your learning. 

The same principles that apply to avoiding burnout at work hold for your cybersecurity studies. Don't underestimate the power of strategically timed breaks. As Dr. Stephanie DiPietro states, "The human body was not designed to sit for eight hours at a time." 

Taking short breaks throughout your study sessions can significantly improve your mood, energy levels and focus. Get your body moving! Stand up, stretch, walk around the block or do some jumping jacks. Even a few minutes of physical activity can make a big difference. 

There are also many helpful apps available to support mindful breaks. Consider using Calm or Headspace to incorporate short meditation sessions into your routine. These breaks can help you de-stress, refocus and return to your studies feeling refreshed and ready to learn. 

Tip 5: Flex your mind, embrace change 

Adapting to change and being flexible in your approach is essential for success. Life throws curveballs, and sometimes, your study approach needs to adapt as well. 

An example of adaptability comes from Ki Love, who learned the value of being able to "adapt and overcome" while in the Marine Corps. He went from being an Avionics and Fire Control Tech in the Marines to earning his Security+ certification in a different type of boot camp. 

Apply this same type of flexibility to your studies. Think beyond traditional textbook learning. Maybe you learn best by listening to podcasts during your commute or watching video tutorials while waiting for an appointment. The key is experimenting with different learning styles and finding what keeps you engaged. 

This adaptability extends beyond the "how" to the "what" of your studies. Don't be afraid to explore different cybersecurity topics that spark your interest, and don't be surprised by what existing knowledge you can apply to cybersecurity. 

Jade Brown's transition from linguistics to cybersecurity illustrates this well. Her background in linguistics and East Asian studies provided a unique perspective that enriched her understanding of cyber threat intelligence. As she puts it, "You are the architect of your own change and growth; You are going to be the one who needs to drive where you want to go." 

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Tip 6: Network and find role models 

The road to cybersecurity mastery is paved with connections. Surrounding yourself with a supportive network of mentors, peers and role models can be a powerful source of motivation and guidance. 

One expiring example is Kandice Kucharczyk, an Infosec scholarship winner who credits her mentors for playing a significant role in her success. Their guidance and support were instrumental in her journey, highlighting the transformative impact that mentorship can have on one's career trajectory. 

But mentors aren't the only ones who can inspire you. You can also find role models in various other places: 

• Online and in-person events: Attend industry conferences, workshops or meetups to connect with cybersecurity professionals. 
• Social media: Follow cybersecurity influencers and organizations on platforms like LinkedIn and Twitter. 
• Podcasts: Infosec's Cyber Work Podcast features interviews with leading experts who share their career journeys and valuable insights. Consider listening to the episode featuring Amber Schroader, author of Infosec Skills and a renowned digital forensics expert, to find inspiration. 

Tip 7: Unleash your inner warrior: Never surrender 

There will be days when doubt creeps in. That's when you need to dig deep and unleash your inner warrior, just like LaNeyshia Drew, who worked two jobs while pursuing a career in cybersecurity. Her mantra, "Anything is possible when you set your mind to it and never give up! I refuse to give up. I will succeed. No matter how long it takes," serves as a powerful reminder that persistence is the key to overcoming challenges. 

Remember, setbacks are inevitable, but they don't have to define you. View them as learning opportunities and use them to fuel your determination. The key is to never stop believing in yourself and your ability to achieve your cybersecurity goals. 

Seize every opportunity to learn and grow. Whether it's enrolling in a new course, attending an industry event, or simply connecting with a cybersecurity professional, embrace opportunities that propel you forward. With focus and a never-give-up attitude, you'll be well on your way to conquering your cybersecurity exams and achieving your dreams. 

Tip 8: Consider a boot camp to fast-track your studies 

Feeling impatient to reach your cybersecurity goals? Consider a cybersecurity boot camp as your secret weapon. 

A live boot camp is a condensed training program, typically lasting three to seven days, delivered in person or through a live online format. They provide a comprehensive all-in-one package, eliminating the need to source different study materials or scramble for practice exams. Boot camps typically include all the course materials, expert instruction from seasoned cybersecurity professionals and even an exam voucher, saving you valuable time and money. 

Boot camps offer a highly motivational and interactive learning experience. Unlike traditional self-study, you'll benefit from personalized attention from instructors who can answer your questions instantly and tailor their teaching to address your specific needs. 

In a boot camp setting, you'll gain valuable insights not just from instructors but also from the questions your peers ask. As Infosec Instructor Keatron Evans puts it, boot camps offer "a lot more one-on-one and hands-on learning. You might have a question on a particular topic, but then another student asks it slightly differently, sparking a deeper understanding for everyone.” 

Tip 9: Mix it up: Study resources for motivation 

Conquer exam boredom with a dynamic study plan. A variety of study resources keeps your mind engaged and motivation on high. Here are some components of a diverse study toolkit: 

• Flashcards: Flashcards are a fantastic way to test your knowledge of key concepts and terminology, perfect for squeezing in quick study sessions throughout the day. 
• Practice tests: Simulate the real exam experience and identify your knowledge gaps with practice tests. These tests allow you to assess your strengths and weaknesses, helping you focus on your studying efforts. 
• Self-paced online courses: Platforms like Infosec Skills offer comprehensive online courses that provide in-depth coverage of cybersecurity topics. These courses typically include video lectures, interactive exercises and quizzes to solidify your understanding. 
• Free instructional videos: Take advantage of free resources like the short Cyber Work Hacks videos. These bite-sized lessons provide valuable tips and insights specifically targeted at conquering certifications, like this episode on Security+ exam tips. 

Tip 10: Success breeds motivation: Boost your pass rate 

Did you know boot camps can significantly increase your chances of passing your certification exams? Statistics speak volumes. As Steve Spearman, an Infosec instructor, points out in this Cyber Work Hacks episode, "Average pass rates are over 90% at Infosec. Much higher than the average pass rate." Boot camps provide a structured learning environment, expert guidance and a wealth of resources. As Spearman says, "The best cheat for passing is to take a boot camp!" 

Exam anxiety is a real thing. The fear of failure can manifest as procrastination, hindering your study efforts. Infosec addresses this challenge head-on with an Exam Pass Guarantee. Knowing that you have a safety net, a chance to retake the exam at no additional cost if you don't pass on the first try, can be a game-changer. This guarantee removes the paralyzing fear of failure and frees up your mind to focus on absorbing knowledge and mastering skills. 

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Remember that feeling of overwhelm you had at the beginning? By now, you have a toolbox overflowing with powerful strategies to combat procrastination and reignite your motivation. Let's recap the 10 tips we've discussed: 

1. Set clear goals and purpose 
2. Master time and create a study schedule 
3. Rely less on motivation and more on habits 
4. Take breaks to go further 
5. Flex your mind and embrace change 
6. Network and find role models 
7. Never surrender 
8. Consider a boot camp to fast-track your studies 
9. Study a variety of resources for motivation 
10. Use success to boost your pass rate 

Now, it's your turn to act. Don't let this momentum fade. Set a study schedule, identify your learning style and dive into those resources. Remember that Infosec is here to support you every step of the way. If you have questions or want to get started, contact us here.