Getting Better Grades Is About Self Mastery

Today, Nick shares with us some of his challenges that will help you to see that you’re not alone. We all do this to some extent. Self Mastery is about controlling our emotions. My study book is about relieving the pressure and stress of studying so that you don’t put yourself in a pressure cooker.

Read Nick’s e-mail below and my response that follows.

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Hey Dr. Dussault,

I understand where you’re coming from and I deeply appreciate your concern for me in reaching my full potential.

Ever since I was little, I was the reader who struggled to Excel on standardized tests and to comprehend books. I always felt like I was the slowest reader in the class, as it continues to be a great insecurity of mine.

I also tend to beat myself down when I don’t succeed at say playing sports, improving my reading and grades, etc. But when I look at myself now, I have a 4.0 GPA in high school right now and I’m also a starter on a premier soccer club. Why am I always beating myself up?

This was why I bought your speed reading videos. I was so frustrated with the reading course I was taking at home, that I wanted to try yours. However, like you said, things takes time.

Thanks
Nick

P.S. In regards to your study book, my goal is primarily to become more efficient with my studies, since I procrastinate like you cannot believe. However, I have seen only a slight improvement because I keep going back to my old ways and having trouble following through with your techniques. As you said, It’s not easy, but I am up for the challenge and will continue to strive “onward and upward”.

First of all, Nick is being VERY honest and forthcoming. That is the first thing you have to do to be a great student – well great at anything – it’s to be self-aware. Know yourself so you know what you’re trying to improve.

One of the things Nick MUST stop using is the LABEL of procrastinator. if you see, hear and feel yourself as a procrastinator, you will remain one. Instead, whenever you say that word to yourself, INSTANT correct yourself and say “No, I am an action taker who is taking control of my life and destiny.”

I know it sounds childish – just try it and trust the process.

The next suggestion I have for Nick is to stop beating himself up, but to REWARD his victories and accomplishments.

I recently won a Silver Medal at the 2009 Australian Masters Games in Squash. To celebrate, I posted it on my Personal Mastery Blog, and at a recent event I actually brought my Silver Medal to show my clients who supported me. It was fun, but it also felt good to SHARE the victory with them.

We all need to celebrate the victories.

Holding ourselves to a higher standard does NOT mean you have to beat yourself up or down. Others will do that to you.

You need to keep yourself MOTIVATED and EXCITED.

So, Stop It! <— Click here to watch a funny video.