Stress, anxiety and nervousness happen to the best of us during exams. No matter how hard you’ve been studying for that one tough subject, stress always kicks in at the last moment when you’re about to walk into your exam hall and your mind goes all blank.
As you’re seated down and are about to write your exam, you can’t help but notice those sweaty palms, pit in your stomach and the feeling of dizziness.
If you have ticked off all these symptoms, your grades and test scores may not reflect your true abilities.
Read on for some tips to help you get through your exams by putting an end to those peaky butterflies and banishing those stomping elephants from the pit of your stomach.
1. Just Breathe
Not only during exams but every time you find yourself in a difficult situation, take a deep breath as it is significantly effective and helps you feel calm while trying to manage stress and anxiety. While studying if you notice your stress levels rising then inhale to the count of four and exhale to the count of six. This really helps!
2. Eat & Sleep Well
Do you know what increases your symptoms of anxiety? Pulling all-nighters, surviving on a poor diet and lesser intake of water. For your body to perform its best, make sure to sleep for proper 6-8 hours, eat nutritious food and drink lots of water.
3. Set Realistic Goals
Whether you have ample time to prepare for your upcoming exams or have less time left, setting realistic goals will help you put things into perspective. Understand your situation and your pace of learning. By doing so, you will be able to maximize your productivity without the risk of draining yourself out.
4. Have Faith In Yourself
As you grow, life will keep putting you through challenges that will seem very difficult to face but don’t forget to look back at how far you’ve made it and how much you’ve accomplished in life. If you’re confident that you’ve prepared well, then you need not worry about the exam. Always live by the motto that whatever you get, you will always be proud of yourself and value your achievements.
5. Think Positive
It is often the pressure we place on ourselves to get a certain grade that will contribute to the stress and anxiety we feel before the exam. The more negative thoughts you let in, the more self-doubt you will have. Remain confident in your abilities and remember that you’ve tackled with exams before so there isn’t any reason you won’t get through this one.
6. Manage Time
Realizing that the time is almost up can get your heart racing and can make it even more difficult for you to do anything useful in those final minutes. Stay on pace by scoping out the whole test before getting started. Mentally allocate how much time you’ll spend on each section. It is even better if there is enough time left to recheck!
Trust and have faith in yourself. Keep telling yourself that you have been through this before and you shall get through it again. After all, its all about self-confidence and trusting your ability to achieve more in life.
