In this article (and video above), I talk with Sean Spromberg, PE, a licensed professional engineer and team leader at MSA Professional Services, who shares a remarkable philosophy on achieving the right mindset to alleviate the immense stress associated with PE Exam preparation.
Here Are Some Key Points Discussed in This Episode:
- The photograph taken during an Apollo mission, showing the Earth surrounded by vast emptiness, highlights the paradox of our existence. While the Earth and everything on it may be precious, they are also ultimately insignificant in the universe’s grand scheme. This perspective allows us to approach our endeavors with dedication and care, giving our best effort but recognizing that the outcome is not all-encompassing. By putting space around our actions and not getting overly stressed, we can prioritize our well-being and maintain a healthy perspective on life’s challenges.
- Maintaining a positive mindset and perspective is crucial when facing challenging exams or situations in our careers. Putting excessive pressure on ourselves can hinder our performance and increase stress levels. It’s important to remember that these moments are just a small part of our overall career journey and that one test does not define our worth or abilities. Adopting a more relaxed approach and focusing on long-term goals can alleviate stress, refocus, and improve our chances of success.
- Managing your energy, rather than just your time, is crucial in high-stress situations like exams. While knowledge is important, paying attention to your energy levels and taking care of yourself is equally vital. Avoid becoming overly attached to the results and remember that your worth is not determined solely by your performance. Additionally, focusing on your breath can help calm your mind and alleviate stress during intense moments, enabling you to perform better.
- In stressful situations, such as exams, managing your stress levels and taking breaks are crucial for maintaining a healthy mindset. Taking deep breaths and practicing short meditations can help slow down your heartbeat and bring a sense of calmness to your mind.
- Engaging in physical activities or spending time with loved ones can also provide a refreshing break, making your study time more effective. Rather than solely focusing on the number of hours you study, it’s crucial to create a balanced schedule that incorporates various forms of interaction and relaxation, leading to better overall results.
About Sean Spromberg, P.E.
Sean has more than 20 years of industry experience managing transportation, structures, municipal, and site civil engineering design projects. He leads client relations, design, scheduling, and public involvement throughout all aspects of project development. Sean has worked in the public, private, and construction sectors, affording him a distinct advantage in understanding and providing civil engineering services that ensure all aspects of a project are thoroughly encompassed.
Sources
MSA Professional Services
TEPM 018: Self-Reflection and Continuous Improvement Strategies for Engineering Leaders
Connect with Sean Spromberg, P.E., on LinkedIn
This Episode Is Brought to You by PPI
PPI
has helped engineers achieve their licensing goals since 1975. Passing the FE and PE exams can open doors to career advancement and new opportunities. Check out PPI’s wide range of prep options, including Live Online courses, OnDemand courses, and digital study tools to help prepare you to pass your licensing exam here.
I hope you found this article helpful. In upcoming articles, I will solve some more PE exam practice problems and answer other questions from our subscribers. Pass the PE Exam videos will publish weekly, so be sure to click the subscribe button so you don’t miss something that could make a substantial difference in your exam result.
Lastly, I encourage you to ask questions in the comments of this video or on this page, and I’ll read and respond to them in future videos. So, if there’s a specific topic you want me to cover or answer, we have you covered.
I’ll see you next week … on Pass the PE Exam.
Anthony Fasano, P.E.
Engineering Management Institute
Author of Engineer Your Own Success
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