GRE/GMAT and Life Lessons

Studying for and attempting a competitive exam like the GRE or GMAT aids our personal and professional growth in numerous ways. Perhaps ETS also considered this when designing the examination. Below are several life lessons to ponder as you study for the test.

1. Living in the present

The examination demands our absolute presence in the moment. We must concentrate entirely on the prompt before us and devise creative solutions for the present challenge. Dwelling on a past question wastes valuable time needed for the current one! Don't we need to cultivate this exact mindset of focusing on current solutions and staying present in our daily lives? We cannot afford to dwell constantly on the past or the future. The most vital habit in life is to remain firmly in the present while progressing steadily through deliberate methods. We ought to prepare as thoroughly as possible beforehand, and our self-assurance grows when we address the exact issue at the exact time.

2. Strategy

We must think intelligently and employ strategic approaches to answer the questions. Frequently, we need to think unconventionally to resolve questions quickly and efficiently. The same principle applies to our everyday existence, does it not? When obstacles arise, we often feel trapped. However, if we master the skill of stepping back from our difficulties and viewing them from a fresh perspective, we can devise innovative strategies and much more effective solutions.

3. Managing stress and anxiety successfully

Similar to real-life situations, the test requires us to manage stress and anxiety proficiently. A mild degree of nervousness can keep us sharp rather than indifferent, but excessive worry can overwhelm us and ruin our efforts. Mastering the art of handling stress and anxiety effectively is a valuable lesson we gain from this exam.

4. Efficient planning

Preparing for this assessment calls for sound planning. A strong score can take you far, just as thoughtful planning can lead to success in life. There is no need to study endlessly and memorize vocabulary haphazardly. Build a solid plan and carry it out.

5. Practical application

The exam forces us to think critically and utilize what we studied during our school years. In daily life, too, we must put our learning into practice, otherwise, stagnant knowledge simply rots within us. Are we actively applying our everyday life lessons? It is worth considering. Unused skills may deteriorate, causing you to lose faith in expertise that once felt automatic.

6. Refraining from assumptions

The test frequently catches us out if we rely on incorrect assumptions. We need to stay vigilant and avoid taking things for granted. Does this not hold true for our personal lives as well? How frequently do we jump to conclusions about individuals or circumstances, only to discover the reality is entirely different? We view the world through tinted spectacles. If the lenses are green, the surroundings appear green. Nevertheless, the exam teaches us to avoid making assumptions so we can perceive reality as it truly is.

Ankur Rupani

IIT and UMCP (USA) alumnus, 331/340

GRE Trainer, Senior Counselor & Life coach