Exams. The word alone can send a shiver down a teenager’s spine.
I still remember sitting in my 9th-grade classroom, clutching my math paper as if it had the power to decide my entire future. For weeks, my friends and I lived on a steady diet of late-night coffee, highlighters, and whispered “Did you study this chapter?” moments. Looking back, I realize exams weren’t just about marks; they were about testing patience, focus, and how well we handled pressure.
Many of us felt exams defined our worth. I had a friend who broke down after scoring lower than expected in English, even though she was the most creative storyteller I knew. Another friend, the calmest guy in our group, surprised us all by topping the class, not because he studied 12 hours a day, but because he studied smart, taking breaks and playing football to keep his head clear. These stories remind us that exams are not a measure of intelligence, but one of many checkpoints in our growing years.
So, what should you do when exams loom over you like a storm cloud? First, remember they are a part of life, not the whole of it. Treat them like training rounds, opportunities to learn about your strengths, gaps, and how you handle stress. Second, focus on preparation that feels healthy: take short walks, explain concepts to a friend, or even doodle mind maps if that helps. And finally, be kind to yourself. A score is temporary; the skills you build: discipline, resilience, curiosity; are permanent.
Here’s a small reflection exercise: Ask yourself, “What do exams teach me beyond the syllabus?” Write your answer honestly. You might be surprised at what you discover about yourself. Let us know your response to this question in the email id friends@genwe.today.