Beat stress by putting your best foot forward

My neighbourhood has lately been a site of exam-related stress. Young people awaiting their rides to school and college every morning with their clammy palms grasping books and their faces glazed over with anxiety. It is widely known that stress is counterproductive and reduces our mental and physical readiness to perform optimally. And yet, the nerves are so hard to keep at bay. I remember a phase from my school years when I put myself under so much pressure during the final exams that I once fainted one morning while getting my pencil box ready for that day’s exam.

It didn’t take much time for me to realise the truth that the real tests in life are unscheduled and often defy the structured three-hour format in an examination hall. Nor can any amount of last-minute cramming get you over the line on these tests.

A great way not to feel overwhelmed by these situations is to give your best each day. When we resolve to always be at our best, soon we begin to look forward to experiences that push us to live up to our potential and help us grow.

Our fears are conquered in the process and hurdles that once seemed insurmountable pale into insignificance. It is one thing to thrive under pressure but an entirely more gratifying experience to transform the ordinary of everyday into something special, by making excelling a habit.

So those facing “finals-phobia” right now, close your eyes, take a deep breath and imagine yourself 10 years down the line. And then tell your younger self this: “Today won’t be your biggest challenge ever; so don’t worry and allow it to show you just what you are capable of.”