Your Grades Don't Define You

 This past week reality bit me in the butt, seriously.  I have a major tendency to procrastinate, which I'm sure we're all a victim of, and it caught up to me big time.  It started on Monday when I got two grades back from classes with a professor who is not the nicest grader.  The first was a midterm that I know I should have studied harder for, but at the time I felt ready for it, I didn't think I'd have a problem doing well.  The grade I got wasn't bad but I have high expectations for myself when it comes to grades so I was disappointed.   The paper I got back was worse than I was expecting.  I had done my best to meet the requirements, but apparently it wasn't enough.  If I'm being truthful here, I haven't been putting as much effort into these classes as I should be.  I do take responsibility for these grades wholeheartedly because how well you do all depends on how well you perform.  Lately, I haven't been working up to par and I have no excuses.  It is pure laziness.  
    What I did notice, however, was how harsh I am on myself.  When I get unexpected, less than satisfactory grades it truly ruins my mood.  I shut down.  Anything positive that I had been thinking before I saw the grade is completely shattered.  I put myself down so much that I second guess my abilities.  I don't feel good enough.
    Well, I'm going to put a stop to that, right now.  For me and anyone who's reading this, that feels like grades determine everything.  I'm here to say they don't.  Of course, I'm not belittling their importance because doing well is definitely something to strive towards.  But don't push yourself past your limit.  Do your very best and if you need tutoring do not, I repeat do not, hesitate to go to your school’s academic center or meet with your teacher outside of class.  Needing extra help is nothing to be ashamed of and it'll be beneficial to you in the long run.  
    Got yourself into a cycle of a lack of motivation and procrastination that affects your grades like me? Don't ever think because you didn't do well that you're a bad student.  That you're not worthy because some letter determines your future.  You are beautiful, smart, and full of potential.  That letter written in red ink says nothing about who you are or what you have the ability to achieve.  Think of this as a learning experience.  If you didn't get bad grades to begin with you wouldn't have heights to reach later on.  I can't tell you how proud of yourself you will be when you finally get the grade you know you are capable of earning.  You are not the grades you get. They don't determine your value. You are more.   

You are fearfully and wonderfully made,
Maire