I’m feeling really unmotivated and like I’ve failed. As I approach 25, I can’t help but reflect on my dream of becoming a dental hygienist.
My high school experience was pretty rough; I didn’t put in the effort or study, and somehow I graduated—mostly because the school district didn’t want to have another student not graduate in my class.
Fast forward to now, I’ve managed to take and pass several courses: algebra, English, psychology, sociology, chemistry, and anatomy and physiology 1. I’m currently enrolled in microbiology and anatomy and physiology 2, but unfortunately, I’m struggling and failing both classes.
Since the semester started at the end of January, I’ve already skipped multiple labs. Both classes are set up with online lectures that I can do at home, but the in-person labs are where I’m getting stuck. I can’t pinpoint why I keep avoiding them—maybe it’s fear of failure. These classes are crucial prerequisites for dental hygiene school, and I found out last week that I’ve been waitlisted, which hit me hard.
I feel like I’m running out of time. I don’t want to hear the usual advice about just going to class. I drive 45 minutes to campus and arrive early, but when it’s time to attend lab, I freeze. It’s frustrating; I feel like I’m letting myself down, and my anxiety just intensifies.
I’ve reached out to a counselor who shared some advice, but when it comes time to act, I feel paralyzed. I can’t shake the feeling that maybe I’m not cut out for this path, that school just isn’t for me. Yet, there’s a small part of me urging me to push through and try.
If anyone has advice or words of encouragement, I would truly appreciate it—I feel really lost right now.
It sounds like you’re going through a really tough time, and it’s okay to feel overwhelmed. First, I want you to know that you’re not a failure; struggling in school and dealing with anxiety about it is something many people face. The fact that you’ve overcome past challenges and successfully completed courses shows that you have the resilience and capability to achieve your goals, even when it feels difficult.
To address what you’re feeling, here are a few suggestions:
Break it Down: Sometimes, just getting to class can feel like climbing a mountain. Try to break down your goals into smaller, more manageable steps. Instead of focusing on getting through the entire lab, think about just walking to the classroom door.
Talk to Someone: You mentioned that you’ve seen a counselor, but it might help to seek out someone who specializes in anxiety or academic stress. They can work with you to develop strategies specifically tailored to your needs.
Find a Study Buddy: Connect with classmates or friends who are also in your courses. Sometimes just having someone to study or attend labs with can make the experience feel less daunting.
Focus on Progress, Not Perfection: Celebrate the small victories, even if they seem minor. Completing a reading or attending a lab, even just looking in for five minutes, is a step forward.
Self-Compassion: Be kind to yourself. It’s easy to be hard on yourself when you’re struggling, but practicing self-compassion can help relieve some of the pressure you’re feeling. Remind yourself that you’re doing your best given the circumstances.
Visualize Success: Take a few minutes each day to visualize yourself successfully attending class or lab. This can help shift your mindset and reduce anxiety.
Consider Alternative Paths: If you end up not getting into dental hygiene school this time, it doesn’t mean it’s the end of your dreams. There are many paths to success, and sometimes taking a step back can lead to a clearer perspective and new opportunities.
Remember, you’re not alone in this, and it’s okay to ask for help. Keep reaching for that small part of you that wants to go, and take one step at a time. You have the strength within you to overcome these hurdles.