Kasey is an educator with a passion for equipping people for success. Whether she is teaching in a classroom or learning lessons from her own husband and children, Kasey is a life-long learner and enjoys sharing the insights God has impressed on her. Kasey’s first book, “7 Ways To Be a S.M.A.R.T.E.R Mom” is available in major bookstores and online. As founder and president of Smarter Moms LLC, Kasey has the opportunity to network with and speak to women’s and mom’s groups across the country. Kasey is married to Matt Johnson, and has three sons: Matthew (8), Tyler (6), James (3) and a puppy – Charlie. Kasey and Matt live in Olathe, KS.
Check out Kasey’s blog for moms at
http://smartermoms.wordpress.com.
Stress Test
The spring semester brings an amazing amount of stress, transitions and tests to most students. Whether it is a pop quiz or an admissions essay, it seems like the spring is dictated by deadlines. Some of you are facing standardized tests, research papers and final exams. Others of you might not have a test on paper, but a test of endurance in your spirit. When these stressors appear we have to confront them from two vantage points:
1) What the Lord needs from us.
I challenge you to spend time “practicing” your faith. Matthew 6:6 says, “Then your Father, who sees what is done in secret, will reward you”. When we spend time in prayer we practice hearing our Maker’s voice. When we read and memorize the scriptures we practice our need to protect our hearts and minds from the world’s influence. Our reward comes through the peace and focus that God brings to our minds and heart when stress battles its way into our spirit.
2) What the world requires of us.
Some studies published in educational journals report that between 20-40% college students suffer from test anxiety. Here’s a quick list of symptoms that accompany test anxiety:
In your head
• Mental blank – outs
• Racing thoughts
• Difficulty concentrating
• Negative thoughts about past performance, consequences of failure, how everyone else is doing
• Knowing the answers after the test, but not while taking it
In your body
• Nausea
• Cramps
• Faintness
• Sweating
• Headache
• Dry mouth
• Increased breathing rate
• Fast heartbeat
• Tense muscles
So what can we do when the world requires us to take a test? Well, here are some ideas:
1) Learn about the test.
Ask the teacher what kind of questions (essay, T/F, etc) will be on it or check out a sample test on line or at the local library for standardized tests.
2) Make a study schedule and stick to it.
Whether you study with friends or alone, try to prepare ahead of time. Don’t stay up late cramming the night before, new learning bumps out the old information – YIKES!
3) Take the pressure off yourself.
Counteract the negative thoughts with positive ones…you don’t have to know the answer to every single question.
4) Stop labeling yourself or setting negative expectations.
Each test is a fresh start, so approach it with a positive mental attitude and never say, “I’m just not a good test taker”. You’re only setting yourself up for negativity – you can do this!
5) Take care of your body and your mind will profit from it.
Get rest and eat right!
All occupations (including being a mom) require us to balance our emotional tests with the real work that comes with our profession. Right now you are preparing yourself for how to handle life and your future as an adult. This preparation time isn’t about being a perfect person – it’s about finding balance between faith and action.
Some of you might have a verse or routine that brings you comfort and helps you focus when a lot is going on. The sisterhood needs to hear from you! What have you done in the past when you’ve been faced with academic projects and decisions that have been overwhelming? Your ideas will help other girls find solace and peace in the midst of stressful times and that brings God glory!
Thanks for sharing! You guys rock!
Kasey