From Anxiety to Achievement- How board games are helping students overcome fear of failure

In an era marked by relentless academic pressures and an ever-evolving job market, students across the globe are grappling with the fear of failure. Anxiety related to academic performance, career choices, and personal growth has become a universal concern. While traditional methods like counseling and mentorship have played a significant role in addressing these issues, an unexpected yet effective tool has emerged — board games.

Board games are no longer just about fun and recreation. They have evolved into powerful learning tools that teach critical life skills, from strategic thinking to emotional resilience. Gaurav Bhagat, a renowned entrepreneur, has been at the forefront of this revolution. At the age of 16, Gaurav’s entrepreneurial journey began with the creation of a stock market game that offers players a real-world perspective on financial literacy. Today, his innovative approach continues with ‘Lakshya: The Goal Setting Game,’ a unique board game that addresses the holistic development of players of all ages.

The Rise of “Edutainment” Through Board Games

Research has shown that interactive learning significantly enhances knowledge retention compared to passive learning. A 2024 study by the Global Learning Institute found that 78% of students who engaged in experiential learning, like playing educational board games, demonstrated higher confidence in tackling real-world problems. By integrating elements of play and strategy, these games make learning enjoyable and reduce the pressure that often accompanies formal education.

In the context of mental well-being, the American Psychological Association (APA) highlighted that games focusing on problem-solving and goal-setting help reduce anxiety by fostering a sense of control. Players engage with challenges in a low-risk environment, allowing them to overcome the “fear of failure” mindset.

Spotlight on “Lakshya: The Goal Setting Game”

Unlike conventional board games, ‘Lakshya’ stands out as a science-backed tool that emphasizes holistic growth across six critical areas: Work, Finance, Lifestyle, Health, Mental Well-being, and Family & Relationships. It’s a one-of-a-kind experience that caters to children as young as five and adults up to 85. Through engaging design, goal-setting challenges, and interactive play, players learn the importance of goal-setting, perseverance, and strategic decision-making.

Consider this scenario: A 10-year-old struggling with the idea of “What do I want to be when I grow up?” often faces anxiety when surrounded by peers who seem more certain. ‘Lakshya’ transforms this pressure into an enjoyable activity. The child selects goals, faces mini-challenges, and experiences the satisfaction of achieving small wins. Each move on the board reflects real-life decision-making, encouraging players to think critically about short-term and long-term goals.

For teenagers and adults, the game’s appeal lies in its relatability. With tasks related to financial planning, health, and work-life balance, ‘Lakshya’ allows players to visualize and act on their aspirations. This experiential approach fosters a “growth mindset,” which Stanford psychologist Carol Dweck identifies as a key trait of high achievers.

Financial Literacy with the Stock Market Game

Building financial acumen from a young age can be a game-changer. This Game bridges the knowledge gap for students and young professionals seeking to understand equity markets. This game introduces players to concepts of equity, futures, and market trends in a risk-free, engaging environment.

Statistics from the National Financial Literacy Report 2024 reveal that 63% of young adults in India feel “underprepared” to manage their personal finances. The stock market game addresses this issue by simulating real-world financial scenarios. Players learn to analyse risks, diversify investments, and make informed decisions — essential skills for future investors and entrepreneurs. This learning-by-doing approach helps dismantle the fear of failure that often accompanies financial decision-making.

For example, a college student aiming to build a career in finance can practice investment strategies through the game. By learning to navigate market fluctuations in a controlled environment, players build confidence in real-life scenarios. This hands-on experience demystifies stock trading, paving the way for better financial literacy.

Data Speaks: How Board Games Reduce Anxiety and Boost Achievement

1. Learning by Doing: According to a 2024 survey by the Education Development Institute, 82% of students who played goal-setting or strategy board games reported improved problem-solving skills and reduced anxiety about career choices.
2. Emotional Resilience: Studies suggest that students exposed to experiential learning are 60% more likely to adopt a “failure as feedback” mindset, which helps them recover from setbacks faster.
3. Holistic Development: ‘Lakshya’ promotes growth in six areas critical to personal and professional development, offering a comprehensive approach that few other educational tools can match.

Final Thoughts

Board games like ‘Lakshya: The Goal Setting Game’ and the Stock Market Game redefine learning for students and professionals. They foster real-world skills, resilience, and confidence while reducing fear of failure.

By Gaurav Bhagat, Founder, The Gaurav Bhagat Academy