Though I had a pretty good idea about the exam, walking the path and being in the game was a whole new experience for me. Brushing aside my nerves, I started working on my speed of attempting the questions followed by enhancing my accuracy. Some of the good habits I picked up on the way were reading the newspapers every day and being aware and informed about my surroundings, and developing the interest to learn and explore new subjects, which I realised when I had exhausted all the resources provided by the Academy. By giving mock tests, my reading speed and analytical skills improved by leaps and bounds. With the passage of time, I could make out the difference in my level of understanding and comprehension.

On the psychological aspect, I was anxious in the beginning. A few months into the preparation, days flew by so fast that there was no time to comprehend my emotions. In November, with one month left for the big exam, I cut myself off from the outside world, fully engaged in getting myself ready to gain entry to my dream university, the National Law School of India University, Bangalore. It was difficult to say no to social gatherings and events, but I knew the pain of discipline would always be worth it.

Fast forward to the present, I have achieved what I had aimed for and had been so passionate about, with hard work, discipline and dedication. The constant support of my parents, teachers, friends and the institution helped me achieve this endeavour. I cannot but remember my mentor, Ms Hema Raman, who had been there for me all along. This examination has taught me to be resilient and has shaped me to be a better person. One important life lesson I have learnt from this experience is that motivation fades away over a period of time; it is discipline that helps you keep moving forward and takes you where you want to be.

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Fitness and exercise are important for everyone. Playing a sport is a great way for children to take a break from academics and release pent-up energy. It also helps them lead fuller and happier lives, as regular sports and fitness activities have proven to provide not only physical benefits but also social and psychological benefits to children. Today, let’s discuss the benefits of sports for students.

Character-building Traits

Self-confidence and self-esteem
Several studies suggest that playing sports develops a child’s self-confidence and self-esteem. A pat on the back, high-five from a teammate or a handshake after a match really boosts a child’s confidence. Words of praise and encouragement from the coach, parents and other players raise one’s self-esteem. An important thing to remember is that a child’s self-esteem should not be distinguished by victory or loss. It also helps when you ask, “Did you enjoy the game?” rather than “Did you win?”

Manage emotions
We know how emotions run high in sports — whether watching a sport or playing it. Channelling negative emotions can be tough for children and a good coach will help them realise how negative emotional stress could hurt their performance. Such wisdom ingrained earlier on in life will help them deal with other life challenges later on.

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One tool you have to overcome this negative internal dialogue is discipline. If you decide to do something regardless of your negative internal voice, in time the negative inner voice will diminish, and self-defeating thoughts will be replaced by positive ones.

The post Your internal voice appeared first on The Teenager Today.