SAT Prep and Motivation for Your Son

I wrote Motivate Your Son in 2012.  The principles are timeless but I certainly did not anticipate the effect of Covid and how much social media would devastate the psychology of teen boys (and girls, but that will be a different post).  This is a problem that could have lasting effects well beyond the early post-Pandemic years.

In our SAT class, I teach my motivational philosophies as part of the class. I suppose it is the distinguishing feature of the class as those who leave get test prep training plus motivational shifting.

In one of my discussions on why training for the SAT served the student’s interest, I focus on the freedom of shaping one’s future. I present the college search as a myriad of options. Much like a shopping trip, students will dislike, like, and, with hope, love some options. They will want whatever those options are and the SAT or ACT will be one of the ways that will help ensure that they get what they want.

Parents have repeatedly called to note that after SAT class, their son seemed motivated.   They wonder what type of sorcery I engaged in?!

I respond: “I’m not his parent!” That’s at least part of the truth. The other truth is that in doing this work for nearly 20 years, I understand how to shift young adults to care for their own sake.  That makes all the difference.

I also will add that each geographic location has a different motivational feel.  In working with students in the Shoreline, CT area, I have quite a distinct sense as to the culture of the towns in the Guilford-East Lyme access.    The boys here are shaped a bit by the beach culture.  There is an easy going vibe that permeates our towns.  That’s a good thing.  But as many parents have said: “my boy will have a rude awakening when he gets to the real world.”

I hope our SAT class will be one piece of the motivational puzzle that shifts your son.

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