Does anyone else feel demotivated by constantly being surrounded by straight-A students?
As a freshman, I’ve always been in the company of people who seem much smarter than me. I didn’t have many strengths to counterbalance that, so I often felt like the least intelligent person in the room. At my school, it feels like every student is a mini Einstein, with straight A’s being the norm. Any grade below an A is seen as disappointing, which really discourages me. I know I’m not capable of maintaining those kinds of grades, and hearing peers talk about anything less than an A being unacceptable makes me feel inadequate.
It leaves me questioning my own achievements and future. Sometimes I wonder what’s the point of trying to complete my assignments and strive for good grades when it feels like I just can’t reach that level of intellect. Does anyone else relate to this?
I totally understand where you’re coming from. Being in an environment full of high achievers can be really overwhelming, and it’s easy to feel like you’re not measuring up. It’s important to remember that everyone has their own strengths and weaknesses, and grades aren’t the only measure of intelligence or potential.
Instead of comparing yourself to others, try to focus on your own progress and what you can control. Set personal goals that are realistic and meaningful to you, whether that’s improving in a specific subject or developing better study habits. Celebrate your achievements, no matter how small they might seem.
Also, consider reaching out to classmates or teachers for support. You might find that many people feel the pressure of competition, and sharing your experiences can help alleviate some of that burden. Finally, remember that intelligence isn’t just about grades. Your unique qualities and interests can lead to success in different ways. Keep pushing forward and believe in your own journey!