Prepare honestly

A Q and A career counselling column for students

I am preparing for competitive exams, but feel mentally exhausted. I used to be a topper, but I am struggling with consistency and motivation. Why is this happening. Kanagavalli

Dear Kanagavalli,

This could be a mix of much that you are feeling right now: performance anxiety, others’ expectations of you (living up to being a topper), your own identity crisis, peer pressure and just sheer cognitive burnout.

Competitive exams do not guarantee success; they are a process in themselves, and often laborious. They are uncertain, hard, long, repetitive, and have long portions.

So, maybe there is some self-doubt creeping in as well: what if I fail and don’t make it?

Meet a therapist and claim your sense of calm, confidence, and study habits. Only preparation and performance are in your control.