Dear Alex
Exams are coming and everyone is nervous, I think I’m prepares, but some nights I have terrible dreams about staring at the exam paper and not knowing anything. Sometimes I dream about my pens not working or just not understanding the question. These aren’t normal nightmares. When I wake up, I feel like I’ve had a fever and haven’t slept at all. Is there a way to stop these dreams?
Stressed-out insomniac
———————————————————————————————————-
Dear Stressed-out insomniac,
Thank you for your letter. I felt sympathetic towards your problem. Having a bad sleep also costs your concentration on lesson. I think the main point to get rid of nightmares is to relax yourself.
Of course, I understand how examination kept your stomach in knots, and your mind may even go blank even though you have prepared well. Don’t put too much pressure on yourself or even force yourself to study 24 hours a day. Try to take a 15-to-30-minute break between 2-3 hours of revision. You can watch TV, have a nap or look at the views. Don’t play games which will keep you intense. You may think resting is a waste of time. But bear in mind that relaxing can let your brain rest, and you can be more efficient in the coming time. Use your time wisely. You can draw a timetable. In addition, you can use a timer to time your revision progress.
On the exam day, you should not study in a hurry. You will be even more nervous, because you will notice what you have forgotten and got into a muddle. To do a rough revision on key points is fine already. Don’t forget to take a deep breath.
I guess, the reason of having nightmare is your lack of confidence. Trust yourself more, because you are the only person who knows yourself the most. Working hard is important, but there is one thing that matters more: believing in yourself. Don’t forget this.
I am sure if you follow my advice, you will step into a sweet dream instead of nightmares. You are welcome to write to me again. I keep my fingers crossed on you!
Best wishes,
Alex