Sometimes, we worry a lot about the questions that will be asked in exams and forget the importance of the questions you need to ask yourself first. If you are already preparing for a big exam, you need to ask yourself if you are ready for it. You need to ask yourself if you believe in what you are doing. These questions will help you find a guiding light to your aim.
Questions You Need to Ask Yourself
1. Do you believe in excellence?
Do you plan on studying just one chapter this week? That’s okay. But come what may, make sure you study that one chapter so well that even if you are asked to solve a question from that chapter after six months, you should be able to solve it in a jiffy!
2. Do you believe in perseverance?
Any examination is a test of perseverance! You really need to work hard and put in your best. At times, you might feel defeated and might want to surrender. But you should keep trying till the time you reach your destination!
3. Have you given up?
Don’t let one failure stop you! Don’t let your inability to solve problems stop you! Keep pushing yourself to go that extra mile and see the difference for yourself. Always remember, failure is the stepping stone to success. The real failure is when you stop trying.
4. Do you study smart?
Avoid cramming chapters while studying. Firstly, understand the concept well and then revise it repeatedly so that it stays embedded in your mind. Learning without understanding is futile and leads to unnecessary fear at the last minute.
5. Do you believe in this mantra from 3 Idiots?
A positive mindset is crucial while preparing for exams. It will not only spike your confidence level but will also help you develop faith in your hard work. Just believe in yourself and have a positive outlook towards your exam and nothing can go wrong. Remember, All Izz Well! And if it isn’t, you can make it well. Remember Mantra 3: Never give up 🙂
6. Are you dedicated?
Dedication and spirit are two sides of the same coin. Both work extremely well if they are in coordination. When you clear the entrance test, you’d say it was your will power which made it happen. Keep your head cool. Don’t let negative thoughts affect your study plan and ruin your confidence. Believe in yourself and say it loudly “I will make it.” Another important thing is to visualize that you have cracked the examination. Close your eyes and try to picture how happy you are and how proud your parents are. Buddhist philosophers believe that it helps in achieving success.
7. Do you analyse your failures?
If you find that the mock question papers are too difficult to handle, do not just give away. Put all your acumen and energy to find out where you went wrong. Focus on identifying where you are weak, and work towards improving yourself at that.
8. Do you take some time off?
While you are preparing for your exam, it’s important that you take out some ‘me time’ to regain the energy spent in studying. Dabble in some fun activities during this time, depending on your personal preferences. Whether you love playing video games, listening to music, going out for a walk with your friends or reading, make sure that you carve out a schedule that allows time for some indulgence and rejuvenation.
9. Do you think big?
To achieve the goal you want in life, you need motivation. The bigger your dream, the bigger is your success. Motivation creates commitment, which in turn creates zeal just to make it happen.
10. Do you exercise?
Remember, all work, and no play makes Jack a dull boy. Start your day with a little exercise that will give you an energy boost. Follow it up with a nutritious breakfast that will keep you in a good mood and assist you in studying attentively. Exercise also releases feel-good hormones in your body called Endorphins, which keep stress at bay and help you stay focused for longer.
Finally, once your exams are done, get ready to face the dreaded question:
Sharmaji ke bete ki rank kya hai? 😉
Always remember that an entrance exam is not an end in itself. It is just a means to the end. It does not prove that you are better or vice versa. If you have done well, you will be expected to constantly prove yourself from now on, and if you haven’t, you will get many more chances to do so.
All the best!
