Are you staring down the barrel of the bar exam with a nagging voice in your head, asking if cramming can really save the day? Spoiler alert: Yes, it can. But how can you cram effectively without sabotaging your efforts? there's a right way to do it.
If you’re a chronic procrastinator, there's a method to it, even if you don’t fully realize it. Procrastination often forces you to cram, and while it’s not ideal, it can be a strategic way to tackle mindset blocks. Let's talk about how to do it right and avoid common pitfalls.
Procrastination: Not Just Laziness
Procrastination is more than just putting things off. It’s a way to avoid the blame if things don’t go as planned. For example, one of my Bar Prep Connect members used procrastination as a shield. By cramming, she gave herself an out – if she failed, she could always say she didn’t have enough time to study. This tactic also helped her end the cycle of perfectionism because, with limited time, she couldn’t do more than what was possible.
The Big Picture Problem
Seeing the bar exam as one massive task can be overwhelming, especially if you set high standards for yourself. It’s like facing a military boot camp for every single section of the exam. Procrastination simplifies this by compressing the overwhelming workload into a more manageable last-minute rush.
Why Cramming Sometimes Works
Cramming is fueled by adrenaline and fight-or-flight hormones. These hormones can keep you hyper-focused and alert, which is beneficial in short bursts. However, if you’re cramming for six weeks straight, this rush isn’t sustainable. You’ll likely burn out before you reach the finish line.
The Downside of Cramming
The adrenaline rush that helps you cram also diverts blood away from the front part of your brain, where learning and retention happen. This means that while you might be focused, your brain isn’t in the best state to absorb and retain information. You’ll either over-study and exhaust yourself or need to take breaks that disrupt your focus.
Long-Term Memory Matters
The bar exam covers a vast amount of information best stored in long-term memory. The most effective way to do this is through time-spaced repetition. This method, which we teach at Bar Exam Ready, helps you systematically review and retain information over time, ensuring it sticks when you need it most.
The Real Issue: Mindset Blocks
If procrastination is your default mode, it’s essential to address the underlying mindset blocks. Perfectionism, fear of failure, and the high standards you set for yourself can all contribute to delaying your start. Recognizing these patterns is the first step toward overcoming them.
Get the Support You Need
We offer resources to help you create an effective, streamlined bar prep schedule, overcome mindset blocks, and provide the support and accountability you need to stay on track. Don’t wait until the last minute to start studying. Check our free resources and schedule a call with me for a free consultation. Let's find the best path forward for you.