Yes the HSC is challenging. It’s meant to be. It is a test, an evaluation of what you remember, what you have understood and how well you express your ideas. It is also a transitional point. Therefore, rather than seeing the HSC as barrier to be overcome, why don’t you see it as a tunnel to move through.
Maybe this analogy will help. Imagine you’ve been on a year long holiday. At the beginning of this journey you packed enough clothes and equipment to carry you through. Now you need to pack a smaller bag, just the essentials to get you to the next stage. You’ll use your previous experiences to determine which items are most useful – you know, the tools you’ll you need to survive and thrive. Take these into the tunnel with you.
Although the tunnel is narrower than the preceding road and at times may seem to close in around you, remember, it is just a tunnel. It is a passage that goes somewhere. It will take you to a wide avenue that branches toward fresh opportunities. You have packed your bag, it is filled with ideas, thoughts and dreams of your future. This will be your guide.
Yes, the HSC is a challenge to move through, but it is not a barrier to overcome. Just as a coin has two sides, the HSC has a natural duality – it simultaneously marks the end of one aspect of your life and the beginning of another.
Now for a few practical tips to help you get through the HSC;
1. Get at least 8 hours sleep each night. Sleep allows you to consolidate your learning. It is time for your brain to process the information you have been revising.
2. Maintain a regular daily routine by ‘timetabling’ the day into ‘periods’;
– Study (active reading & active practice e.g past papers),
– Exercising (this could include going for a walk and listening to podcasts related to your study material or reflecting upon what you have been studying)
– Socialising (this could include talking about the subject material with friends and family)
– Relaxing
– Eating
– Sleeping.
Remember, each of these is an important element in your preparation.
3. Allocate 10 – 15 minutes to mindfulness or focused breathing. Like sleep, mindfulness or focussed breathing gives your brain an opportunity to process information without ‘you’ or rather your constant thoughts, getting in the way. It also helps you build mental fitness and focus.
Oh, and remember to enjoy the experience.
Welcome to a World of Expression
If you would like some personalised study coaching contact Nicole nicole@isthismystory.com
You can learn more about our workshops here.
You can get a copy of Nicole’s e-book here and paperback here (or for a limited first edition contact Nicole: nicole@isthismystory.com)
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