Recently, my students have been facing a big test. There are real apprehensions and fears that normally occur with a test must be taken. Some people have such severe test anxiety that it causes them to shut down and not be able to focus or be successful on test.   This is a very real problem.  So as their teacher, I was trying to prepare them and help address any anxiety they had surrounding the testing that was coming.   

In the face of a test, pessimism and negativity tear us down and discourages us. It causes us to believe that we will fail.  This leads to anxiety.  Anxieties not properly addressed, ignored, or dismissed can also lead to a negative outcome. So how do we deal with this test pressure, what can be done to successfully handle test anxiety?  

I knew that although the students couldn’t change the fact that they need to take the test or that so many important things were dependent on passing the test. Yet I also knew that if they became overwhelmed by anxiety the anxiety could trigger poor performance.  Thereby being a self-fulfilling prophecy.  Thinking you will fail, and then allowing it to overwhelm you which causes you to fail or not even try. So, what should they do, what can help relieve these anxiety and take the pressure off? 

What they can change is their attitude towards the test. They needed to realize that they could pass it.  They could be successful.  A winning attitude, that’s what they need. What do I mean? I’m not speaking of an unrealistic expectation, or a denial of reality. I’m also not speaking of pretending that they are winners no matter what because they must face the possibility of failure. I’m talking about knowing that you can, knowing that you have been equipped, knowing if you give 100% and you do your best and prepare, then you will have success. Even great athletes will visualize the victory. They will see themselves crossing the finish line long before they reach it.  They will dream of receiving the accolades and rewards after crossing that finish line. They practice and condition their bodies as well to prepare. I told my students that you can’t remove the challenge, but you can change your attitude towards a challenge, instead of fear have faith and boldness. Faith because you have prepared and are ready.  Boldness and courage to act in spite of your fears or anxieties. 

I know you also need to prepare both athletes and anyone else who faces any kind of a race or test must prepare. But even with preparation you fight negativity and the thoughts that maybe you can’t.  Thoughts that maybe you could fail. This applies in Christian life as well. Is Christian life really so different? Don’t we go through tests and trials? Try a new attitude, don’t cower or fear the inevitable, the challenges and tests that life will bring, stand firm instead.  Prepare so you will be ready.  Finally, visualize your victory because we have already received it. Christ won it. Did Paul not admonish us to do the same and counted all joy? Don’t dread the test, prepare and boldly seek for the victory!