We often focus on how different we are, how we are unable to follow the norm or the trend, how our skin differs with some of our neighbors, or how our house is smaller than our friends.
Because we tend to focus too much on these things, we lose our chance to be confident of who we are and what we can do. We don't really think of how similar we are with each other, thus create the gap that causes us to feel lower and lesser than others. I know I do this at times, but I would stop myself when I notice it.
What about you? Do you always think you're different? Is this affecting your confidence?
As a kid, I'm scared to speak in front of the class, or join school presentations. The Principal kept sharing during her speeches that she used to be very poor and couldn't even afford a pair of shoes, but she persevered and worked on her studies until she became the best in school, thus went to college on scholarship grant. This is supposed to inspire us to do our best and be confident, but it never worked for me.
One day, an older Teacher Mr. Cuttiyog, came to me during a practice for the valedictory address and pointing to the mass of students gathered in the hall said, "These people do eat the same foods you eat, they poop and pee like you do, and they fart too. Maybe even louder and smellier. And they get embarrassed too, you know. Why would you feel scared or embarrassed when we're all just the same?"
I was quiet, reflecting on what he just said, so he went on.
"They're just bigger than you and know of other things that you'll eventually learn too. Think of it that way and don't be embarrassed. You see, some people just came out to this world ahead of you. Let them hear you now so they'll listen to you when you get older."
He then asked me, "Won't you like them to hear what you have to say? Just talk to them and for all you know, they might listen to you and like what you say."
Right there and then, I realized I'm not that different from other people whether young or old and shouldn't fear speaking to them. I went to the platform, looked around, smiled because I was thinking of loud farts, and went on to recite my speech like I'm just talking to my brothers. :)
Do you recall when you learned to be confident? How did you learn to be confident? Or should I ask if you are confident?
I'd be interested to know and will appreciate if you'd share it below.
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