I struggle with perfectionism and am used to getting good grades and high exam scores.
However, the GRE has completely humbled me and leaves me feeling absolutely devastated and frustrated. Even missing a handful of questions will send me into a vortex of negative self-talk and despair. I am having a hard time remaining optimistic that this is something I can get a competitive score on…
Any experienced test takers here have any good resources or advice on how to avoid perfectionism and just focus on growth? I have a very hard time snapping out of this mindset and frankly, it’s leaving me emotionally exhausted.
Everyone has different challenges, and different strategies will work for different people. I’d say that, while you are studying, don’t view mistakes or wrong answers as failure, because studying is purely for improvement. Learning is the measure of success of studying. When you actually sit for the test, then yeah maybe the score is the measure. But, as long as you are in your study process, thats not the most relevant metric.
stop tying so much of your self worth to grades and academics. it’s easier said than done. but you are the one creating your own negative spirals. instead of falling into old habits (being mean to yourself), choose to focus on positive and kinder thoughts instead, which may sound trite, but it works lol. keep track of small wins and focus on those and ur progress vs everything ur doing wrong. this test is definitely humbling lol but studying for it won’t last forever!
