Occasional uncertainty is just as much a part of studying as uncomfortable lecture halls. It is only important that you do not remain in this situation, but quickly find your way back to your inner strength.
And all you need is a little impulse, a thought at the right time for your self-confidence to return.
Here are ten of them:
#1 Today I’m Starting Over
No matter what happened yesterday, the last two weeks, or during the past five years, you can start something new every day and every moment. You’re always able to put your past (or annoying bits of it) behind you and start afresh.
Example – preparation for a lockout:
“The last few days I’ve been lazy and didn’t study much, but today that’s changing. Today I’m starting a new phase in my preparation; today I start anew.”
#2 It’s in My Own Hands
Many students’ self-confidence suffers because they feel dependent on other people. They feel powerless and think they are dependent on the actions of certain groups of people (professors, lecturers, or fellow students) in order to be successful and happy themselves. And this apparent loss of control can paralyze you and force you into a passive role. But that’s exactly what you must not allow yourself to do: Realize that you design your studies and your life yourself – and no one else.
Example – exam:
“The upcoming exam will be difficult and a big challenge, but I have it in my own hands. If I plan wisely, work hard, and prepare as best I can, I will be successful. I am not dependent on anyone and I have it in my own hands.”
#3 I’m Not Interested in What Other People Do.
Your current challenges aren’t about what others would do or have done in that situation—it’s all about you. To you all alone, However, if you compare yourself to other people, there is a risk that you will focus on possible deficits and no longer focus on your personal strengths. Don’t become a selfish elbow monster but focus only on yourself in your actions; don’t compare yourself to others.
Example – course of study:
“I don’t care how other fellow students plan and structure their studies. I study at my own pace and choose the subjects that I feel like doing. If I need a little longer to prepare for the exam or in general, that’s okay and just right for me. I study as I see fit. I’m not interested in what other people do.”
#4 The Only Limit Is in My Head
Are you one of those students who convince themselves they can’t do this or that? Self-limitation, limiting yourself through irrational fears, is one of the most common problems faced by intelligent young people. Realize that your development potential is limitless and is hardly limited by external circumstances. You can do anything – if you let yourself.
Example – academic success:
“I will no longer let negative thoughts slow me down during my studies. I’m hardworking and smart. And: I will be more successful than ever before. The only limit is in my head – and I can influence that.”
#5 No Matter What Happens: It Goes On
Especially when important milestones are approaching in your studies (exam phase, individual exams, or important election decisions), the possible consequences can damage your self-confidence. Worst-case scenarios like “What if I fail every exam?” or “What happens if I choose the wrong subject?” have a poisonous effect and create a negative mood. But you have to learn to take risks.
You will always have to take risks in life and face situations whose outcome is not clear. Only one thing is clear: no matter how it ends: it will continue. Remember, that there are always solutions to any problems that you meet in your life. Even college assignments can be dealt with simple help with literature review.
Example – exam result:
“Tomorrow I’ll write the most difficult exam of this semester. I’m afraid of failing and failing, but I will face that fear. No matter what happens: After that, it will continue, and I will find a good way.”
#6 I Am Brave and Will Try
If you want to achieve something, the first thing you have to do is have courage and at least try. Such are the rules; There’s no way around it. The thing is, many students try far too little. They do not dare. They are afraid of failure and remain within their comfort zone throughout their studies. But after that at the latest – in the big, bad professional world – they are then thrown in at the deep end – without having learned to swim first. However, if you were courageous beforehand, have outgrown yourself, and tried many things, you will stand at the edge of the pool with your seahorse and jump voluntarily. That would be something, right?
This is how you strengthen your self-confidence (example: giving a presentation):
“Tomorrow I have to present the results of my study work in a lecture. I hate speaking in front of people and I’m incredibly excited. But tomorrow I’ll outgrow myself. I will be brave and try. Maybe it won’t be perfect, but afterward, I’ll be proud of myself.”
#7 Nothing and Nobody Can Stop Me
Quick recap: The only limit is in your head (#4). No event or other person can stop you once you really get going. Never tell yourself that others might stop you – talk yourself out of it.
Example: stupid learning partner:
“My study partner is lazy and blocks me. I like him, but I have the impression that he’s holding me back and that’s why I can’t reach my full potential. Still, he won’t be able to stop me. I am determined and will study so hard that I will be successful in the end. Nothing and nobody can stop me.”