As gaokao approaches, it can be hard to always keep yourself motivated. In the final period before my gaokao, I distinctly remember having several moments of self doubt. I would think to myself — Why am I pushing so hard? ____1____ That’s why I created a motivation list documenting every meaningful reason to persevere. With gaokao fast approaching, I want to share that list with you all.
It’s going to take me to great places!
While this can be difficult to think about during stressful study sessions, sometimes thinking about where gaokao is taking you can be a good, reassuring exercise. ____2____ If you have meaningful summer enrichment programs planned, look into that. Even without concrete post-exam plans, remember the nationwide recognition of gaokao as a pivotal academic gateway and all the opportunities it’s going to bring you!
____3____
When I was particularly stressed out, I would have a negative view of everything I’d done recently. In moments when I was really struggling to study, I’d think about some of the things I’d done in class which I really enjoyed. ____4____
I am going to have the best summer ever!
If I’m honest, this was probably what kept me going the most. ____5____ You have finished exams, and you can party/sleep/celebrate to your heart’s content. In moments of real desperation, I used to look up potential holiday destinations, or fun things me and my friends were going to do. While not all of these came to fruition, just the act of planning for the future made me feel more calm about the present.
A. I’ve enjoyed lots of things throughout the course.
B. Will I even achieve my target grades?
C. If you have an awesome university offer, think about that.
D. I found this really hard to remember at times.
E. Just reminding myself that I had enjoyed my lessons made tough moments easier.
F. Being nervous is completely normal, but constant self doubting is really terrible.
G. The summer after gaokao is so great — it’s long.