The big goal must remain in the distance, but you must also set daily, weekly, monthly and even yearly goals, if for example your goal is a college degree or completing a doctoral dissertation. Set a number of pages to study each day and a number of chapters for a week. Allow yourself sufficient time for the day's meals and spare time to watch television, listen to music or meet friends. Divide study time equally throughout the week, instead of working 24 hours one day and partying the next.
In addition to a promise to yourself that you will not deviate from your study schedule, make a bet with a friend, putting even money on the line. Your goal is reason enough to stay motivated, but competition with your friends will give you a boost to follow your program even when you feel tired. Choose friends with a positive attitude and who understand your struggle; they will give you invaluable support and keep your morale up.
Write down the number of pages covered each day, as well as the total number up to that point. Do the same with chapters and thematic units. Consult the numbers regularly to check if you are on schedule. In addition, your statistics will show your hard work up to that point, reveal any weaknesses in your plan and fill you with pride for what you have already achieved.
When studying is over, it's helpful to remind yourself why you are committed to your target. Think about the next day and what will happen if you succeed in reaching your goal. Don't fill your mind with negative thoughts, but remember the consequences of failure. Think of you in college -- and even after it -- and you with a low-profile job. Just like an athlete who dreams of raising a trophy, imagine yourself holding your degree on graduation day. Such thoughts will motivate you even more and help you overcome minor setbacks over the course of your study program.