Why do I feel like I am not doing enough?

I feel like I should be studying lots of hours to pass my exam, which I need to retake. Today I only dedicated about 10 minutes. I don’t find the time to do it when I desire which is disappointing. I desire to do it early in the morning but I tend to snooze the early alarm and forget my goal, to wake up early and study. I wish I pushed myself more.
Asked by Julian
Answered
06/04/2022

Greetings Julian, I would be happy to answer that question for you. I am sorry that you are going through some challenges with having to retake your exam. You more than likely are going through what most people would be going through after not passing an exam. It is normal for someone to experience a bit of anxiety and avoidance due to feeling responsible for not doing as well as expected the first time around. 

What may be helpful to you is engaging in some positive affirmations before studying. Looking at yourself in the mirror and telling yourself that you can do this and that you will try your very best would be a good start. A studying schedule may also be helpful. When it comes to studying, focus on quality, not quantity of time. Make it a part of your routine to engage in an activity such as walking, working out, meditating, mindfulness exercises, etc before getting ready to study. Taking your studies to a different setting other than your room or residence could also be helpful. A library or any other setting without the distractions you are familiar with may make all the difference.

I also believe that knowing that test anxiety is very common may counter some of the negative automatic thoughts you have about the entire process, which you may have internalized. For each negative thought that comes to your mind, I encourage you to challenge that thought with at least two positive thoughts based on reality. Writing the thoughts out will be beneficial. Also remember to write down the goals of what you plan to achieve when you pass the exam.

Last, but not least, having a study buddy or asking someone to hold you accountable to your study time goals may also come in handy. Ask someone you can trust to be that person for you. You may find yourself feeling more motivated to follow your study schedule and when you catch yourself procrastinating, that person could become the voice of reason in that moment. 

I hope some of these suggestions become helpful to you in the journey to passing that exam. Good luck to you!