Nobody likes to wait around for things, especially important things, so bear a thought for our students awaiting exam results this month. Whether it is GCSEs, A Levels or indeed other results, nerves are sure to be running high.

Other members of the family may also be caught in the wait-cycle – job seekers after an interview; those trying for a baby; you may be awaiting test results from hospital or the all-clear at the end of treatment. Whatever the circumstances, waiting for important results is nerve-wracking and can have an immense impact on family life. So how can we help them through it?

Be fully present
This is an invaluable step to take and possibly the greatest gift you can give – commit to being fully present for them. Listen to their thoughts and feelings without trying to fix anything. Seeing them in the moment, acknowledging their resilience and willingness to keep going is invaluable.

Physically, ensuring plenty of rest and good food is always helpful – stay hydrated and try to steer away from junk food. My go-to advice of breathing is vital now, so taking time to be still and breathe into any stress will pay dividends. Remember, no matter what the outcome, things will be what they are.

Deep listening
If results arrive and they are not quite what was hoped for, this is the time for you to ‘hold space’ for them to feel into disappointment, fear and worry, before re-centring and deciding on a new plan of action.

No matter what the results were, it isn’t the end of the world and tomorrow is another day. Look for a direction which matches the key values of the individual, rather than fitting the ‘norms’ of the wider world.

If health matters are highlighted then loving and caring are sometimes all we can do, but stay present and be willing to really see the person before you – as they truly are rather than as a diagnosis.

I am a great advocate of ‘getting personal’ and really looking at the personal power within each of us. Sometimes not getting what we expected (or being pleasantly surprised) can really call on our sense of self to rise to the challenge and make the best of a situation.

Celebrate ‘what is’
No matter the outcome, take time out to celebrate ‘what is’ – what was achieved, what was learned, what has been overcome and what unexpected outcomes have been realised. Life is a constant surprise and once the waiting is over we have ‘what is’ and it is perfect and it is now.

I don’t know about you but that fills my heart with joy and gives me permission to live freely and with abandon. No test scores or outside judgements can ever be more important than how I feel about my life, and I truly hope you can hold that belief for yourself. Because you deserve it – you’re incredible!