and as mentioned above, never miss class even if you are unprepared. Also, always get the homework done first. I had a large garden in progress when in grad school, I found it to be excellent therapy when I came to a mental impasse for writing and thinking out/formulating arguments. So have a "go to" place or activity to clear your head whether it's gardening, skiing or whatever that allows you to get by yourself to think and hash out your thoughts on a regular basis. But do make it your full-time job, you can't succeed without fully investing yourself. Make sure you communicate often with your committee members and advisor.
Don't sweat the small stuff, just go forth and do it, even if you accrue some debt along the way, it will be something nobody can take from you and you will find that it will get you further along the road to accomplishment than without it.
I started college as a ninth grade dropout at the age of 35, I came out with a Master's... it was unbelievably painful in so many ways but it was worth it even if I am poor now and will likely never pay off the loans, my mind is clear and I have more options available in the workforce. I have no regrets about going the extra couple years.
= new reply since forum marked as read