Dealing with exam nerves
Exam nerves are something most of us have experienced at some point in our lives and they’re not particularly pleasant, but they can be turned round into a positive. A few nerves are not necessarily a bad thing, as the adrenaline will drive you to want to succeed. However, you need to be able to deal with any panicky feelings and intense nerves so that you can concentrate fully on what you’re aiming to achieve. Focusing your mind to avoid any of those frustrating “mind blocks” is key, and can be done with the correct thinking styles.
Preparation is of course one of the most important things you can do when it comes to exam time. Have a plan for every subject and every exam and stick to it. Don’t let distractions get in the way of what you’re doing, and every time you complete something (such as a practise essay) give yourself a little reward. If you’ve completed 3 hours of revision for example, pop out for a coffee with a friend or give yourself a 30 minute “social media” break. This way, you’re not thinking of the whole day as a block of revision; you’re breaking it up into manageable chunks, which is far more preferable.
When it comes to exam day do not worry if you’re feeling nervous; it’s perfectly normal! Do not put so much pressure on yourself that you end up in a state of anxiety. Deep breaths are extremely important to calm nerves; avoid shallow breathing as a lack of oxygen in your lungs will immediately send your body into panic mode. Try a visualisation technique to calm your mind and body: think of a place that makes you feel happy, relaxed and content. Close your eyes and imagine being in that place, all the time taking deep, slow breaths. Imagine what you’d be doing and who you would be with, and how relaxed it makes you feel. Keep visualising this until you feel as though your body has no tension left in it. Calming your mind will calm your body and you will then be able to focus far more successfully on what you’re doing.
There are many techniques you can use to relax and focus, and so long as you’ve done your revision and you know you have done your best then you need to pat yourself on the back every single time you leave the exam room. Keep telling yourself positive affirmations, be prepared (don’t cram in all of your revision at the last minute), take water in to keep you hydrated and make sure you eat and sleep well in between exams.
If you would like any further info about how hypnotherapy and a Positive Thinking Styles course can help with exam nerves then please contact me on 01202 245020 or 07920885015………..In the meantime, good luck!
Email:robert-clarke@live.com
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