How are you guys doing? ^_^
Today, I just want to share a little on handling exam stress! I know exams are coming up and you may be experiencing some headaches, a little stomach discomfort on and off, insomnia etc. Exam anxiety is about having excessive worry about upcoming exams, combating with the fear of being evaluated, experiencing fear about the exam consequences. Exam stress and anxiety can be caused by your daily activity! If you are having inadequate rest, not having proper nutrition, not scheduling available time, these could be the factors that are contributing to your anxiety and fear.
Believe in yourself! and let's just share 5 ways that you can do today on coping your exam stress!
1. Good sleep = good exam
Sleep is extremely important prior to your exam. It allows your brain to take enough rest so that it can perform better and allows you to be more focus during the real battle in the exam hall. Insomnia can be caused by stress and anxiety of exam. If you are experiencing insomnia, try to drink warm water or milk prior to sleep, plays soft background music, switch off all lights in your bedroom before you go to bed. Sleeps comfy on your bed and imagine that you are relaxing your body step by step from head, shoulder, chest, and then leg and lastly to your feet. Focus on your breathing. If sleep struggles continue, talk them over with your doctor.
2. Exercise and physical activity
Sitting all day long on your desk with all your books and notes might burn you out even faster. Walk or cycle 15 minutes around your house will help to improve your concentration. You can also play sport such as swimming, football or dancing at least twice a week. Exercise can help boost energy levels, clear the mind and relieve stress. This works amazingly!
3. Eating healthy
Always take balanced diet especially during exam period because you wouldn't want to fall sick during this critical period, PLUS it will make you feel well during exam periods. Try not to skip your breakfast as it might affect your concentration when you are doing revision or during exam. Also, avoid high-fat or high-sugar content food which may cause you to be irritable and moody.
4. Understand your concentration span
Make sure you take breaks in between your revision period. Choose a study place with minimum distractions. If you find it difficult to concentrate with your bed beside you, go to other places such as library or university study corner. Remember, 'Don't try to be perfect'! Keep things in balance. Aim to do your best but do bear in mind that we can't be perfect all of the time. For low achievers, concentrate on master the basic first.
5. Plan ahead
Try to plan your study plan and revision time by drawing up a timetable. This is SO SO important! Prioritize the workload and give your best concentration time to the toughest subject. Take steps to overcome problems. Then also include time for you to repeat your learnt work so the recall in exam is easy. Work not repeated or revised is easily forgotten. Remember to do past year papers if it is available from your library! Practice makes perfect and you wouldn't want to ignore that.
Lastly, plan a small treat for yourself when exams are over! This will help to prepare yourself better for the next time when you are sitting for an exam again! Remember, don't keep things bottled up. If you feel like you are not able to cope with the anxiety or stress, talk to someone you trust and who will be supportive for you. This is a great way to alleviate stress and worry.
Good luck guys! All the best for your exam ^_^
That feeling you get after finishing your last exam... ...
