Every student—no matter how smart or determined—will face tough moments. Life doesn’t always offer a smooth path, and it rarely pauses when you need it to. Whether you’re chasing a big dream or just trying to figure out your next step, challenges are part of the journey.

These challenges can take many forms: exam stress, family expectations, financial struggles, the pain of losing someone, or simply feeling lost in the middle of it all. Sometimes they hit hard and fast. Other times, they creep in quietly and grow heavier over time. But one thing’s certain—they’ll come, and when they do, they can seriously affect your peace of mind.

In these moments, many push themselves harder, simply because they hope it’ll pass soon enough and quick. Others feel stuck. Some even start to think they’re not cut out for this. That’s not weakness — that’s being human.

But what if there’s another way?

Strength Isn’t Always the Answer

We’ve grown up believing that strength alone always leads to success. Yes, that’s partly true — but it’s only half the story. There are many other things that, when combined with strength, actually push you toward success. One of the most important is your mindset. The right mindset works alongside your strength. It turns it into courage, grit, and the drive to go after your goals.

That’s when you have to change how you think.

You’re not stuck because you’re weak — you’re stuck because you’re playing by someone else’s rules. The pressure, the situation, even the system itself is setting the terms. So the answer isn’t more strength. What you really need is a smarter way forward.

Change the Game

If the challenge is wearing you down, it may be an indication that you’re playing the wrong game. Maybe it’s time to analyze the rules — who made them and why.

You don’t have to solve every problem in the exact way everyone expects. That exam isn’t your identity. That grade doesn’t define your worth. That delay in your journey doesn’t mean it’s over.

Instead of fighting the storm head-on, concentrate on changing the direction. Better yet:

• Shift the pressure — take breaks with purpose, simplify your priorities, or talk it over with someone you trust.

• Use what you have — whether it’s creativity, patience, or humour, let your real strengths come out.

• Find another route — success does not only come about from a straight line. Take detours, or pause if need be. Reroute even, just don’t quit. Just like a game of chess, life is all strategy. You either bend its terms and conditions to your will, or it bends you.

Changing the terms means standing your ground differently — choosing your fight and leaning into your strength.

Turn Weakness Into Strategy

Hard times often tell you you’re too small. That you’re not enough. But that’s a lie designed to keep you in place.

Small can be smart. Quiet can be sharp. Unnoticed can be unstoppable.

If you’re not the loudest, be the clearest. If you’re not the fastest, be the most thoughtful. If you’re not the strongest, be the one who doesn’t give up.

That’s the logic of changing the terms of your situation.

Your Story Isn’t Over

Whatever you’re going through, this is not the end. It’s not even the middle. It’s just one part of a longer, richer story you’re still writing.

Don’t let hardship be the final word. Let it be the page where you turned the story around.

You don’t have to prove anything to the world. You only have to keep showing up, changing what you can, and walking forward one step at a time — on your own terms.

Make the Problem Irrelevant

Not every problem will disappear. But you can take away its power. You do this by refusing to let it define you.

You don’t have to be stronger than the challenge.

Just be smarter than its rules.

The next time things get tough — don’t back down. Strategize. Adapt. Lean into your strength. Change the terms.

Contact:

Editing & Narrative Direction: IBSU Communication & Creative Solutions Specialist

Disclaimer: This article was written to encourage IBSUniversity students who may be feeling overwhelmed. It is not a replacement for professional help. If you are struggling, please reach out to Student Services, your lecturer, or someone you trust. Support is always close by.