1. Real Talk
Many students who don’t pass their exam become angry. But not with themselves-- they search for someone or something to blame for their setback, and overlook the real reasons that they didn’t pass: not sticking with a study schedule, skipping overly complex topics too many times, and of course, procrastinating. If you feel this anger beginning to bubble at any point, turn off the heat. Don’t let yourself get wrapped up in your emotions. Take a moment to calmly and rationally analyze your study habits, and try to figure out what went wrong in the study process. Most importantly, don’t give up!

2. Let Your Conscience Guide You
One student told us that they were the only one to not pass FAR amongst their coworkers. They were disappointed, but also furious with their peers. One of the best pieces of advice that we can offer you, both in this arduous study process and in life, is to avoid trying to get even with anyone. This will only end up hurting you. Channel your frustration and any jealousy you may be experiencing into fierce motivation towards your next part of the CPA Exam. You know that you can do it.

3. Try, Try Again
Thomas Edison, one of America’s greatest inventors, conducted countless experiments that ended up being scrapped. What made him such a notable American figure is that Edison never viewed a failed experiment as a waste. He recorded all of his findings, both good and bad, and derived value from each of his experiments’ outcomes. In other words, Edison’s relentless perseverance as a scientist served as a catalyst to his success!

In the words of Thomas Edison, “Genius is 1% inspiration, and 99% perspiration.” So if you’ve fallen off the horse, accept it, dust yourself off, and hop right back on. You are simply that much more equipped to pass on the second time around. You’ll have your celebratory status update soon enough. 

Good luck to you!