We spend the first quarter of our life in schools preparing for final exams. Final exams are, as their name suggests, big and important. The more important ones determine which high schools and colleges we attend and have a sizeable impact on our life.
Real life is very different though. There are no final exams – only a never ending series of class tests. Some class tests are more important than others but, in the final analysis, it remains just a class test. There are a couple of nice advantages to this.
First, class tests allow for endless iteration. Yes, doing badly on a more important test can close a door but our progress in the long run will be determined by our persistence, tenacity, and the rate at which we learn from our successes and failures.
Second, our best selves don’t matter nearly as much as our average selves or who we are most of the time. In the long run, we make a difference when we raise our average performance level and ensure our lows aren’t damaging. Balance in our mental state isn’t overrated.
Finally, a never ending series of class tests means we can never cite lack of motivation or inspiration as an excuse. Every time we feel a lack of internal energy, we must stop and repeat – “I am the master of my fate. I am the captain of my soul.”
Enjoy today’s tests and trial. It’s the infinite game – let’s have some fun!
A Learning a Day 