Exams are part and parcel of academic life, often going hand in hand with stress, anxiety, and pressure. While it is natural to want to perform better, additional pressure from home only serves to make things even more stressful. Thoughts of performance, comparisons with other performing relatives, and fear of disappointing others serve to add unnecessary stress. But effectively coping with exam stress and being mentally healthy can be the difference between passing and failing.
Here is how to handle both exam pressure and family expectations with ease.
1. Acknowledge the Pressure
Family expectations can weigh like a heavyweight belt on your shoulders. They mean well, but their stress doesn't have to be yours. Take their worry as them showing love (even if it's more of an interrogation). If all else fails, imagine them as wildly enthusiastic sports commentators providing a sensational play-by-play of your revision sessions. All of a sudden, it's more hilarious than stressful.
2. Set Realistic Goals
Trying to learn it all in one night is a disaster waiting to happen. Rather, split your study periods into reasonable sections. Visualise it as marathon training for the mind—little, consistent steps rather than one all-out run at 2 AM on instant noodles.
3. Use ‘The Art of Selective Hearing’
If your relatives keep comparing you to your “brilliant” cousin, develop a skill called ‘selective hearing.’ Smile, nod, and mentally replace their words with something more encouraging—like “You’re doing great, and we believe in you.” Works like a charm.
4. Self-Care is NOT a Luxury; It’s a Necessity
Take breaks. Go for a walk outside. Dance around your room like no one is watching (or if they are, own it). Tests matter, but so does your mental health. Burnout isn't going to get you an A on anything.
5. Have a Game Plan for Post-Exam Anxiety
Once the exams are over, give yourself permission to breathe. Even if your family bombards you with “How did it go?” questions, remember that you’ve done your best—and that’s all anyone can ask.
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