#47 - A Little Mental Trick to Overcome the Stress of School
The first time you're looking at the syllabi & course calendars for the new semester, it's extremely overwhelming. If you're feeling that way right now, YOU ARE HUMAN.
Here's a little trick I used in school to help me cope:
Imagine each syllabus/calendar as a rollercoaster. Stick with me.
From the outside rollercoasters are immense, daunting, and can look down right scary (especially if you're afraid of heights). If you're not a roller coaster fan, there's no way you'd sign up for something like this. The fear and trepidation while waiting to get on the ride can rattle even the most courageous.
For someone who used to have a phobia of rollercoasters, I was always amazed at what happened next. I got on, and once I survived the first hill, the rest was over in seconds. I'd walk off and say, "Wow, that was not NEARLY as bad as I thought it would be. In fact, it was over so fast, I can't believe how scared I was. Let's do another."
So, when you're looking at your mountain of syllabi, assignments, clinical hours, papers and projects this semester, I want you to acknowledge these vital truths:
1. The assignments, clinical hours, papers and projects you're worried about will NOT be as difficult as you think- they just look scary now because it's unfamiliar and you don't have all the details yet.
2. The semester will go faster than you think- just wait. It will be over before you know it.
3. You have the opportunity to choose your perspective. You've purchased your ticket. You're in line and shortly you'll be stepping on the ride. When you're tempted to let your anxiety spin up, I want you to say this to yourself, "This looks scarier than it will be. It will go faster than I think and at the end, I'll be one step closer to becoming a nurse."
One rollercoaster at a time, you'll master the theme park and if you become a fan of rollercoasters, you might just go back for your Bachelor's, Master's and Doctorate:)
If you've already started classes this week, tell me how it's going for you.
Still feeling overwhelmed? join the Nursing School MasterClass! We'd love to support you on your journey with practical study strategies & support.
More info: www.nursingschoolmasterclass.com
