A Changed Mindset and A Change Approach: The ASWB Exam does not define Me

Test taking is not something that comes easy for me.  In fact, I down right dread it.  When I see multiple choice questions, instantly I panic.  So yes, you guessed it, the ASWB Licensing Exam was no different for me.  Upon learning about the licensing exam, and all that it entailed, fear and anxiety over took me. I asked myself, “How am I suppose to take a test to show the ASWB that I am a competent Social Worker? What would happen if I fail this test? How will I ever get ahead, if I don’t have the credential to show that I have the Knowledge, Skills, and Ability to perform the duties of a competent Social Worker.”  These questions and many more, bombarded my mind.  So, in order for me to make peace with it all, I had to research and explore for myself, how best to approach this exam, so that I could achieve my goal and earn the license that says, I have Mastered the core competency Skills needed to be a competent Social Worker.

Before I took my ASWB exam, I thought nothing of it.  I had no fears or anxiety in regards to taking the exam.  I honestly believed that I was capable of passing my exam, simply because, “I’ve been practicing as a social worker for many years.”  Well, to my surprise the ASWB Licensing Exam was not that simple. I quickly learned that the ASWB was not interested in how well I practiced as a social worker, rather they were interested in knowing if I had the knowledge and Competency Skills, that are at the foundation of who we are as social workers.  

Being in practice for many years, some things got away from me. What the ASWB Licensing Exam did for me, was challenged me to a level of remembering why we practice as we do, and it re-enforced and strengthened my critical thinking skills.  Once I changed my mindset and approach to taking the ASWB Licensing Exam, taking the test  became something other than just trying to pass it.  It became a way for me to solidify who I am as a social worker and to establish myself as professionally, competent in the field.

Simply put, in my opinion, changing my mindset towards taking the exam is what helped me achieve my goal.  Im sharing this with the intent of helping you develop a new way of approaching the Licensing Exam.  Too many people fail the exam because of the pressure to pass it, that we place upon ourselves. Yes, you are preparing to earn a license that will show that you have master the (KSAs) Knowledge, Skills, and Ability to perform the functions of a competent (Clinical) Social Worker, but it does not define who you are as a professional.  

So as you prepare to study for and take your exam, remember, YOU ARE COMPETENT and you’re a great Social Worker. You practice these skills daily and many people lives are changed as a result of the work you do daily.  Learn test taking strategies, and apply it with the skills and knowledge that you have.  Remember the Social work process to help you navigate through questions.  Find a reputable study program to assist in your learning process and you are good to go.  There was a time when I thought that I would never be able to pass this exam, but after changing my mindset, my will and ability to achieve my goals change to.  Good luck and happy studying.  Now Go Get What Yours!!!!.