How to Overcome a Lack of Academic Confidence

One of the scariest things about school is the sense that "they're all smarter than I am." These steps should help you get on the path toward slaying this demon.

Instructions

Difficulty: Challenging

Things You’ll Need:

• SAT II Study Guides
• SAT Study Guides
• Self-esteem Books
• Stress Relief Products
• Study Books
• Palm Handheld Organizers
• Personal Organizers

1. Realize that most people who seem overly intelligent aren't any smarter than anyone else. It's often just a matter of presentation.
2. Recognize that you have your own kind of intelligence, which might not be measured well by standardized tests or "normal" grading criteria.
3. Tell yourself that you're not going to be intimidated by people who appear, in your eyes, to be smarter than you are.
4. Take the high ground: If someone tries to make you look stupid, realize it's probably that person's insecurities coming through and has nothing to do with your intelligence.
5. Study. Your feelings of intellectual inferiority may stem from being less prepared than your classmates, not less intelligent.
6. Contact your school's academic-counseling office. The professionals there have a wealth of advice for you.

Tips & Warnings

• Remember that you're not alone. People often "feel stupid" in the world of academia, but it rarely has anything to do with intelligence.
• Keep in mind that standardized tests and "normal" grading criteria don't measure your potential or how hard you tried.