When talking about what helped them to be successful on the bar exam, people often discuss how long they studied, all of the different materials they used, the courses they've taken, etc. Often overlooked is the crucial importance of thinking positively and believing in oneself – every single day. No matter how much you study for the bar exam, if you don't believe that you can pass the bar and you are dealing with self-doubt and negativity, you have even greater obstacles to overcome. Your negative attitude and second guessing yourself can be the difference between your racking those needed extra points that can cause you to pass the exam or just miss the score you need.

Here are a few tips to help you maintain a positive mindset throughout the stressful bar exam study period:

1. Eliminate negative people and circumstances from you life, if possible. If you have people calling you inviting you to go out to clubs and parties when they know you have to study, or those who want to call and burden you with their problems at a time when you have to stay focused, distance yourself from them. If negative circumstances such as staying at home with parents or with an inconsiderate roommate will bring you down, make some changes – at least until the bar exam is over. It's only a few months that make a difference in your ability to earn your license. They might be offended but stress to them that it's you, not them. They'll get over it.


2. Choose key quotes and sayings that make you feel empowered. Google some famous quotes and use those that apply. Think of those sayings that have made a personal difference to you. Type out scriptures or any success principles or other thoughts that help you to feel uplifted and put things in perspective. Temporarily and strategically place them around your house, room, or apartment – wherever they are highly visible and are a reminder of what you are capable of accomplishing. Consider going to a discount store and getting some inexpensive document frames to frame them.


3. Choose a positive "battle" song that can be your theme song for the marathon race ahead. For instance, think about the theme songs for famous movies such as "Eye of the Tiger" by Survivor for Rocky III or "What a Feeling" by Irene Cara for Flashdance, or even the beautiful instrumental for "Chariots of Fire" by Vangelis. Other good songs are "Don't Stop Believing" by Journey, "Survivor" by Destiny's Child, "I Believe" by American Idol winner Fantasia Barrino, or even the disco classic "Ain't No Stopping Us Now" by McFadden and Whitehead, etc. Choose a song or a few different inspirational and motivational songs which can get you pumped up and feeling like you can conquer the world. Listen to this song or these songs every day before getting started with your daily study routine. Remember that there is struggle in these films but there usually is a happy ending – and you too will battle through the exam and come out a victor.


4. Create a list of positive affirmations that you verbally recite at least once a day. For instance,

• I will pass the bar exam.
  
• I cannot be defeated.
  
• I am doing every possible practice question that has been published.
  
• I am reading and comprehending all of the assigned reading.
  
• I have read and re-read all of the condensed outlines.
  
• I am committing key Black letter law to memory.
  
• I am writing out every past and potential essay question.
  
• I am practicing applying IRAC clearly and correctly.
  
• Nothing can stand in the way of my becoming a lawyer except me.