Helping someone have a mental victory
A couple weeks ago I posted a note about the mental difficulties that math students (and people in general) cause for themselves (see https://my.wealthyaffiliate.com/allynbeekman/blog/why-do-people-self-destruct-their-thought-processes).
Yesterday, I had a small victory helping a particular student.
The young lady I am speaking of is currently taking the lowest-level developmental math course at the community college where I tutor. She needs to finish this course plus another next-level course to get into the program she wants. Unfortunately, she was having one of those days where her mind just was not functioning with math, particularly solving an equation filled with fractions (I know, this sends shivers up some of your spines!).
I have worked with this particular student several times previously and, in general, she likes the way I explain things. Yesterday was tough, though. Her final exam is tomorrow but she was struggling with concepts that she had studied and worked with earlier this term.
She kept saying over and over, "I hate math" and "I hate this". It got to the point where a big tear streamed down her face. Then she was embarrassed.
I had been encouraging her, trying to find other ways to explain the concept and refresh her memory. When the tear appeared, I assured her that it was ok. I felt so sorry for her.
After the tears, however, I knew I needed to change the path she was on. So, I looked her in the eye and said, "You need to stop saying 'I hate this' and replace it with 'I am going to conquer this!' It will change your mental attitude."
Within a couple minutes, she changed her attitude and her brain started keying in on the concepts.
My friends, it's great that we talk in our blogs about the mental side of remaining positive, focusing on a goal, and having a winning attitude. This applies so much in our own lives but also enables us to help others when they are struggling, whether it be our children, our grandchildren, spouse, family members, or others we come in contact with.
Have a fantastic day!
Recent Comments
24
It is, isn't it Laura. I know my perspective gets out of whack once in a while, too. It's a lesson we keep learning over and over.
You're SO right. Many times it's in the mindset. I bet you're one of the best teachers......but I still hate fractions. LOL.
We all seem to have the same blog theme today. Must be one of those days.
https://my.wealthyaffiliate.com/sui-generis/blog/life-in-wa/
great post,
ultimately she needs to get to "I am good at math"
but even the first step of "I am going to conquer this" is moving in the right direction!
great work, thanks for sharing this small step and big victory!
all the best,
I would agree with you, except perhaps for the fact that she, like many others, doesn't want to be good at math. She is taking it as a requirement, not by choice. But, she does want to be a good student, so this is a step toward that.
State of mind has a huge impact on outcomes and it is a constant struggle (for me anyway) to stay positive but the payoff is worth the effort. Good on you for helping her through her rough patch.
As we read other's posts, we recognize that we all have to fight through the struggle to stay positive at times. It's those of us who do who will win in the long run. Thanks.
Strange how the defense mechanisms can take over, isn't it? They can render us helpless if allowed to go on.
See more comments
Inspiring mentorship!
Thanks Kevin!