Written by: Kaidyn Jordan
Position, Member Since: Academic Chair, Joined Fall 2022
Major & Track: Biology, Pre-Med
Current Year: 2nd Year
Everyone says not to compare yourself, but it’s hard when everyone around you is doing amazing things. During my freshman year, I struggled with comparison and always felt like I was behind. However, after talking to some friends at college and in medical school, I discovered that the feeling is very common. This realization motivated me to find ways to minimize negative thoughts and enjoy my time at UF. Today, I’m excited to share five tips to help you overcome self-comparison and embrace self-confidence.
1. Focus on YOU
There’s nothing you can do about others’ progress, so instead learn from them and focus on improving yourself. Instead of seeking external validation, prioritize personal growth and adopt a growth mindset. What can you learn from your experiences to make you a more well-rounded, remarkable individual? Remember, your journey is unique, and progress is progress, no matter how small.
2. Set realistic goals
Set goals and work towards them. To accomplish this, try using SMART: specific, measurable, achievable, relevant, and time-based. For instance, I wanted to consistently attend a church in Gainesville every Sunday by the end of my first semester…and I did! This was a goal of mine
outside of medicine that fulfilled the SMART criteria. I encourage you guys to do the same! 3. Practice gratitude
I recently started a “Happiness Journal” where I write down one thing that made me happy each day. This practice of mindfulness and reflection has shifted my perspective, enabling me to fully appreciate my time at UF, even when I’ve had terrible days. Furthermore, celebrate your achievements! Take time to acknowledge your successes, no matter how small. Incorporating these habits into your daily life helps cultivate a mindset of gratitude and resilience.
4. Seek support & perspectives
Surround yourself with supportive peers, mentors, and advisors. uAWMA has an undergraduate mentorship program that I really benefited from during my freshman year. Also, try finding friends outside of medicine. Although the majority of my friends are pre-med, I enjoy the conversations I have with my non-medical friends about books, food, and flower arrangements.
5. Relax!
Enjoy your time at UF! Have fun experiences and stories to tell your friends and family. Remember, you have a life outside of medicine, and no grade, no extracurricular, and no graduate school can take that away from you. Besides, learning to enjoy your college experience helps minimize burnout and improve your mental health. When I feel tired or overwhelmed, I like to read or doodle. (Look at this flower I made in my free time!) So, find
hobbies and activities that you enjoy and pursue them. As always, if you ever need help, reach out to your uAMWA executive board. We’re always here for you!
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