Finals Week...

Finals... Just writing out that word gives me a little bit of anxiety. For as long as I can remember I have always gotten nervous and anxious when it comes to taking tests of any kind, especially finals. But why? It is probably the fact that I care almost too much about my grades, so when a test or exam is even slightly important to my grade or my future I freak out. I feel overwhelmed by the pressure to ace my exam.

It still amazes me that I am so hung up over my grades. Typically students are heavily grade conscious when their parents demand or expect only straight A's from their child. But my parents were never like that. I mean yes, they expect me to do my best and to not slack off. But in no way do they expect me to get straight A's or put that kind of pressure on me. My mom always said, "As long as you are trying and are doing your very best, that is all that matters. If your best is a C, then that is your best". Even though my parents are very understanding when it comes to grades I still manage to get anxious when it comes to exams.

I am clearly no expert in being calm and collected while taking an exam, however I have come across a few things that definitely help me. The first and most important thing is to BREATHE. It seems stupid, I know, especially since we are all breathing all the time. But taking a second or two to just sit and inhale for 4 seconds, hold it for 4 seconds and then slowly exhale for 8 seconds helps calm your body. I tend to do this breathing exercise two or three times as my teacher/professor begins passing out the exam and while I first look through the exam. Secondly, HAVE HOPE. Constantly tell yourself that you are going to do well. You are going to do amazing because you are amazing. Imagine the little engine in The Little Engine That Could, "I think I can, I think I can, I think I can, I know I can, I know I can, I can!" I have to tell myself that I can do it over and over again, just like the little engine had to. Throughout my entire exam I continuously remind myself that I can do it. The last thing that I do to help with my test anxiety is to remind myself that THIS EXAM DOES NOT DEFINE ME. I used to tell myself over and over that I am going to fail this test and, as a result, every aspect of my life will turn to shambles.. I know, kind of melodramatic. But I honestly was afraid that if I didn't get an A my life was going to be ruined. But I am not stupid. I am not dumb. I am not going to have a horrible life just because I may not do well on this test.

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Well, speaking of finals, I should probably go continue to study. To those who are taking or preparing to take their finals, good luck and remember to breathe, have hope, and most importantly, remember that this exam does not define you.

Oh and may the curve be ever in your favor.  :)

Love Always,

xo

Noelle