How to Stay Motivated in Self-Paced Learning (Even When Netflix Calls)

Self-paced learning can be a great tool and a great way to manage your time; however, it can be difficult to stay motivated when your couch, snacks, and TV are calling your name. As a busy educator, you deserve downtime, but it’s important that you remember your commitment and goals toward professional development and stay motivated.

Here’s how to stay focused, energized, and on track even when Netflix is calling.

1. Find with Your “Why”

Before you hit play on another episode, pause and ask: Why did I enroll in this course?

• To move up the salary schedule?
• To better support your students?
• To feel more confident in your teaching?

Write your “why” on a sticky note and keep it near your workspace. Motivation fades but purpose sticks.

2. Set Micro-Goals and Reward Yourself

Instead of thinking, “I need to finish this whole course,” try:

• “I’ll complete one module today.”
• “I’ll spend 30 minutes reviewing tonight.”
• “I’ll finish the quiz before lunch.”

Then reward yourself: a walk, a latte, or an episode of your favorite show.

3. Create a Distraction-Free Workspace

TV, TikTok, YouTube — they’re all productivity kryptonite. Try this:

• Use a browser extension like StayFocusd to block streaming sites during study time.
• Put your phone in another room.
• Use headphones and ambient music to stay in the zone.

Even 25 focused minutes can move you forward.

4. Make It Meaningful

CE Credits Online courses are designed to be practical and relevant, but you can make them even more engaging:

• Use what you’re learning in your current classroom.
• Write down ideas to try next week.
• Share your findings with your fellow teachers.

When learning feels useful, it’s easier to stay motivated.

5. Try Developing your Profession with a Friend

Self-paced doesn’t mean solo.

• Invite a colleague to take the course with you.
• Set up weekly check-ins or “PD and coffee” sessions.
• Join educator Facebook groups or forums to swap tips and encouragement.

6. Give Yourself Grace

Some days, you’ll crush your goals. Other days, you’ll binge “Great British Bake Off” instead. That’s okay. Progress isn’t linear, try again tomorrow.

Self-paced learning gives you the flexibility you need, and with a few intentional strategies, you can stay motivated, finish strong, and feel proud of your growth.So go ahead, finish that episode. Then come back and finish that module. You’ve got this.