So by now you've figured out that studying for the GMAT is pretty tough. The 5 hours of studying a week just doesn't seem to be cutting it. You've got family, work, friends, maybe kids, and other obligations all needing your immediate attention. No one said the GMAT was going to be easy right? Well, this might be your first taste of what getting an MBA feels like. Studying is not all its cracked up to be!
One of the best ways to kick start your studying is to get your friends, family, significant others, and everyone and everything else in line and set expectations before you start your GMAT Journey. Here are some tips and tricks to get the most important things in life on board with your GMAT studying so that you can put 100% concentration on your goals.
1. Set ExpectationsYou're just beginning your GMAT journey and you've realized that this is going to take some serious dedication. You might not be the same b/f or g/f, spouse, or worker until your done with this. It is always an excellent idea to speak with the people you care about most. This will be your significant others, kids, wives, husbands, friends, or anyone else you turn to often. Tell them about your GMAT and MBA aspirations and let them know that your going to need their support and help while you put in the long hours. Let them know that this might be your part time job for awhile, but that it's all going to pay off when you're making the big bucks after your MBA! Having their support will be needed, and managing expectations from the beginning, and having the tough conversations will let you have a smooth GMAT journey.
2. Get Your Loved Ones InvolvedWell, it might not be the best idea to study with your spouse or friends, but there are definitely some great ways you can get them involved and actually maybe even get some enjoyment out of studying. Here are a few examples:
Ask for GMAT related gifts for holidays, birthdays, special dates, etc: Finding that perfect gift can be challenging, so why not let them know exactly what you want. Plus it will show your commitment, and allow them to get involved.
Set aside a specific night of the week with no GMAT: Having that night away from the GMAT will not only keep you from getting "burn out" it will also show your loved ones that you care. Plus, it's a night of the week that not only you, but they can look forward to also.
Let them know how much you appreciate their support: Sometimes its as stressful for the people not taking the test as it is for you. They play off your emotions, and come along for the rollercoaster ride. Continue to thank them and show them that you appreciate their support. Sometimes the best thing to do is to set up a vacation, special dinner, or event the night or weekend after your actual exam date. Make this the date that both you and your loved ones can look forward to regardless of how you do on your test.
3. Minimize NegativityThis may be an obvious one, but you'd be surprised how easy it can be to have negative energy around you during your studies. Remind all your loved ones that you're truly dedicated to this journey, and make sure to let them know that you want to keep things as positive as possible. If your friends are giving you a hard time over low test scores, and making it a competition, you're going to have to take a break or ask that they stay away from those topics. It will only increase anxiety. For your family and loved ones, you'll have to request that they stay as positive as possible, and remind them when negative things come up, to just let them go so that it doesn't get in the way of your goals. A lot of this negativity won't seem so big 10 years from now when you're on your private jet right? Don't let the small stuff get in the way of your studying, and your ability to attain your goals.
4. Try to Forget About the GMAT When Your Not StudyingAsk for your friends and families help to keep your mind off the GMAT when your not studying. It's easy to let the whole process take over your life! When your out to dinner, or watching tv, or on the phone with your mom, and the GMAT comes up in conversation, try to minimize the chat, move to another topic, or request to speak about something else. It's too easy to get caught thinking about it, talking about it, and living it 24 hours a day. It isn't healthy for you or your loved ones so it is really crucial to seperate study time and all other times. Sometimes its even best just to ask them to help you keep your mind off of it. This again will keep you from getting burned out, and will keep you level headed for studying and test day.
The GMAT can be an overwhelming experience if you let it take over every aspect of your life! It's a big change from your normal day to day, and following these tips can really help with your transition into student life. This is a taste of what an MBA is about, and by being a mature adult, and having the tough conversations, you'll be well on your way to test day success. The GMAT is full of intangibles, all that will help you no test day... if you need further proof, check out these other tips I've compiled:
10-tips-to-improve-your-score-app-with-no-extra-studying-124393.htmlKeep your nose in the books, your families strong, your friends close, and your life on track! GOOD LUCK ON TEST DAY!
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