Being prepared is an important part of successful learning. What does it mean to be “prepared for learning”?
Prepared for learning means:

• Getting a good night’s sleep.
• Eating breakfast.
• Bring whatever materials you need for the class with you (e.g. books, pens, computer, PPE, etc.)
• Assignments are completed and ready to hand in or discuss.

Being prepared also means being mentally prepared. If someone comes to class upset and distracted by outside matters, their mind isn’t on learning. If you aren’t taking care of the points above, then you will be stressed out, and you can’t learn well if you are stressed.

Sometimes you cannot control the outside distractions and complications from weighing on your mind while you are trying to focus on learning. You can calm your mind and your body so that you are more ready to learn. Learning Activity 3 gives one easy and fast trick you can use before you go into class to help you be prepared to learn. (it also works great before job interviews or other situations that feel stressful).

Learning Activity 3: Superhero pose

Instructions

• Find a space where you are not distracted by others. (If you are in a classroom, spread out around the room and face a wall.)
• Stand with your feet shoulder width apart, hands on your hips, elbows out wide.
• Lift your chin. Drop your shoulders.
• Breathe deeply for 10 breaths, in through your nose, out through your mouth.

This activity lowers blood pressure, increases oxygen in your body, and helps you feel relaxed and more confident. It takes only minutes but can make the difference in your day. Even if you are already running late and are stressed – take the extra two minutes in the hall to do this for yourself. You will be more prepared to learn.

If you are interested in learning more about how power posing can boost your confidence, check out this TEDTalk video (20 minutes, 48 seconds).