Nobody wants to be a failure in life. No one wants to come and leave this earth without having any (positive) impact. Your desire to succeed is evidence enough that you can succeed, and not everyone does. But, success is not for those who want it, but for those who work for it. This is applicable to all aspects of our daily life.
In academics, the formula for success does not change; your success will only come as a result of the amount of effort (strength) you put into it. An object will remain stationary until a force is applied; the force that you apply to your studies to be successful is STUDY; “study to show approval”. The only guarantee you have to succeed in your studies is studying.
There are different reasons that can be attributed to people’s academic or other failure and some of them will be briefly discussed below.
Fear: An emotion experienced in anticipation of some specific pain or danger (usually accompanied by a desire to flee or fight). The number one reason so many people have failed today and why so many continue to fail is fear, fear of the unknown. If you are to succeed in the exam, you must be able to manage your fear, otherwise you will ruin your chances of success. What you cannot face, you cannot conquer. So, face your fear!
Lack of Preparation: Another reason students fail exams is due to lack of preparation or inadequate preparation. Studying means reading carefully with the intention of remembering. But, it is quite unfortunate that many students read sloppily, hence the reason for their failed attempts at exams. Studying requires planning, you have to plan properly; “Whoever does not plan, plans to fail.” Proper preparation is a very important step towards academic excellence. Don’t let it catch you off guard!
Inability to follow instructions: I recently heard about a group of people who went to a job interview in writing and when they arrived at the location, question papers and answer booklets were handed out. Within seconds, some were on their feet to submit while others were still busy writing, and at the end of the day, they all failed because they didn’t follow the instructions on the brochure that says, “Do not write anything in this brochure.” As a student or someone who wants to write a test, always read and follow all instructions given to you.
Time Management: Time is a period of time considered a resource under your control and sufficient to accomplish something. Your ability to administer it correctly indicates to a large extent whether you will be successful on a particular exam. You must control time, don’t let time control you.
Indifferent or Negative Attitude Toward Teacher or Lecturer: In whatever we do as individuals, there is a need for us to pay close attention to our attitude. When the attitude towards something is negative, the chances of success are always very slim. Attitude is a complex state of mind that involves beliefs and feelings, values, and dispositions to act in a certain way. So, for your own good, always have or develop a positive attitude towards whatever you are doing, be it academics or any other area of your life. Don’t let people determine the way you run your life, otherwise you become a confused being.
Family or household distractions: Back in my college days, this is one aspect I never joked about. There is no way that a distracted mind can produce the best results that it is capable of producing. As a student, when an exam is coming up, first clear your mind of anything that might be disturbing you and not allowing you to focus on what you are reading or preparing for. Doing this will help you concentrate well and improve your success. Don’t let “family” problems destroy your life and career.
As you read, consider and take to heart the tips discussed above, applying them, I see that you will succeed and become the best. See you at the top!