RULE 21
Stress is optional
Here’s a Rule I learnt from my son when he was sitting his GCSE exams at school aged 16, and for which I am extremely grateful. This particular son is a very laid-back character, not overly inclined towards effort if he can see a less effortful approach. He would describe this as economical. (I have in the past come up with other descriptions.) Either way, the effect of this was that he approached his exams in a calm, relaxed fashion, without anxiety. He told me, ‘I just don’t understand why everyone else gets stressed about exams. Exams are bad enough already, and getting stressed only makes it worse. So why bother?’
I patiently pointed out to him that not everyone was born as chilled and easy going as him. People ...
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