Oh no! There is a test coming up this week. Does that make you shaky, tense or complaining about a stomach ache? You’re not alone! We’ve all been there. This weird feeling has a name and that is “test anxiety.” Let’s try and understand more about this.
Test anxiety is the feeling experienced in a situation when there is some pressure to do well. For example- a person may also feel this before going for an interview or before a solo dance performance. It can interfere in our ability to concentrate and give our best performance. The truth is that this is normal! We all can experience this from time to time. It’s important to remember that we can manage these feelings! Here are 5 ways we can beat test anxiety:
1. Take a look from a different perspective
We know that grades are quite important. No doubt we should always give our best. But, at the same time, do not forget that one test can’t make or break one’s future. Learning is a process and we shouldn’t be too hard on ourselves.
2. Listen to your teacher!
As obvious as this may sound… Your teacher wants the best for you. Start by paying attention in classes and taking down notes. This is where the real learning begins. This will build your confidence and help you be more organised.
3. Practice! Practice! Practice!
Maybe it’s time to use the stress to our advantage and take some practice sessions. No amount of cramming one day before the test can ever be compared to the practice which is done well in advance. Learning is a gradual process and requires constant efforts. So, buckle up, start studying well in time. Your future-self will thank you. I promise.
4. Be kind to yourself
Are you a perfectionist? Do you find yourself being too hard on yourself? If you answered yes to that, it’s time to learn the skill of tolerating one’s mistakes. Even our teachers and coaches have made mistakes when they were young. Next time you get that math problem wrong in a quiz, tell yourself, “I’m going to learn from this and it is okay to make mistakes.”
5. Just breathe…
Lastly, don’t forget to breathe. Take a deep breath and observe your belly going out. Pause for 5 seconds and then breathe out. Imagine the air leaving your lungs and making an exit through your nostrils. Repeat the cycle and see how relaxing it can be. Take one breath at a time and just let go of the stress.
It’s natural to feel anxious before end-of-the-year tests. We can still learn to manage our minds with these strategies so we are able to perform well, even under pressure. Afterall, nothing should cloud our confidence so we can keep shining like the stars that we are!