Balancing work and studies as a student can be tough, and it comes with its own set of challenges. One of the most significant hurdles to overcome is self-doubt. This came up alot for me as a student, and a mother who also worked full time! Am I good enough? Do I have time? This blog explores practical strategies for navigating self-doubt while juggling the responsibilities of work and exams.
Acknowledge Your Feelings: The first step in overcoming self-doubt is acknowledging its presence. It's normal to feel overwhelmed when faced with the demands of work and exams simultaneously. Take a moment to recognise your emotions and understand that it is okay to feel uncertain at times.
Set Realistic Expectations: Setting realistic expectations for yourself is crucial. Understand that you may not excel in every aspect of your life simultaneously. Prioritise your tasks and focus on what is most important at any given moment. Remember that it is okay to ask for help when needed, whether it's from colleagues, professors, or friends.
Practice Self-Compassion: Be kind to yourself. Instead of dwelling on your shortcomings, practice self-compassion. Remind yourself of your strengths and accomplishments. Treat yourself with the same kindness and understanding that you would offer to a friend facing similar challenges.
Break Tasks into Manageable Steps: When faced with a daunting workload, break it down into smaller, more manageable tasks. This approach makes it easier to tackle one step at a time, reducing feelings of overwhelm and self-doubt. Celebrate your progress along the way, no matter how small.
Seek Support: Do not hesitate to lean on your support system during challenging times. Whether it's a mentor, coworker, family member, or friend, having someone to talk to can provide valuable perspective and encouragement. You are not alone in this journey, and reaching out for support is a sign of strength, not weakness.
Practice Stress Management tools: Managing stress is essential when navigating the demands of work and studies. Find tools that work for you, whether it's exercise, meditation, journaling, or spending time in nature. Taking care of your mental and physical well-being is crucial for maintaining resilience in the face of self-doubt.
Celebrate Your Achievements: Take time to celebrate your achievements, no matter how small they may seem. Completing a project at work or acing an exam are milestones worth recognising. Acknowledge your hard work and dedication, and use these accomplishments as fuel to propel you forward.
Navigating self-doubt as a student who works full-time alongside exams is undoubtedly challenging, but it's not impossible. By acknowledging your feelings, setting realistic expectations, practicing self-compassion, breaking tasks into manageable steps, seeking support, practicing stress management techniques, and celebrating your achievements, you can overcome self-doubt and thrive in both your academic and professional pursuits. Remember, you are capable of achieving great things, even in the face of adversity.
Always reach out to me.... my kettle is always on!
Merinda xx
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