Nasheen Wuisman explains how you can turn the negatives you are bound to encounter in your studies into positive outcomes.
Ioften hear candidates talking about how they’re struggling to progress through their CGMA study journey. I know that studying for your CGMA professional qualification can be demanding, but I’d like us to stop and consider the word ‘struggle’ in the context of working towards your goals.
Adding study into the mix of life can feel like a bind. Moments of feeling overwhelmed can feel more frequent, and cracks can start to show – but they don’t last. In fact, when those cracks begin to heal they make you stronger than before.
So, let’s change our mindset on the word ‘struggle’ and turn it into what it really is… it’s simply the moment right before you succeed.
Struggle leads to self-awareness
Many of life’s success stories come from moments of struggle. It shows you’re working hard for what you believe in. It shows you value the work and investment that’s needed to go into your study journey, and you’re ready to make the necessary efforts.
Life, however, is busy. As the days go by, we do more, we take on more responsibility in all aspects. The more we do, the more we start to feel a mental and physical fatigue and all of a sudden, we feel it – the struggle.
As a result, we tend to focus on what we’re not doing and what we’re not achieving, rather than recognising all the small successes we’ve had along the way.
Extra adversities aside, struggle shows you’re overcoming obstacles, facing challenges head on, and learning from setbacks. Yes, this can take its toll on your emotions, but just under that surface you’re one step closer to your goal. Even if you didn’t pass that last exam you now have more technical knowledge than you ever did before. And, if not, then you at least have more awareness of what you need to do to prepare for your next attempt.
Struggle leads to perseverance
With a little guidance and a few strategies, such as structured study habits, mindfulness, support networks and self-care – we can focus on that tenacity that led you to the decision to pursue your CGMA designation.
Let’s look at some of the ways candidates have described their struggles and ways to overcome them:
Time pressures: Juggling work, study and personal life. You need a plan. This will help you organise deadlines, prioritise tasks and identify what you need to make time for. It will help relieve your mental overload, as you no longer have to use your brain as your sole organiser.
Fear of failure: The stakes feel high. It shows how much this means to you, and that’s exactly what you need to focus on: your goal, and the difference it’s going to make to your life. Visualise your success, it will give you the determination to succeed.
Isolation: Studying independently or remotely can feel lonely. But there are simple, effective ways to mix things up. Following a CGMA support group on social media, where your peers are on the same journey, can be very fulfilling. It reminds you that you’re not alone, that your challenges are common and therefore to be expected. Others will support you and you can support them, which can be very uplifting.
Mental and physical fatigue: We’ve mentioned the sheer lack of time, leading to having to study when you are tired. The last thing we often make time for is self-care. This care can come from the smallest gestures. Sitting outside for a short while, reading an affirmation or an article that validates your emotions and allows you to see that you are doing a great job at life.
Struggle can bring success
Shifting your mindset around struggle can change how you perceive challenges. Stress isn’t always negative; it often signals growth and commitment. A moment of exhaustion or frustration doesn’t indicate defeat; rather, it’s evidence of hard work and effort. Self-doubt is normal, but persistence is what drives results.
Reaching out to peers, mentors, and professional networks can help alleviate the pressure. Connecting with fellow CGMA candidates and discussing common challenges is key. No one succeeds alone, and reaching out for help is a sign of strength.
Don’t be afraid to take longer breaks.
Giving your mind a break is just as important as studying itself. When your mind becomes overloaded your productivity declines and frustration rises. Take a walk, go to the gym, have a day out – just get out of your head and do something completely different. Taking time out can prevent burnout and allows for a fresh perspective, ensuring your studying remains effective rather than draining.
Never struggle alone
If life’s challenges do get too overwhelming and you need further support our global wellbeing support service is available to both our candidates and members. Don’t hesitate to reach out, help is always available.
Struggles don’t last forever. They shape you, strengthen you, and prepare you for the success that lies ahead. The moments before achievement often feel the hardest but they’re also the ones that define you the most.
Keep going. You’re closer than you think.
- Nasheen Wuisman, Senior Manager – Global Academic Progression at CIMA
