Central vision loss–a condition that impairs the ability to see objects directly in front of the eyes–can have profound academic and social impacts on K-12 students. Because this type of vision loss affects tasks that require detailed focus, such as reading, writing, and recognizing faces, students with central vision impairment often face unique challenges that can affect their overall school experience.
In the classroom, students with central vision loss may struggle with reading printed text on paper or on the board, despite having otherwise healthy peripheral vision. Standard classroom materials are often inaccessible without accommodations such as large print, magnification devices, or digital tools with text-to-speech capabilities. These students might take longer to complete assignments or may miss visual cues from teachers, making it difficult to follow along with lessons. Without appropriate support, such as assistive technology, students may fall behind academically, which can affect their confidence and motivation to participate.
As a result, they may be perceived as aloof or unfriendly, leading to social isolation or misunderstanding. Group activities, games, and unstructured time like lunch or recess can become sources of anxiety if students feel excluded or unsafe. Moreover, children with vision loss may become overly dependent on peers or adults, which can further affect their social development and sense of independence.
While this may seem daunting, there are assistive technologies to help students navigate central vision loss and have fulfilling academic and social experiences.
One such technology, eSight Go from Gentex Corporation’s eSight, uses an advanced high-speed, high-definition camera to capture continuous video footage of what a user is looking at. Algorithms optimize and enhance the footage and share it on two HD OLED screens, providing sharp, crystal-clear viewing. The user’s brain then synthesizes the images to fill any gaps in their vision, helping them to see more clearly, in real time.
“The ability to have central perception brought back into your set of tools for education is critically important,” said Roland Mattern, eSight’s director of sales and marketing. “Ease of reading, ease of seeing the board, using tablets or computers–all of these things [lead to] the ability to complete an academic task with greater ease.”
One key feature, Freeze Frame, lets the user capture a temporary photograph with the device’s camera, such as an image on an interactive whiteboard, a textbook page, or a graphic. The student can magnify the image, scan and study it, and take what they need from it.
“This eases the ability to absorb information and move on, at a regular pace, with the rest of the class,” Mattern noted.
Socially, central vision loss can create additional barriers. A major part of social interaction at school involves recognizing faces, interpreting facial expressions, and making eye contact–all tasks that rely heavily on central vision. Students with this impairment might have difficulty identifying peers or teachers unless they are spoken to directly. The glasses can help with these social challenges.
“There’s a huge social aspect to education, as well–seeing expressions on teachers’ and fellow students’ faces is a major part of communication,” Mattern said.
What’s more, the glasses also help students maintain social connections inside and outside of the classroom.
“Think of how much peer-to-peer communication is digital now, and if you have central vision loss, you can’t see your phone or screen,” Mattern said. “The educational part is not just academic–it’s about the student experience that you want to enhance and optimize.”
Educators, parents, and school staff play a crucial role in fostering inclusive environments–by educating classmates about visual impairments, encouraging empathy, and ensuring that students with central vision loss are supported both academically and socially. With the right accommodations and social-emotional support, these students can thrive in school and build strong connections with their peers.
“If we can make daily living, hobbies, and education easier and facilitate participation, that’s a win for everybody,” Mattern said.
Laura Ascione is the Editorial Director at eSchool Media. She is a graduate of the University of Maryland’s prestigious Philip Merrill College of Journalism.
BALTIMORE — Students who experience “learned helplessness” — the belief that even with effort, they will not progress — can resist help, be quick to surrender academically and exhibit passive behaviors, said speakers at the Council for Exceptional Children’s annual convention on Thursday.
To educators and families, these students — whether with or without disabilities — may seem lazy, defiant and resigned to failure, speakers including special education teachers from Alabama told a conference session.
However, students’ lack of self-confidence and sense of powerlessness can actually stem from early childhood traumas and from past negative school experiences. But all is not lost, the speakers said: Learned helplessness can be unlearned through academic interventions and by celebrating successes — even small accomplishments.
“When we get these babies and they come to us at 3, 4, preschool age, we have got to start pumping them up to think that they can conquer the world,” said Michelle Griffin, a learning specialist at Tarrant City Schools in Tarrant, Alabama.
Here are the speakers’ recommendations for increasing students’ resilience and control over their learning:
Encourage a growth mindset
For students with learned helplessness, success can feel out of reach, leading them to believe that no matter how hard they try, they’ll miss the mark, said Danielle Edison, a special education teacher in Tuscaloosa City Schools in Alabama.
Over time, this pattern can contribute to a significant learning gap and lower academic achievement. “By recognizing these signs early and implementing strategies to counteract them, we can help students regain confidence in their ability to take ownership of their learning,” Edison said.
Teaching students to have a growth mindset — a belief that one’s abilities can improve through strategies and dedication — can help combat learned helplessness, the speakers said.
To help students recognize their potential to improve, educators can encourage them to ask for help when needed. Teachers should also avoid doing the work for the students, setting unrealistic goals, or preventing them from making mistakes, the speakers said.
“We can encourage a growth mindset by helping students use setbacks as learning opportunities rather than insurmountable barriers,” said Lena Cantrell, a 10-year Alabama educator who is pursuing an education specialist degree in special education at the University of Alabama. “Students become more willing to persevere when they see that failure is a step, not a stop.”
Have a supportive learning environment
Equity-focused interventions are another important tool. According to Cantrell, these can help students feel valued and capable of success.
“Cultivating a supportive environment plays a pivotal role,” Cantrell added. “When students know they are in a safe, understanding and encouraging space, they’re more likely to engage actively and take risks in their work.”
Giving students autonomy in their learning and encouraging them to advocate for themselves can strengthen their problem-solving skills and confidence, Cantrell said.
This doesn’t mean teachers are on the sidelines, said Amy Yarbrough, a special education teacher in Alabama’s Jefferson County Schools. Teachers can support students’ sense of control in their learning through physical and verbal prompts or by modeling a desired task.
For example, by showing students how to close a plastic sandwich bag and then encouraging the student to do it on their own, a student can become more independent in that activity, Yarbrough said.
Celebrate wins
To help students overcome negative thoughts about their potential, teachers need to show positivity and encourage their students to be realistically optimistic. That means celebrating even the small steps toward success.
Having positive affirmations can increase students’ motivation and resilience, the speakers said.
“Help them experience success over and over again so that they’ll want to experience it more,” Griffin said.
You’ve got this idea in your head that learning is just for the young. That somehow, because you’ve crossed an invisible threshold of time, your ability to grow has diminished.
But that’s not true. The truth?
Learning has no expiration date. Growth is unlimited—if you choose it.
If you’re over 30 and thinking about going back to school, learning a new skill, or changing careers, you might have some limiting beliefs that are holding you back.
These beliefs aren’t facts.
They’re stories you’ve been telling yourself for years—stories that keep you stuck, small, and afraid to take action. But here’s the good news: you can rewire your mind, break free from these false narratives, and set powerful goals that put you on the path to success.
Let’s shatter these mental barriers and replace them with unstoppable momentum.
Limiting Beliefs and SMART Goals for Students Over 30
30. “I’m too old to learn.”
The problem isn’t your age—it’s your mindset.
If you believe learning is only for the young, it’s because society has conditioned you to think that way. Maybe you were told that school was for kids, or that adults can’t absorb information as quickly. The effect? You hesitate to sign up for that course, procrastinate on picking up that book, and let your comfort zone shrink.
But here’s the truth: your brain is capable of growth at any age. Neuroplasticity—the brain’s ability to adapt and form new connections—doesn’t shut off at 30, 40, or even 70. The solution? Shift your identity from someone who “missed their chance” to someone who is a lifelong learner.
SMART Goals to Overcome This Belief
Specific: Enroll in one online or in-person course within the next month.
Measurable: Complete at least one lesson or chapter per week.
Achievable: Choose a subject you’re genuinely interested in to stay motivated.
Relevant: Align your learning with a skill that benefits your career or personal growth.
Time-bound: Finish the course within three months and apply what you learn immediately.
29. “I’ll never be as good as younger students.”
This belief stems from comparison, and comparison is the thief of progress.
If you’re constantly measuring yourself against younger students who might grasp concepts faster or have more energy, you’re setting yourself up for frustration.
The effect? You feel discouraged before you even begin, convinced that you’ll always be behind. But here’s what you need to understand: success isn’t a race, and mastery isn’t about age—it’s about consistency.
The solution? Stop competing with others and start competing with yourself. Focus on progress, not perfection.
SMART Goals to Overcome This Belief
Specific: Track your personal improvement by journaling your learning progress weekly.
Measurable: Set a goal to improve by at least 10% in a specific area (e.g., test scores, typing speed, fluency in a language) within three months.
Achievable: Break down skills into manageable chunks and celebrate small wins.
Relevant: Focus on skills that directly enhance your personal or professional life.
Time-bound: Commit to reviewing your progress every month and adjusting your approach as needed.
28. “It’s too late to start over.”
This belief is rooted in fear—fear that you’ve invested too much time in one path to pivot, fear that others will judge you, fear that you won’t succeed.
The effect? You stay stuck in a situation that no longer fulfills you, convincing yourself that it’s “too late” while years keep passing by. But here’s the truth: every successful person you admire took a leap at some point.
The solution? Reframe starting over as an opportunity, not a setback. Instead of focusing on what you’re leaving behind, focus on what you’re gaining—new skills, new possibilities, and a future you’re excited about.
SMART Goals to Overcome This Belief
Specific: Research at least three career paths, degrees, or certifications that align with your interests within the next two weeks.
Measurable: Have informational interviews with at least two professionals in your desired field within the next month.
Achievable: Choose one small step, like enrolling in a beginner-level course or attending an industry event, within six weeks.
Relevant: Ensure the new path aligns with your long-term personal and financial goals.
Time-bound: Set a deadline to make a concrete decision and take action within three months.
27. “I don’t have the time to go back to school.”
The real issue isn’t time—it’s priorities.
You tell yourself you’re too busy, but if you audit your schedule, you’ll see hours lost to social media, TV, or tasks that don’t move you forward. The effect? You put off your education for “someday,” which never comes. But here’s the truth: you don’t need endless free time to succeed—you need better time management.
The solution? Shift from “I don’t have time” to “I will make time.” Learning can fit into your life if you create a plan and stick to it.
SMART Goals to Overcome This Belief
Specific: Identify and eliminate at least one time-wasting habit within the next week.
Measurable: Dedicate a minimum of 30 minutes per day to studying or skill development.
Achievable: Use micro-learning techniques, such as listening to audiobooks during commutes or studying in short, focused bursts.
Relevant: Align study time with your peak productivity hours and daily schedule.
Time-bound: Stick to this routine for the next 90 days, then reassess and adjust.
26. “I won’t be able to keep up with the workload.”
This belief comes from a fear of failure—of being overwhelmed, falling behind, and proving yourself right that you “can’t do it.”
The effect? You hesitate to even start, or if you do, you self-sabotage by procrastinating or avoiding challenges. But here’s the truth: success isn’t about doing everything at once—it’s about mastering the art of prioritization and consistency. The solution? Stop focusing on the entire mountain and start focusing on the next step.
You don’t need to finish everything in one day; you just need to build momentum.
SMART Goals to Overcome This Belief
Specific: Break down your coursework or learning material into weekly, manageable goals.
Measurable: Complete at least one key assignment, chapter, or study session per week.
Achievable: Use productivity techniques like the Pomodoro method (25-minute focus sessions) to avoid burnout.
Relevant: Ensure your study plan aligns with your learning pace and lifestyle.
Time-bound: Maintain a consistent study routine for the next 60 days, then reassess and refine.
25. “I don’t have enough money to go back to school.”
Money is a real challenge, but the bigger problem is the belief that a lack of funds equals a lack of options.
The effect? You rule out education before even exploring financial aid, scholarships, or alternative learning paths. But here’s the truth: there are countless ways to learn and advance your career without massive debt. The solution?
Get strategic. Research funding options, seek out free or low-cost courses, and remember—education is an investment, not an expense.
SMART Goals to Overcome This Belief
Specific: Identify at least five scholarship, grant, or financial aid options within the next month.
Measurable: Apply for at least three funding opportunities within the next 60 days.
Achievable: Explore alternative learning options like MOOCs (Massive Open Online Courses) or employer-sponsored training programs.
Relevant: Focus on education that aligns with your career goals and has a strong return on investment.
Time-bound: Secure a financial plan for your education within the next three months.
24. “I was never good at writing essays, so I’ll struggle now.”
This belief is rooted in past academic experiences—you might have received poor grades, struggled with structuring your thoughts, or been told you weren’t a “good writer.”
The effect? You convince yourself that essay writing is an insurmountable skill, leading to avoidance, procrastination, or self-doubt. But here’s the truth: writing is not an innate talent—it’s a skill that improves with practice and structure.
The solution? Instead of seeing essay writing as a test of intelligence, approach it as a formula you can master step by step.
SMART Goals to Overcome This Belief
Specific: Learn a simple essay structure (introduction, body, conclusion) within the next two weeks.
Measurable: Write one short (300-500 word) practice essay every week for the next two months.
Achievable: Use writing aids like outlines, templates, and AI writing tools for guidance.
Relevant: Focus on topics that align with your coursework or personal interests to stay engaged.
Time-bound: Review and refine your essays over 60 days, tracking improvements in clarity and structure.
23. “I don’t know where to start when writing an essay.”
The blank page can feel paralyzing, making essay writing seem like an impossible task. The effect? You either spend hours staring at an empty document, or worse, rush through your essay at the last minute with little confidence in the final result. But here’s the truth: the hardest part of writing is getting started, and the key to overcoming this is to break the process into small, manageable steps. The solution? Instead of trying to write a perfect essay in one sitting, start with brainstorming, then an outline, then a rough draft.
SMART Goals to Overcome This Belief
Specific: Spend 15 minutes brainstorming ideas before writing any essay.
Measurable: Create an outline before writing at least three essays over the next month.
Achievable: Follow a step-by-step essay writing process (brainstorm, outline, draft, edit).
Relevant: Apply this method to actual assignments or practice essays to build confidence.
Time-bound: Implement this structured writing approach for the next 90 days and track improvements in speed and clarity.
22. “I don’t have a big enough vocabulary to write well.”
Many people believe that great writing requires fancy words and complex sentences, but this is a myth. The effect? You second-guess your word choices, feel insecure about your writing, and sometimes overcompensate by using words you don’t fully understand, making your essays sound unnatural. But here’s the truth: clear, concise writing is more powerful than complex vocabulary. The solution? Focus on learning and using new words naturally rather than forcing them into your writing. Strong essays are built on clarity, not complexity.
SMART Goals to Overcome This Belief
Specific: Learn five new academic words each week and use them in sentences.
Measurable: Incorporate at least three newly learned words into every essay.
Achievable: Use a vocabulary journal or flashcards to reinforce new words.
Relevant: Focus on words commonly used in academic writing rather than obscure terms.
Time-bound: Track vocabulary improvement over three months and assess its impact on your writing.
21. “I don’t know how to structure my essays properly.”
If your essays feel unorganized or lack flow, it’s likely because you were never taught a clear structure. The effect? Your arguments feel scattered, making your writing harder to follow, which can lead to lower grades or frustration with the writing process. But here’s the truth: essay structure follows predictable patterns, and once you master them, writing becomes much easier. The solution? Learn a reliable essay structure, like the five-paragraph model, and practice organizing your thoughts before writing.
SMART Goals to Overcome This Belief
Specific: Learn and apply the basic essay structure (introduction, body paragraphs, conclusion) to every essay.
Measurable: Write at least three structured practice essays within the next month.
Achievable: Use templates or outlines to ensure logical organization.
Relevant: Apply structured writing techniques to assignments that impact your academic progress.
Time-bound: Assess improvements in essay clarity and coherence after 60 days of structured writing.
20. “I’ve never been good at studying, so I won’t do well now.”
This belief comes from past experiences—maybe you struggled in school, crammed at the last minute, or never developed effective study habits. The effect? You assume that no matter how hard you try, you won’t retain information or perform well on exams, leading to self-sabotage or procrastination. But here’s the truth: studying is a skill, and like any skill, it can be learned and improved. The solution? Shift your focus from effort to strategy—by using proven study techniques, you can dramatically improve your retention and performance.
SMART Goals to Overcome This Belief
Specific: Experiment with at least three different study techniques (active recall, the Feynman technique, or spaced repetition) over the next month.
Measurable: Track which method helps you retain information best by testing yourself after each session.
Achievable: Start with short, focused study sessions (30-45 minutes) to avoid burnout.
Relevant: Apply these techniques to real coursework or exam preparation.
Time-bound: Evaluate study effectiveness after 30 days and refine your approach.
19. “I get distracted too easily to focus on studying.”
With phones, social media, and life responsibilities, it’s easy to feel like focus is impossible. The effect? You sit down to study but end up scrolling your phone or doing something else entirely, leading to frustration and wasted time. But here’s the truth: focus isn’t about willpower—it’s about creating the right environment and using strategies that help you stay on track. The solution? Set up distraction-free study sessions, use time-blocking techniques, and train your brain to concentrate in short bursts.
SMART Goals to Overcome This Belief
Specific: Create a dedicated study space free of distractions within the next week.
Measurable: Use the Pomodoro technique (25 minutes of focused work, 5-minute breaks) for at least three study sessions per week.
Achievable: Install website blockers or put your phone in another room while studying.
Relevant: Focus on eliminating distractions that directly interfere with study efficiency.
Time-bound: Maintain distraction-free study sessions for the next 60 days and assess improvements in focus.
18. “I can’t remember what I study, so there’s no point in trying.”
This belief stems from ineffective study techniques—you might be reading passively, cramming, or relying on rote memorization without truly understanding the material. The effect? You feel frustrated when information doesn’t stick, leading to discouragement and avoidance of studying altogether. But here’s the truth: memory is trainable, and using the right techniques can drastically improve retention. The solution? Move from passive reading to active learning—use recall, summarization, and teaching methods to reinforce what you study.
SMART Goals to Overcome This Belief
Specific: Use active recall by summarizing key concepts from memory after each study session.
Measurable: Test yourself on the material at least twice before each exam or assignment deadline.
Achievable: Implement spaced repetition by reviewing notes on a structured schedule (e.g., after 1 day, 1 week, 1 month).
Relevant: Apply memory techniques to subjects that require strong recall, like exams or presentations.
Time-bound: Track improvements in retention over the next 90 days by comparing test performance.
17. “I don’t know how to take effective notes.”
Many people think note-taking is just about copying information, but without structure or strategy, notes become overwhelming and ineffective. The effect? You spend time writing but struggle to understand or recall the material later, making studying feel pointless. But here’s the truth: good notes should simplify, organize, and highlight key concepts. The solution? Use structured note-taking methods like the Cornell Method, mind mapping, or summarization to make notes clear and useful.
SMART Goals to Overcome This Belief
Specific: Learn and test at least one structured note-taking method over the next two weeks.
Measurable: Review and refine notes after every class or study session.
Achievable: Keep notes concise by summarizing key points instead of writing everything verbatim.
Relevant: Apply structured note-taking to subjects where organization helps most (e.g., complex topics, essay writing).
Time-bound: Track improvements in comprehension and recall over the next 60 days.
16. “I don’t know how to manage my time effectively for studying.”
This belief comes from feeling overwhelmed—you juggle work, family, and responsibilities, so studying often gets pushed aside. The effect? You either cram at the last minute or avoid studying altogether, leading to stress and poor retention. But here’s the truth: time isn’t the problem—how you structure it is. The solution? Create a study schedule that works with your lifestyle, using time-blocking and prioritization to ensure steady progress.
SMART Goals to Overcome This Belief
Specific: Develop a weekly study schedule that includes dedicated time slots for learning.
Measurable: Study for at least five hours per week, broken into manageable sessions.
Achievable: Use a planner or digital calendar to track and adjust study sessions as needed.
Relevant: Align study time with peak focus hours (e.g., early morning or late evening).
Time-bound: Maintain this routine for 30 days, then evaluate and refine based on effectiveness.
15. “I always procrastinate when it comes to studying.”
Procrastination isn’t laziness—it’s often a response to overwhelm, perfectionism, or fear of failure. The effect? You delay studying until the last minute, leading to rushed work, high stress, and lower performance. But here’s the truth: breaking procrastination requires momentum, not motivation. The solution? Start with small, easy tasks to build consistency and use accountability techniques to stay on track.
SMART Goals to Overcome This Belief
Specific: Use the “two-minute rule” to start study sessions with a small, manageable task.
Measurable: Begin at least three study sessions per week with a five-minute warm-up (e.g., reviewing notes).
Achievable: Set mini-deadlines for assignments to avoid last-minute cramming.
Relevant: Apply anti-procrastination techniques to high-priority subjects first.
Time-bound: Stick to this approach for the next 60 days and track procrastination patterns.
14. “I don’t have the discipline to study consistently.”
This belief comes from the idea that discipline is something you either have or you don’t—but that’s not true. The effect? You rely on motivation, which fades, and when you inevitably skip a study session, you feel like a failure and give up altogether. But here’s the truth: discipline is a muscle that grows with consistent effort. The solution? Start small, build habits, and make studying part of your routine rather than something you force yourself to do.
SMART Goals to Overcome This Belief
Specific: Set a fixed time for studying each day, treating it like an appointment.
Measurable: Stick to a minimum of 20 minutes of study per day for the next 30 days.
Achievable: Start with short sessions and gradually increase study time as the habit builds.
Time-bound: Review and refine study discipline after 60 days to improve long-term commitment.
13. “I always forget what I study after a few days, so why bother?”
Forgetting isn’t a sign of failure—it’s a natural part of how memory works. The effect? You feel discouraged, assume you’re “bad at learning,” and stop putting in the effort. But here’s the truth: forgetting is part of the learning process, and the key to retention is using spaced repetition and active recall. The solution? Instead of cramming, review information in spaced intervals to reinforce memory.
SMART Goals to Overcome This Belief
Specific: Use spaced repetition by reviewing material 1 day, 1 week, and 1 month after learning it.
Measurable: Create and review summary notes for each subject at least once per week.
Achievable: Use flashcards or self-quizzing methods to reinforce key concepts.
Relevant: Apply memory techniques to high-priority subjects where retention matters most.
Time-bound: Implement these strategies for 90 days and track improvement in recall.
12. “I’m just not a naturally smart person.”
This belief stems from a fixed mindset—the idea that intelligence is something you’re born with, rather than something you develop. The effect? You hesitate to challenge yourself, avoid difficult subjects, and reinforce the belief that effort won’t change anything. But here’s the truth: intelligence grows with learning and practice. The solution? Shift to a growth mindset by embracing challenges and seeing effort as a pathway to improvement.
SMART Goals to Overcome This Belief
Specific: Read one book or article about growth mindset within the next month.
Measurable: Write down one learning success per week to track progress.
Achievable: Reframe failures as learning experiences and reflect on them.
Relevant: Focus on progress rather than perfection in your studies.
Time-bound: Commit to tracking mindset shifts for the next 60 days.
11. “I need to be perfect at studying, or I’ve failed.”
Perfectionism kills progress. The effect? You set unrealistic expectations, fear mistakes, and end up either overworking yourself or avoiding studying altogether. But here’s the truth: progress beats perfection every time. The solution? Aim for consistency, not flawlessness, and learn to embrace mistakes as part of growth.
SMART Goals to Overcome This Belief
Specific: Complete each study session with the goal of learning, not perfection.
Measurable: Set a “good enough” study standard (e.g., 80% comprehension) rather than 100%.
Achievable: Allow yourself to submit assignments even if they aren’t “perfect.”
Relevant: Focus on steady improvement rather than flawless performance.
Time-bound: Track and celebrate small wins for the next 90 days to build confidence.
10. “Going back to school won’t be worth it financially.”
This belief comes from the fear that the time and money spent on education won’t lead to better job opportunities. The effect? You hesitate to invest in yourself, worrying that you’ll end up in the same financial position or worse. But here’s the truth: education, when strategically chosen, increases earning potential and career mobility. The solution? Focus on skills and credentials with strong job market demand, and treat learning as an investment, not an expense.
SMART Goals to Overcome This Belief
Specific: Research at least five career paths that align with your studies and have strong earning potential.
Measurable: Identify at least three industry certifications or skills that increase job prospects.
Achievable: Enroll in a program with a high graduate employment rate.
Relevant: Focus on education that directly leads to a career or financial growth opportunity.
Time-bound: Develop a career advancement plan within the next six months.
9. “I’ll never make as much money as people who started their careers earlier.”
This belief stems from comparison—you see younger professionals moving up in their careers and assume you’re permanently behind. The effect? You feel discouraged before even trying, limiting your ambition and financial potential. But here’s the truth: success isn’t linear, and many late starters build highly successful careers by leveraging their life experience. The solution? Focus on building skills that set you apart, rather than competing with someone else’s timeline.
SMART Goals to Overcome This Belief
Specific: Identify and develop one high-value skill that increases earning potential.
Measurable: Apply for at least three new job opportunities or promotions in the next six months.
Achievable: Leverage work experience and transferable skills when job hunting.
Relevant: Choose career paths where experience and expertise matter more than age.
Time-bound: Increase income through upskilling or new opportunities within one year.
8. “I’ll be stuck paying off student loans forever.”
Student debt is a real concern, but the belief that it will ruin your financial future keeps you from making smart, strategic investments in your education. The effect? You avoid opportunities that could increase your earning potential, staying stuck in a lower-income position. But here’s the truth: debt should be approached strategically, not fearfully. The solution? Seek out scholarships, grants, employer tuition assistance, and repayment strategies that minimize long-term financial burden.
SMART Goals to Overcome This Belief
Specific: Research and apply for at least five scholarships or tuition assistance programs.
Measurable: Create a repayment strategy based on projected earnings within the next three months.
Achievable: Limit loans to only what is necessary and prioritize low-interest options.
Relevant: Ensure educational costs align with realistic earning potential.
Time-bound: Have a concrete financial plan in place before enrolling in a program.
7. “I’m too old to build wealth from a new career.”
This belief is based on the idea that wealth-building requires starting young, but financial success is about strategy, not just time. The effect? You avoid investing in yourself because you assume you won’t see results quickly enough. But here’s the truth: many successful professionals and entrepreneurs built wealth later in life by making smart career shifts and financial decisions. The solution? Focus on high-return skills, career growth, and smart financial planning.
SMART Goals to Overcome This Belief
Specific: Develop a long-term financial plan that includes savings, investments, and career growth.
Measurable: Increase income by at least 10% in the next year through career advancements or side income.
Achievable: Build financial literacy by reading one book or taking a course on wealth-building.
Relevant: Focus on careers or businesses with strong earning potential.
Time-bound: Have a five-year financial growth strategy in place within the next six months.
6. “I won’t be able to balance school, work, and family.”
This belief stems from the fear that adding education to an already full schedule will lead to burnout or failure. The effect? You avoid enrolling in courses or feel overwhelmed before even starting. But here’s the truth: millions of working adults successfully juggle school, work, and personal responsibilities by using time management strategies. The solution? Prioritize, delegate, and set clear boundaries to ensure all areas of life stay manageable.
SMART Goals to Overcome This Belief
Specific: Create a weekly schedule that includes study time, work, and personal commitments.
Measurable: Dedicate at least 5–10 hours per week to coursework without sacrificing essential responsibilities.
Achievable: Use planning tools like digital calendars or task management apps.
Relevant: Ensure study plans align with long-term career and life goals.
Time-bound: Maintain a balanced schedule for 90 days and reassess workload.
5. “I’m afraid I won’t finish what I start.”
This fear often comes from past experiences of quitting or struggling with commitment. The effect? You hesitate to enroll in school or start a new course, assuming you’ll fail before you even begin. But here’s the truth: finishing isn’t about willpower—it’s about setting clear, actionable goals and following through. The solution? Break large goals into small, achievable steps and celebrate progress along the way.
SMART Goals to Overcome This Belief
Specific: Set milestone goals for each phase of your coursework.
Measurable: Complete at least 80% of assignments on time each semester.
Achievable: Use accountability partners or study groups for motivation.
Relevant: Focus on programs that genuinely interest and benefit you.
Time-bound: Review and adjust study habits every 60 days to stay on track.
4. “I’ll feel out of place as an older student.”
This belief comes from the assumption that classrooms and learning spaces are dominated by younger students. The effect? You avoid engaging fully, miss networking opportunities, and feel isolated. But here’s the truth: adult learners are a growing part of education, and your experience is an asset. The solution? Embrace your role as a lifelong learner and seek out communities of like-minded adult students.
SMART Goals to Overcome This Belief
Specific: Connect with at least one other adult learner in your course.
Measurable: Participate in discussions or study groups at least once per week.
Achievable: Reach out to professors or mentors for support.
Relevant: Engage with networking opportunities that align with your career goals.
Time-bound: Build meaningful academic connections within the first 90 days of enrollment.
3. “I don’t have the confidence to succeed in an academic setting.”
Lack of confidence comes from years of self-doubt or past struggles with school. The effect? You hesitate to ask questions, seek help, or challenge yourself academically, reinforcing the cycle of self-doubt. But here’s the truth: confidence isn’t something you have—it’s something you build through action. The solution? Start small, acknowledge progress, and seek support when needed.
SMART Goals to Overcome This Belief
Specific: Set a goal to speak up in class discussions or ask one question per week.
Measurable: Complete at least one challenging assignment outside of your comfort zone.
Achievable: Use positive reinforcement techniques, such as tracking small wins.
Relevant: Focus on growth rather than comparison with others.
Time-bound: Build confidence through academic engagement over the next 60 days.
2. “I don’t know if this will actually change my life.”
This belief comes from doubt—doubt in yourself, in the process, and in the impact education can have. The effect? You hesitate to commit fully, treating learning as an experiment rather than a transformation. But here’s the truth: education opens doors, but only if you walk through them with purpose. The solution? Define clear personal and career outcomes, and actively seek ways to apply what you learn.
SMART Goals to Overcome This Belief
Specific: Identify and write down three ways this education will improve your life.
Measurable: Take one tangible action each month to apply new knowledge (networking, skill-building, job applications).
Achievable: Set a realistic vision for how this education will support your goals.
Relevant: Align studies with a career or personal growth path that excites you.
Time-bound: Track and reflect on changes in opportunities and mindset over one year.
1. “What if I fail?”
Fear of failure is the biggest barrier to success. The effect? You hesitate to try, afraid of embarrassment, wasted time, or proving negative beliefs about yourself true. But here’s the truth: failure isn’t the opposite of success—it’s part of the process. The solution? Redefine failure as learning, take calculated risks, and commit to growth no matter the outcome.
SMART Goals to Overcome This Belief
Specific: Set a goal to take one academic or professional risk in the next three months.
Measurable: Reflect on each challenge and write down what you learned.
Achievable: Normalize mistakes by reframing setbacks as learning experiences.
Relevant: Focus on long-term success rather than short-term struggles.
Time-bound: Commit to continuous learning and self-improvement for one year.
Conclusion
Limiting beliefs are just that—beliefs, not facts. They hold you back from opportunities, growth, and the future you deserve. But the moment you decide to challenge them, everything changes. The question isn’t whether you’re too old, too late, or too behind—it’s whether you’re willing to take action despite those fears. Because success isn’t about age, background, or talent—it’s about the commitment to keep moving forward.
Now, the only thing left to ask yourself is: What’s my first step?
Dr. Chris Drew is the founder of the Helpful Professor. He holds a PhD in education and has published over 20 articles in scholarly journals. He is the former editor of the Journal of Learning Development in Higher Education. [Image Descriptor: Photo of Chris]
