Continuing your education often comes with numerous challenges. Combine this with the pressure to succeed, and school can easily become overwhelming. However, higher education is also a valuable learning experience that can teach students how to overcome their biggest concerns and anxieties. Whether it is fear of change or academic failure — or a combination of the two — it is possible to rise above these obstacles. Here are several tips to conquer your doubts when working toward your first or next degree.
1. Figure Out Why You’re Nervous and Address Each Fear
Though it may feel like an all-encompassing, overwhelming wave of anxiety or panic, there may be some particular aspects of college life about which you are worried. For example, perhaps you’ve always been top of the class and you’re nervous about taking courses that could damage that grade point average. Reflect on your feelings, identify specific fears, and try to refute them with logic and reasoning.
2. Accept Failure as a Necessary Part of Life
Academic failure is a universal fear among students, especially when they face a major challenge or roadblock. If you attend classes and complete the assigned homework, failure shouldn’t be a huge concern. However, missteps are a natural part of life and often necessary for personal growth, especially on the path to success.
Once you accept that failure is common and does not mean the end of the world, you may have an easier time facing it. Remember that a mistake is not something to fear. Rather, you can learn and grow from these errors, and ultimately, become a better version of yourself.
3. Adopt a Mindset of Resilience
The ability to overcome fear and keep working toward a goal is not something that comes naturally to everyone. However, if you adopt a mindset of resilience, it could help you be more positive and optimistic in the face of difficult situations. For instance, believing that you can learn new techniques and coping mechanisms to find a solution might help you vanquish the fear of academic failure.
4. Set Smaller Goals and Work Toward a Larger One in your academic career
One way to alleviate certain anxieties is to set smaller goals that are realistic and attainable. This might mean studying more to get a higher grade on your next exam or to understand a difficult concept.
By achieving minor goals that support a larger academic objective — such as receiving a degree — you may feel more confident throughout the academic journey. Plus, these little victories can make you feel good about your progress, providing motivation to continue.
5. Embrace the Work Hard, Play Hard Mentality
College is not just about going to classes, completing assignments and getting good grades. It also involves new life experiences, such as growing from a teenager to an adult or transitioning from one career path to another. Finding the right balance is key. Work hard to achieve academic success, then reward yourself with that same amount of effort.
Long stretches of intense work without any reprieve may cause burnout. However, if you play too much and neglect your responsibilities, you risk poor performance, not to mention the wasted time and money. Find a balance that can help you grow while still furthering the academic goals and success you seek.
6. Use Your Nerves for Good
If you are nervous, that anxiety can manifest in unhealthy ways — burning out, overindulging, not eating enough, etc. If left unchecked, that stress could impact your academic performance. Instead of letting yourself become a nervous wreck, put your energy into a constructive activity, such as applying for internships.
There are other useful ways to channel your nerves, too. Take up a new hobby to help get your mind off worrisome thoughts. Exercise is another great activity that can combat anxiety. Just remember: It’s all about balance.
7. Talk to People with Similar Experiences
If you are concerned about a particular situation, the best way to feel better is to speak to someone who has been through a similar circumstance. It’s likely that your classmates or friends are experiencing the same feelings, and it might be beneficial to vent to each other.
Alternatively, think about other role models in your life. Consider reaching out to siblings, coworkers, or relatives about their experiences. It can be helpful to discuss your circumstances objectively to gain a fresh perspective.
8. Get Involved on Campus
A big issue for many students, especially freshmen or non-traditional scholars, is the fear of loneliness or alienation. However, higher education is a great opportunity to meet people from various backgrounds and different parts of the country. You could make friends through clubs, sports, student organizations and your degree program. By socializing and getting involved around campus, you may even learn new skills and feel more connected to your school.
9. Ask for Help When You Need It
If you are struggling with a difficult concept or assignment, make use of the resources available on campus. Take advantage of the writing and tutoring centers, as well as your professors during office hours. The counseling center is another great resource to utilize if you encounter internal struggles along the way.
10. Practice Self-Compassion
Keep in mind that every human being makes mistakes. If you make a misstep or find yourself on the wrong path, know that it is always possible to redirect and start fresh. Beating yourself up won’t help you overcome fear. Remember that you are trying your best and that is enough.
11. Get Prepared
Getting organized can encourage even the most petrified students to overcome some of their fears. It may also help to reduce stress and avoid burnout. Consider using a planner or wall calendar to track daily tasks, upcoming exams, deadlines and appointments. Color coding is also a simple way to keep up with your schedule and responsibilities. Organizational tools can give you the confidence to manage a heavy and demanding workload.
There is no reason to let fears hold you back from an exciting and successful higher education experience. Follow these helpful tips and you’ll be well on your way to earning that degree and starting the next phase of your life.
