College is a stressful time. Balancing classwork and a social life can be incredibly difficult and many find it difficult to adjust. Once you pick up the pace in college, it is easy to lose your confidence along the way. Struggling with classwork, making friends, and not having enough free time can be problematic. You begin to realize that you aren’t doing as well academically as you should be and your confidence begins to sink.

Here are a few ways to boost your academic confidence during college.

1. Find the problem.

Are you struggling in chemistry? Doing bad on tests? Finding the reason behind your lack of confidence is the key to gaining confidence. Once you figure it out, it’ll be a lot easier to fix the problem.

2. Make a list of your skills.

Even if you aren’t good in some academic subjects, that doesn’t mean you’re bad in all of them. Make a list of all of the things you are good at. Whether you are good at drawing, writing, or solving equations, writing down these skills will remind you of the things you’re good at. There’s no better way to boost your confidence than to remind yourself of what you’re good at.

3. Cut the negativity.

Even if you’re doing poorly in class, it is not the end of the world. Being negative and talking bad about yourself will not help you or anyone around you. Try having positive thoughts instead. For example, if you failed a test, try thinking about what you did well and how to improve for the next test.

4. Ask for help.

No matter what the problem, you should always feel comfortable asking for help. If you need help in chemistry, try finding someone to help you. If you aren’t doing well on your tests, try reaching out to people and form study groups. Asking for help does not hurt you in any way and will only benefit you in the future.

5. Prioritize.

If you’re struggling more in a certain class, make sure to set apart some extra study time. If you find yourself watching Netflix more often than you’re studying, then make changes. Spend less time going out, and more time working on what you're struggling with.

6. Destress.

Stressing out about not being confident will make you lack confidence. Take some time to do something you enjoy. Go for a swim, go to the gym, or watch a movie with some friends. No matter what activity you choose, make sure to take some time to yourself and leave your stress behind. This will give you time to reevaluate.

At the end of the day, you need to remember that whatever happens in your classes does not necessarily define you. If you’re struggling in class, it does not in any way mean that you are not intelligent. Humans were meant to struggle but once you cross that bridge, you will be happy you lived it. Academic confidence is the key to doing well in school. If you are confident in yourself, you can achieve anything.