Stress Management Tips for Business Students During Exam Season

Exams – we’ve all been through them, and we all know how taxing they can be, both mentally and emotionally. Particularly for business students, the pressure to perform can seem monumental. Between financial studies, management strategies, and marketing plans, the curriculum is hefty and demanding. As exam season approaches, stress can mount, and those niggling fears about performance can become overwhelming.

However, it’s crucial to remember that stress, though a universal experience, can be managed and even harnessed to work in our favour. For business students in the UK and beyond, here are a few stress management strategies to consider:

1. Plan Ahead
   • Time Management: Start with creating a study schedule. Assign specific topics to specific days and adhere to it as much as possible. Breaking down your subjects into manageable chunks makes them less daunting.
   • Prioritise: Recognise which exams or topics require more of your attention. Allocate time accordingly to ensure you’re best prepared for each exam.
2. Stay Active
   • Physical activity is an outstanding stress buster. Even a simple 30-minute walk around campus can make a difference.
   • Join a university gym or engage in group sports. It’s not just about fitness; it’s about taking your mind off studies momentarily and rejuvenating.
3. Mindfulness and Meditation
   • Mindfulness has become increasingly popular in the UK, and for good reason. Taking 10 minutes out of your day to practice meditation can significantly reduce anxiety.
   • Techniques such as deep breathing, visualisation, or even progressive muscle relaxation can be potent tools.
4. Eat Right
   • Your diet directly affects how you feel. Consuming balanced meals rich in fruits, vegetables, lean proteins, and whole grains will keep your energy levels consistent.
   • Avoid too much caffeine or sugary snacks which can lead to energy crashes.
5. Get Adequate Sleep
   • We often undervalue sleep during exam prep. Aim for 7-9 hours a night.
   • Consider short power naps during the day if you’re feeling particularly worn out. They can recharge your cognitive batteries.
6. Stay Hydrated
   • The brain needs ample hydration to function optimally. Ensure you’re drinking at least 2 litres of water daily.
7. Breaks are Essential
   • It’s unrealistic and unproductive to study for hours on end without breaks. Every hour, take a 5-10 minute break. Stretch, have a snack, or simply rest your eyes.
8. Connect with Peers
   • Forming study groups can be highly beneficial. Not only do they allow collaborative learning, but they also offer a chance to socialise and remind oneself that everyone is in the same boat.
9. Reach Out for Support
   • Many UK universities offer counselling services for students. If you feel overwhelmed, don’t hesitate to use these resources.
10. Maintain Perspective

• Remember, exams are just a part of your educational journey. They don’t define your worth or future success.

As business students, you’re learning skills that’ll shape industries, drive economies, and lead teams. But first, you need to take care of yourselves. This exam season, keep stress in check and remember – you’ve got this!

By embracing these techniques and maintaining a balanced outlook, business students can ensure they’re not just prepared for exams, but are also building life skills for the future challenges of the business world.