BELIEVE IN YOURSELF.

image via Unsplash.

I like to give a little pep talk to my student teachers before they leave each term (more on my job here). I feel funny giving them a speech because I'm quite literally only a few years older than they are, but in a way, I think that makes what I tell them that much more meaningful and applicable.

One of the things I make sure to tell them is that I understand what it's like to be a college grad and to be a young person in the confusing, daunting, and exciting workforce. That there will be people who look down on you, who give you that look, and talk to you like you can't possibly know what you're doing because you're young, fresh, and so new.

I tell them that they've got to keep going. That some days you'll just have to fake your confidence. But that most importantly, you've got to believe in yourself when others don't. You've got to prove them wrong.

I've made a few cry with the words that I say, which I never thought would happen. But I think it's important for young people to know--and all people for the matter--that someone believes in you. And that they have to know that they're capable of changing a life and the world around them.

So I'm telling you today to believe in yourself. I've had people look down at me, doubting my abilities, and questioning my actions. Thinking that I cannot possibly handle my job or the responsibilities that come with it. I ended up proving them all wrong, but that's not the point of this post. The point is that you've got to believe in yourself and listen to your heart and listen to the people who do believe in you.

Remember those encouraging words you hear from others. Remember those hugs. Remember those days when you nail your speech, lesson, conference call, meeting, or email. Remember those days because you need to celebrate the little things.

Believe in yourself because you are worth it. So very, very worth it.