A new angle on test-prep: use it to empower yourself
December 26th, 2009
This is the second in a series of posts about an article by Lynn Sweet in Politics Daily on Michelle Obama, her own struggles with test anxiety.
While the First Lady spoke to a group of high school girls in Denver, as part of a new mentoring program she is kicking off, Mrs. Obama gave her listeners a bit of practical advice on test preparation: “You’ve got to prepare for the tests, take them seriously because they are part of the measures, they’re part of the system. But don’t let these tests defeat you. Don’t let them define you.”
Mrs. Obama is touching on two very important points in test preparation: 1) take tests seriously; 2) don’t let the tests defeat or define you.
I agree. Taking tests seriously means looking at the question: how can I grow from this experience (this test)? Students I see in my practice often treat tests as something they have to get over and done with. “Just tell me what I need to know for the test.” Unfortunately this is wasting everyone’s time and energy. Tests are there for you to learn the material, not just spit it back. When you take on the challenge of really learning something (understanding it, knowing how it is relevant to your life). you will grow intellectually; and just as importantly, you will grow personally. You will take on the challenge, you will become stronger in yourself, you will be building your emotional and cognitive muscles to take on other challenges in your life, all the tests we all face every day.
Mrs. Obama is right, don’t let tests defeat or define you. Treat them as an opportunity to grow, to be a better, stronger, more knowledgeable, tuned in and resourceful person. You’ll become the kind of citizen the President and First Lady will be proud of. You’ll become the person you are proud of.
To read Lynn Sweet’s article go to: http://www.politicsdaily.com/2009/11/18/what-made-michelle-obama-anxious-and-nervous/
Send me your stories of how tests have helped you to grow. I’d like to publish them here.
