Tests tests tests

OK ok. I admit it. I am procrastinating.... on studying for yet another test. Is it just me, or does it seem like life is all about tests? I'm serious. Especially since I've been to Japan. There's the daily life skills tests [not an actual test ;) ], the Japanese Language Proficiency tests and ever present kanji tests, violin songs to be mastered and taiko drum levels to be passed, and now I am studying for the GMAT test that I will take in October. I really am in a country of test takers. What is all this testing for? Will it make me a better Japanese speaker, violin player, taiko drummer and b-school student? I don't know. But I know if I pass these tests, everyone else will think so. And....that's what matters....right?