3. Academics
"The 'Academics' card is a gentle reminder of how our experiences with academics as children shape us as adults. For some, the struggles faced in the academic realm left lasting imprints, creating feelings of inadequacy or self-doubt. It serves as a compassionate reminder that our worth goes beyond grades or academic achievements.
For adults who struggled academically as children, it can be difficult to find the motivation to continue your education or pursue new goals. This card indicates that you may feel like you are incapable or smart enough, which can lead to self-doubt and even shame. However, it is important to remember that your intelligence and abilities are not fixed. You can learn and grow at any age; it is never too late to start again. With patience and determination, you can overcome any academic struggles from your childhood and reach your full potential. Believe in yourself and know that you are capable of great things.
Journal Prompts:
-What was the most challenging part of academics for you?
​
-How did you feel when you struggled academically?
​
-What would happen if I let myself be vulnerable and share my story? How might that help me heal?
​
-What am I most proud of about myself? What do I appreciate most about myself?
​
-What does my future look like if I accept and love myself, regardless of my past academic struggles?
On the other hand, this card also sheds light on the impact of being conditioned into perfectionism. Growing up with constant pressure to excel academically can leave deep-rooted beliefs that success is only measured by flawless performance. The 'Academics' card encourages us to challenge these beliefs and embrace our unique strengths and talents, regardless of any past academic challenges.
For adults who were conditioned to be a perfectionist as a child, it can be difficult to let go of that perfectionism as an adult. This card indicates that you may feel like you need to be perfect at everything you do, which can lead to anxiety and self-criticism. However, it is important to remember that perfection is not realistic or achievable. No one is perfect, and that's okay. Allow yourself to be imperfect and to make mistakes. Embrace the freedom and joy that come with not having to be perfect all the time.
Journal Prompts:
What was I told about perfection when I was a child? How did those messages make me feel?
​
What were the expectations placed on me? How did I feel when I wasn't able to meet those expectations?
​
How does the idea of perfection affect me now? What would it be like to let go of the idea of perfection and accept myself as I am?
​
What would I gain by letting go of the pressure to be perfect?
​
What would happen if I embraced my flaws and imperfections?
Ultimately, this card guides us toward nurturing our inner child by emphasizing self-compassion, celebrating personal growth, and finding joy in learning beyond traditional academic settings. Remember, the pursuit of knowledge and personal growth is a lifelong journey, and we are capable of achieving greatness in our unique ways.
Affirmations:
“I release the belief that my worth is tied to academic achievements.”
“I embrace my unique strengths and talents beyond traditional measures of success.”
“ I acknowledge that learning is a lifelong journey, and I celebrate my personal growth.”
“I choose to define success on my terms, focusing on personal growth and fulfillment.”
“I release the need for perfection and embrace the beauty of learning from mistakes.”
Remember, affirmations are powerful tools to reprogram our mindset and instill positive beliefs. Feel free to adapt these affirmations to resonate with your personal experiences and goals.