[D]

TL:DR version … Anyone experience test anxiety and have advice on how to combat it?

The past 2 weeks I’ve been dealing w/some major test anxiety. In a nutshell, from 2012-2014 I tried taking this test. After MANY failed attempts and some lost credits, I took a 1 yr break. Fast fwd to 2016… I’ve passed AUD in Jan, BEC in May, however I failed REG in Aug.

Now I’m 2 weeks out from my REG retake (Oct 23rd), and I’m feeling some extreme anxiety (shortness of breath, even not being able to focus on the studying, and just overall discouragement). I’m trending at about 60% with studying right now, which makes me more nervous being 2 weeks out.

To add to that, I’ve been approached with some potential job changes/opportunities, but I’m hesitant to accept because I want to pass the CPA first. However I’m afraid if I turn these opportunities down, and also don’t pass the CPA in 4Q, I’ll look like a fool and feel like one… and potentially let some opportunities pass me by.

Anyway, anyone experience test anxiety and have recommendations on combating it? I feel silly for having to deal with this at age 30 and no kids…

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AUD - 74, 77! (1/2016)
BEC - 80! (5/2016)
REG - tbd (8/2016)
FAR - tbd

Study materials: NINJA MCQ/Audio/Notes

"I can do ALL things through Christ who strengthens me!"
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[RoadWarrior]

I totally get it. Same age as you, coming up on test expiration soon and put a new job offer on the backburner. I am retaking FAR on Weds and not feeling great about it. Have spent the past 2 months studying full time so it will be brutally humiliating not to mention career-damaging to fail yet again. Literally losing hair and sanity over it. I have no advice for you, but you are not alone.

B - 85 (Aug '15)
A - ?? (Jan '16)
R - ?? (Oct '15)
F - ?? (If it fits I sits)

Roger + Ninja MCQ

[brainfried75]

Hi @TXCPAGAL12 – I’m the same way. Same age bracket and struggled with this exam for over 5 years now. I think for me, personally, the struggle with anxiety was due to not putting in the required time and having the discipline. I kept making excuses instead of hunkering down. I’m a yes person, so I would never say no to anyone. These things obviously didn’t help at all. I’ve had many failures when it comes to this exam (trust me). It’s very eye opening when you sit and think about those you don’t want to let down (your family, those who have supported you). I don’t know if you have ever considered hypnosis, but that’s a great way to just envision a positive outcome. It helped me in my journey but requires consistency in practice. I also would encourage you to try certain breathing techniques to help you relax.

[D]

@brainfried – I can relate in being a “yes” person, and thats something I've been working on too. I have until next Saturday to study, so I'm trying my hardest to study some at work, and obviously every night after work. Haven't tried hypnosis but I actually heard that it works for some!! Thanks for your input and best of luck with your upcoming tests!!

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AUD - 74, 77! (1/2016)
BEC - 80! (5/2016)
REG - tbd (8/2016)
FAR - tbd

Study materials: NINJA MCQ/Audio/Notes

"I can do ALL things through Christ who strengthens me!"
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[D]

@RoadWarrior – glad to know I'm not alone, but sorry you're having to deal with it too. Best of luck with your test on Wednesday!!

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AUD - 74, 77! (1/2016)
BEC - 80! (5/2016)
REG - tbd (8/2016)
FAR - tbd

Study materials: NINJA MCQ/Audio/Notes

"I can do ALL things through Christ who strengthens me!"
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[REG-FTW86]

What really helped me was not studying Friday nights. I started using that as my off time with friends. I also started hitting the driving range with my buddy to get out of the house. I actually went to the driving range the morning of my last REG test. I did too much sitting around and thinking about it. You need to make sure you take care of you. Make sure you create “me” time. Good luck!

Regulation For The Win!

FAR 57, 62, 77
BEC 70,77
AUD 54,78
REG 66, 62, 7/29

FAR.BEC.AUD.AUD.BEC.FAR.FAR.REG.REG

Roger CPA Review / Ninja MCQ Supplement

Our greatest weakness lies in giving up. The most certain way to succeed is always to try just one more time - Thomas Edison

[D]

Thanks @REG-FTW86! You have some great points and I do try to make “me” time, however I don't think its truly “me” time, but instead its “catch up on everything around the house and then some” time.. so I need to do something that is relaxing for the brain.

Any strategy/tips for passing REG since I see you scored an 80?! 🙂

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AUD - 74, 77! (1/2016)
BEC - 80! (5/2016)
REG - tbd (8/2016)
FAR - tbd

Study materials: NINJA MCQ/Audio/Notes

"I can do ALL things through Christ who strengthens me!"
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[Anonymous]

There are lots of free hypnosis on YouTube, some just for test anxiety. Give it a try, it can't hurt.
I recommend yoga too.

[Author]

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