The Weather Phase We All Go Through

I was walking on campus the other day, and it just hit me how much your perception can literally change everything. We always talk about how the weather changes in a day, but we don't talk about how we change in a day. If the sky is gloomy and grey, suddenly the whole day feels sad. If it's too hot, we're like "ehh it's fine but it could be better." But when the weather is perfect, with that cool breeze hitting your face, it feels like the best day ever.

And honestly, that's how we treat life too. I didn't really notice it until recently, when I saw a friend go through that same "weather phase". It was actually crazy to see how much your brain can shift depending on what you tell yourself.

A few days before our exam, he was studying nonstop. Writing everything down, reviewing, doing all the right things. Basically, doing everything that everyone does to study for an exam to achieve the best results. And he knew the material. If you asked him a question on the topic, he would be able to give you a whole lecture on it. But the day before the exam? He kept telling himself he was going to fail, that nothing was sticking, that he wasn't ready. And it wasn't because he didn't know the content. It was literally just the mindset. Like he created his own gloomy weather.

After a couple of pep talks, he finally changed his perspective. He walked into the exam with a clearer head and walked out thinking he did great. And honestly, it wasn't that the studying may have magically clicked last minute but the negativity that finally stopped fogging up his brain. And I feel like we've all been there. You study so much, and then right before the exam your brain decides to panic and act like your forgot everything. That's the "gloomy weather" mindset taking over. It's that your brain is too busy thinking of all the things that could go wrong instead of thinking the exact opposite: that you'll do great.

That's why I kinda like the phrase "ignorance is bliss", hahaha. At least in this context. Not because you ignore the fact that you're not ready, but because you ignore all the negative outcomes your brain tries to throw at you. Sometimes you just have to shut that part off and trust that you tried your best. And yeah, that's easier said than done. I've been there too as everyone else has. That's what makes us human. And it's not embarrassing to admit it either. But think of it this way: if you do bad, at least you did it trying. There will always be another chance to do better. And if you do good, then hey, you did good. I'm proud of you.

This hits even harder in the pre-dental journey too. It doesn't just apply to academics in undergrad. Every cycle get more competitive and it feels like you have to do everything under the sun to get accepted. Even find the cure for cancer. But if this is something you truly want, you'll get there. Even if it means going through more trials and setbacks. You just have to remember that you put your best foot forward and see what unfolds from that.

And lastly, if you're applying this cycle, good luck! Remember, be your authentic self and show your passion for the field that you aspire to be in.