Preparing for my professional exam was one of those journeys that looked simple from the outside but felt like a silent storm on the inside. I don’t think anyone really talks enough about how draining and stressful it can be, mentally, emotionally, and even physically. There were days I woke up with confidence and energy, ready to conquer every page. And there were days I sat staring at my books, feeling like nothing was entering, like my mind had clocked out and left me alone with the pressure.
Honestly, there was a point where giving up felt like the easiest option. Not because I wasn’t smart enough. Not because I wasn’t capable. But because the weight of expectations was becoming too heavy, I was honestly tired. Most times I'd just sit and question myself, I'll cry, but I still tried again. And sometimes, even trying felt like it was not working.
But the beautiful thing about those moments was that they made me see a version of me I didn't know existed. When I felt like giving up, I was reminded of why I started, and something in me will just whisper “just take one more bold step” In all of these, I realized that growth doesn’t always look like constant progress. Sometimes it looks like taking a break, the other times it looks like failing and starting over or it looks like whispering “I will try again tomorrow” even with tired eyes and a heavy heart. The beauty of it all lies in these, and that is still strength.
When things got overwhelming, I reminded myself of why I started. I reminded myself of the dreams, the sacrifices, the late nights, and the prayers that went into this path. I reminded myself that temporary frustration shouldn’t kill a permanent goal. Little by little I just kept pushing, ‘cos giving up is never an option anyway.
And here I am, not perfect, not without scars, but still standing. Still moving forward. Still becoming. Even at this point that the weight of what life's throwing at me still feels so heavy.
So you know, this post is not just about my struggle. It’s about anyone who feels like they’re drowning in expectations or stuck in a phase that feels too heavy to carry. It’s about anyone preparing for an exam, chasing a dream, or trying to rebuild their life. It’s for you who feel like quitting but still show up.
Let this be your reminder to you that, you're allowed to feel tired, you're allowed to pause, you're allowed to cry. But don’t give up. Your future self is already thanking you for holding on today.
Sometimes, strength is not loud or dramatic. It is quiet, steady, and persistent. And that's what keeps us going in times we feel so overwhelmed.
Whenever you feel like stopping, remember how far you’ve come. Remember that even small progress is still progress. And remember that the same fire that made you start is still burning inside you, and even if you decide to give up, starting over isn't as easy as it may seem.Just keep going. You’re closer than you think.
