What things are the best thing to eat (and avoid) before an exam?

I can't remember things or concentrate- what's wrong?

• I'm a klutzy person, VERY forgetful, unreliable and I get a lot of things wrong. I'm highly intelligent academically, with a lot of creative talents but when it comes to doing every day things I'm sort of useless and I think this frustrates people. I've worked very hard on improving over the years, I got so anxious about being late I now set multiple alarms, I've tried concentration exercises, organising things strictly by colour code and have set up all these things to help me stop screwing up. It is very hard to make friends in the workplace where I feel people become awkward with my mistakes even if they really like my personality. I eventually get so stressed and quiet at work I'm sure they don't like working with me anymore. It is also hard to live with friends because I become terrified about not doing my bit and forgetting to turn something off etc. I can become so easily distracted I can leave pans on and things like that or forget to do regular things. I think my real personality is very happy, outgoing and carefree but over the years I have been chased up on the things I was doing very wrong, that I just try to avoid being like I was, irresponsible. WHy is it so much effort for me to remember simple tasks? I'm not stupid and I have read so many books, seen psychiatrists and work on this problem everyday. If I forget ONE thing, like setting an alarm for myself to remember to turn off the stove---I just can't do it. What is wrong>?? I am a 24yr old female. Is this some kind of condition?> I eat well and get 8hrs sleep, very occassional drinks, no drugs, or cigarettes. People think I am a scattered mess having to do things just so! A break from routine equals disaster.

• Answer:

  Wow, this sounds much like me. I also try many coping mechanisms (to-do lists, alarms, signs/notes to remind myself to do stuff) to help my memory. I know the harder I am on myself for screwing up (again), the more uncomfortable I make other people *especially* at work. Maybe this will help-- I try to tell myself 1) I can only do my best (even if I am still trying to improve) and 2) I am bright, capable, and likeable even if "mistakes are made." Of course I don't always manage to convince myself... Good luck, I am in deep sympathy!