Addressing the New Emotions in "Inside Out 2" for Effective Bar Exam Preparation
"Inside Out 2Links to an external site." opens in theaters throughout the U.S. today.
The Pixar-animated movie continues the story of the original "Inside Out" movie by exploring the evolving emotional landscape of Riley as she navigates the complexities of her teenage years.
"Inside Out 2" brings new emotions into the spotlight: Envy, Ennui, Embarrassment, and Anxiety. These emotions, while part of the human experience, can significantly impact the bar preparation journey if not managed properly.
Here's how these emotions—Envy, Ennui, Embarrassment, and Anxiety—might affect bar prep, along with suggestions on what law students and bar exam takers can do to transform them into strengths.
💚 Envy
Envy can arise when comparing oneself to peers who may seem more prepared or confident. This comparison can distract from personal progress and increase stress.
Focus on personal growth rather than comparison. Set personal goals and celebrate individual achievements, no matter how small. Remember, the bar exam is not a competition against others but a test of your own competence.
🥱 Ennui
Ennui, or a feeling of boredom and dissatisfaction, can occur during the grueling months of bar prep, leading to a lack of motivation and engagement with the material.
Mix up your study routine with different methods like group study sessions, interactive practice tests, or teaching the material to others. These can reignite interest and improve retention. Schedule regular breaks and leisure activities to keep your mind fresh
😳 Embarrassment
Embarrassment often comes from the fear of not knowing answers in front of peers or mentors, potentially leading to a reluctance in seeking help or participating in study groups.
Normalize the learning process, which includes making mistakes. Engage actively in study groups where everyone benefits from shared learning. Remember, everyone is in the same boat, and every question you ask is likely helping someone else too.
😰 Anxiety
Anxiety is perhaps the most direct emotion affecting bar takers, often exacerbating stress and leading to burnout or even avoidance.
Implement stress management techniques such as mindfulness, meditation, or regular physical activity. Break down large tasks into manageable steps to avoid feeling overwhelmed. Don’t hesitate to seek professional help if anxiety becomes too much to handle alone.
Here are some of my previous blog posts on testing anxiety:
Like the characters in “Inside Out 2,” law students and bar exam takers navigating bar prep must understand and manage their emotions. Self-awareness and proactive emotional management can make a significant difference in your bar exam preparation. Remember, successful bar prep is not only about hard work but also about smart work, which includes taking care of your emotional and mental health.
