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Some psychological theories suggest that bracing should help. For example, "decision affect theory" proposes that how we feel about a situation is determined partly by comparing what actually happened with what could have happened. Based on this, people should be happy when an event goes beyond their expectations, and disappointed when an event falls behind. Therefore, by anticipating the worst, one can safeguard themselves against future disappointment, as any result is likely to surpass their expectations.

Other psychological theories, nevertheless, undermine the idea that bracing will be helpful. It has been theorized and scientifically established that expectations can powerfully influence reality. There are two key ways that expectations can shape reality.

First, people may behave in ways that fit with their expectations. If you expect to fail an upcoming test or interview, then you might not invest efforts in preparation, which in turn reduces your chances of doing well. Second, people may interpret a situation in line with their expectations. Imagine you believe you are insufficiently qualified for a job you've applied for. During the job interview, you're likely to interpret blank expressions from the interviewer in line with this belief, which could negatively affect your performance. In fact, the interviewer did not want to give anything away.

Drawing together the scientific studies, it seems that expecting the worst is anything but a wise way to prepare for upcoming news or results. It might be more sensible to hold positive expectations than to brace for the worst.

Then high school began. All of a sudden, I was no longer at the top of my class. Teachers didn't look to me for the correct answer. My papers were filled with corrections, not praise. To put it simply, all the straight-As on my report card were quickly disappearing.

My parents' concern grew — they began to search for tutors and would constantly ask me as if they were trying to find out what was wrong with me. My concern grew too — the pressure to live up to their expectations only became greater and I found myself constantly anxious, and worrying about school.

Last week, watching Simone Biles pull out of the Olympics reminded me of this feeling. Simone Biles: the GOAT (Greatest of All Time). If there was any one person we knew we could depend on to win gold in her event, it was Simone. But that kind of pressure is unbearable. Imagine having to practically carry the Olympics on your back because all of the United States feels as though they can rely on you. However, unlike me and my freshman-year identity crisis, Simone recognized the pressure she was under. She had the bravery and self-reflective skills to be able to realize that the pressure of perfection was too much for her to handle.

Simone Biles has taught me a very important lesson: to be the greatest person of all time, mental health must come first. Instead of getting down on myself for not performing the way I wanted to, I need to take a note from Simone and be kind to myself, taking a break and asking for help when necessary. Taking care of yourself and your mental health is nothing to be ashamed of. After all, if GOAT can do it, so can we!

—______ it is not your style, that doesn't mean it is bad.