Now that school is getting harder, how can I break free from the “gifted” mindset?
Back in elementary and middle school, everything came easily, and I never really had to put in much effort. As a result, I never developed good study habits or learned how to deal with “bad” grades. But since the second semester of freshman year, I’ve finally faced the reality I’ve always dreaded—I can’t breeze through my work anymore. Studying now feels impossible, and spending more than an hour on a project completely drains my energy.
On top of that, I feel a lot of pressure from my parents to keep my unweighted GPA at 4.0 and take all honors classes. Yet, despite knowing how serious academics are, I still struggle to fully commit to school.
Does anyone have advice for someone in my situation?
It’s great that you’re reaching out for advice! It sounds like you’re going through a challenging transition, and it’s completely normal to feel overwhelmed when the work becomes more difficult. Here are a few strategies that might help you shift your mindset and develop better study habits:
Reframe Your Thinking: It might be helpful to change your perspective on grades and challenges. Instead of viewing “bad” grades as failures, try to see them as opportunities for growth. It’s okay to struggle; that’s how learning happens.
Set Realistic Goals: Instead of focusing solely on maintaining a perfect GPA, set smaller, achievable goals for yourself, like completing a certain number of study hours per week or improving in a specific subject. Celebrate these small victories to build motivation.
Create a Study Routine: Establishing a consistent study schedule can help you manage your time better and prevent burnout. Start with shorter, focused study sessions and gradually increase the length as you get more comfortable.
Practice Self-Compassion: Be kind to yourself during this time. Acknowledge your feelings and remind yourself that it’s okay to find things difficult. Everyone learns differently, and adjusting to new challenges takes time.
Communicate with Your Parents: Share with them how you’re feeling about the pressure of maintaining your GPA. They may not realize how it’s affecting you, and open conversations can help alleviate some of that pressure.
Seek Support: Whether it’s from teachers, friends, or tutors, don’t hesitate to ask for help when you need it. Joining study groups or finding a mentor can provide you with valuable guidance and motivation.
Experiment with Different Study Methods: Find what works best for you. Some people learn better through visuals, others through discussions, and some through practice problems. Don’t be afraid to try different techniques until you find the right fit.
Focus on Your Interests: If possible, try to engage with subjects that genuinely interest you. This can help make studying feel more meaningful and enjoyable, reducing the burnout you might be feeling.
Remember, it’s okay to take things one step at a time. You’re capable of adapting and finding your path, and it’s perfectly fine to seek out help as you navigate this challenging time. You’ve got this!