I live in a constant state of mild anxiety and I always have. Without the tension, I feel my motivation begin to slip. With finals coming up, this anxiety has started to build. My dread and worry have started to bring back insecurities that have not surfaced in a long time. Because of this, I think it is of utmost importance to acknowledge them and ensure that this pressure leads to growth instead of a loss of ethics.
First of all, my weaknesses do not define me. There is so much more to me than my inabilities. However, my weaknesses are also important to who I am. To provide a space for growth and self-reflection, one must recognize their weaknesses so that they can improve upon them. By realizing that we are able to improve, we allow ourselves the space to be confident.
Secondly, do not let the fear of the weaknesses overcome you. Fear of failure and shortcomings are intangible and irrational and by allowing them to fester, you may allow yourself to succumb to overwhelming stress. Recognize your weaknesses but don't inhibit yourself by dwelling on them.
Finally, don't relish in fallacies. Fallacies of perfection and "shoulds" are exactly what they say they are; fallacies. They are false ways of thinking. If you are anything like me, perfectionism leads to my biggest weaknesses. However, if you allow yourself to revel in these fallacies, you are only going to be disappointed and stressed because of them.
Human beings have flaws and that is inevitable. In a way, these flaws aid in our uniqueness. We cannot let ourselves be overcome with stress because of our weaknesses. Find strength in them instead.
As the semester draws to close, good luck to everyone on final exams and assignments!