Scared of Math?
Although mathematics tends to be the subject that generates the most fear among students, learning math doesn’t have to be scary! Many people, unfortunately, have spent countless hours staring at their math book only to fail tests and even courses. A lot of students have felt that they are “bad at math” so much that math has become a monster to them. They fear it just because it’s math. They run from things they actually know how to do, blocking their own thinking. They pull the covers over their head and refuse to get out of bed because a mysterious equation is under there.
Maybe you say, “I don’t need math.”
Technically, this is probably true. Avoiding math does not prevent your ability to survive, just like avoiding the internet wouldn’t. Do you really want to choose to handcuff yourself like that? You may be surprised at the amount of math necessary for success in a wide variety of careers such as Pharmacist, Elementary Teaching, Entrepreneur, Manager, and many more. Mathematics also helps you day-to-day to make informed political decisions, to understand basic finance, to grasp legal matters—in general, to have a greater comprehension of quantifiable concepts you come across in your daily life.
Maybe you think, "I’m not good at math."
But this judgment of your abilities is unreasonably harsh. I have a Ph.D. in math, and I could say the same thing when comparing myself to fellow students and courses I’ve had over the years. While we can appreciate your frustration, we don’t buy that you are “bad at math.” You have some skills in math. Of course you also have some weaknesses as everyone does. Thinking you are not good sets an expectation to fail. Given that you are even trying to learn mathematics, clearly you believe you can do it. We believe the same thing about you too.
