As a college student, I am constantly working on something or studying for the next big test. The amount of pressure that comes with this is ridiculous. Sometimes you just fall short of what you were hoping to achieve. This is the time when you really need to step back and put things into perspective.
Grades shouldn't define you, and you shouldn't let it measure your self-worth. You are so much more than what a piece of paper will tell you. Just because you get a failing grade does not mean that you are a failure at life.
This is not to say that it doesn't completely blow to work so hard for what seems like nothing in return. We bust our butts to study or get assignments completed, and yet sometimes it doesn't go as planned. We can not let any of this hold us back. Just because you receive a bad grade does not mean that you are not smart.
Intelligence comes in all shapes and sizes. Some people are just not meant for school but happen to be some of the most intelligent and influential characters. Look at Bill Gates. He failed several classes, yet still managed to become one of the most forward-thinking and successful individuals in history.
This is what we should learn to not be afraid of: failure. If you fail time and time again but are still willing to get back up and try, I believe that that says so much more about you as a person than any grade ever will.
In some cases, you just have to step back and think about what you want out of life and out of your schooling. If what you want is to get the job of your dreams, then you are probably already determined. What you need to know is that there are so many employers that don't even look at your GPA. They are more interested in who you are as a person and a future employee.
Another aspect to be aware of is that others' expectations should not be the reason why you place so much pressure on yourself. If you are to truly succeed, you will do it on your own terms and for your own reasons. Living up to someone else's goals for you is nearly impossible, and definitely not worth the stress.
You have to remember that stuff happens. Life will sometimes get in the way of your schooling, as with anything, and it may throw you off track. Don't let this break you, but let it become a chance to build.
Look at these disappointing moments as a chance for improvement. You are not perfect, but it doesn't mean that you can't strive for perfection. You may never reach it, but at least you have the opportunity to try.
The real question is how will you deal with this disappointment? Will you choose to let this define you, or will you take the better path?
