This mindset is so common because most people don’t have enough confidence in themselves to believe that something amazing or devastating could happen to them at any time.
They pretend to believe the rest of their family are still alive because it gives them a reason to live. Throughout their imprisonment, Eliezer says his reason for surviving the atrocities is his father. When his father dies, he almost completely gives up, but is liberated. This hope is shown by other Jews in the camp. Many are searching for word of loved ones who might have escaped and survived in hopes that that they have survived.
Dedicate 5 or more hours a week to studying. A hour a day keeps the bad grdes away.