Do you suffer from test anxiety? Does the thought of writing a long essay give you a migraine? If you’re anything like me, then this is a common occurrence. Even though these issues can feel like they will last forever, there are things you can do to help. One of my favorite ways to soothe my emotions is by saying affirmations before my assignments. Here are some of mine that have helped me through some especially tough semesters.
- You got this.
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Although this one is simple, it’s very effective at countering those negative thoughts. I like to say this with my eyes closed right before I start looking at the questions.
- This is the last thing you’ll do this semester.
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This one is a favorite of mine because it reminds me that this is the last step before a long-awaited break from classes. I look forward to all the fun things I plan to do and the relaxation that will fall over me the second the test/essay is over.
- It’s just a grade, not life or death.
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Sometimes, it’s hard to think about grades as a minuscule step before our career starts. During grade school, teachers drilled into our heads that getting good grades is the ultimate achievement, especially when it comes to college. This isn’t true in the least. The best achievements come from our career, which starts after college. Remember that and you can tackle the world.
- If you don’t do well, you can make it up with another class.
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Guess how many classes make up our GPAs? This one course is a blip on your transcript but can feel huge during the semester, especially if it’s a difficult one. Just look forward to the relief you’ll feel after it’s over.
- No matter what my grade is, I’m proud of myself for trying my best.
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I tell myself this multiple times during the semester, but it’s especially helpful during finals week. If you try your best, you will succeed in whatever you do, and even if you fail, you can pick yourself back up.
Always remember that you have the power to create your destiny and no class can determine your success. Now go and conquer those assignments!