A little activity that may help reduce anxiety for our lovely student members!

Exercise: Writing a caring note

1. Pick one task you’re struggling to start or finish. Be specific.

2. Think of someone you genuinely care about — a close friend or loved one.

3. Imagine they are stuck with this same task.

4. Keeping that image in mind, write a short, caring note to help them take the next step.

5. Then read the note to yourself — on paper, on your phone, or out loud in front of a mirror.
   (You can also send it to yourself as a message.)

What makes this work (and where people mess it up)

• You’re not motivating yourself

• You’re not arguing with yourself

• You’re borrowing your natural care and redirecting it inward

The note should sound kind and practical, not inspirational.