2. Associating with negative people and small-time thinkers. These people will only slow you down. Keep your distance from them, especially during classes.
3. Making any particular test or project “special.” Every academic task, whether a study session, class, or test is important, but nothing is ever special. Special adds pressure. Treat everything the same. Consistency!
4. Believing ANY class, test, or assignment is too difficult to succeed in. You either believe in your potential, or you set yourself up for excuses on why you did not try.
5. Focusing on the past or future instead of the present moment. Only worry about the present and how you can do your best at this moment. This is especially important after failing, or getting a low grade on a test or assignment.
6. Under any circumstances using the word CAN’T. Don’t ever say that word! Your language dictates your actions.
7. Dwelling on a setback or failure. Learn the lesson, then move on, period. Just let it go and do it better next time. If you don’t feel like you can do better, think of what you can do to be more prepared next time to increase your confidence.
8. Focusing exclusively on test scores or achievements. Compete with yourself every day in the classroom to do your best, not just for the “big moments.”
9. Trying not to fail. “Protecting” your grade is the easiest way to lose it. Always look for more opportunities to improve and get outside of your comfort zone. Even if you have straight A’s, find a way to challenge yourself every day.
10. Using extreme self-talk, that puts extra pressure on you: MUST, SHOULD, or NEED TO. Remember, it’s all important but nothing is special. If you give consistent effort, you will get consistent results without adding pressure to yourself.
Bonus Mistake: Not taking advantage of a Mindset Expert and being totally mentally prepared to achieve your goals.