Have a plan of action
THE final hurdle for matric pupils is at hand, but the pressure actually mounts from the end of Grade 11, when people question pupils on what careers they intend on pursuing.
Thankfully, compared to back in the day, the career options are vast.
Taking a gap year to find a solid career path is also an option, yet many still inflict pressure on these youngsters.
I recall the daunting night of waiting outside the Independent Media building – surrounded by hundreds of other eager and nervous pupils and their families – to receive my matric results.
With the major countdown almost upon us, both pupils and parents need a strong mindset to get through this time.
Clarity is key:
Matric pupils need a clear perspective of where they are and a clear vision of what they would like to achieve. Just like any goal, having a plan of action is important.
This plan should include time for recreation, exercise, and rest. Balance is, after all, the key to avoid burnout.
For those who have been preparing for the final exam for a while, this last stretch will not seem so tedious.
However, if the preparation is still going on at a slow pace, then additional stress must be managed.
A plan will help keep the stress at bay. Parents must ensure they help pupils maintain a routine, by helping their children draw up a plan. This means there is a commitment from both the pupil and the parent. Be realistic when doing this. Do not be intimidated:
When questioned about career plans, do not be intimidated and feel under undue pressure from those on the outside. Remember, you are not answerable or accountable to anyone but yourself and your parents or guardians. Family and friends also need to be more sensitive to this. Rather ask how you can help the pupil get through the days ahead. Offer support.
Self care is important:
Pupils often neglect themselves during the build-up to the final exam. Self-care means maintaining a balanced diet, getting proper sleep, connecting with family, and participating in recreation (sport or exercise). Aim for a balance. Again, parents need to offer guidance. They need to allow their children the freedom to relax, yet guide them with proper time-management. Do this gently, yet effectively. Positive self talk:
Visualisation of the end goal is essential in achieving it. Positive selftalk is also an important part of the process. What you feed your mind is equally important to what you feed your body. Therefore, matric pupils need to be their own best friends during this period. Parents need to be supportive, and act out of love, especially during this stressful period. Speak positive words of encouragement instead of berating your child.
Do not fall into “the comparison trap”:
It is easy to compare your children to others. Some parents believe this is a motivation tactic. Yet it can cause more harm than good. It is also easy for matric pupils to lose hope if they think they are not as intelligent or smart as their friends. This can be a barrier to achieving one’s true potential. Rather use the same energy to nurture your child’s strengths.
It is not too late: Do not lose hope. Strive and push on. Bear in mind that the end result is what is important. Rather invest your time and energy now, than regretting not doing so later.
Radhe is a neurolinguistic programming practitioner, timeline therapist and life coach. She is also an educator, PR practitioner and motivational speaker and founder of Sankalpa Coach. Follow her on Facebook @sankalpa coaching with krsangi radhe.