The Biggest Mistake You Can Make

I want to share something deeply personal with you today - a lesson I learned the hard way. One of the biggest mistakes I made in my journey was waiting for someone else, particularly a parent, to catch up with what I already knew. I thought their validation would affirm my achievements and help me fully recognize my success. But the reality was far different.

There I was, waiting and hoping that my parent would acknowledge the strides I had made in my life. I had faced significant challenges, and while I didn’t have the tools to navigate those difficulties initially, I learned, adapted, and ultimately found a way through. I became determined to help others who might be in similar situations, pouring my energy into becoming a resource for those in need. 

My career path took an unexpected turn when I walked into a temp job at a company. Through hard work and the skills I honed along the way, I eventually moved up to the executive department and now handle internal audits. But despite these achievements, I found myself feeling unworthy because I was still seeking approval from someone who couldn’t see beyond my past mistakes.

Recently, I stumbled upon a powerful statement from Whoopi Goldberg: “I never needed the credit; I just needed to work.” She emphasized the importance of knowing who you are and what you contribute, rather than waiting for others to recognize it. This resonated deeply with me and made me realize that I had been making a grave error. I had been trying to pull others into my understanding of success, rather than embracing it for myself.

So here’s the crux of what I want to convey: don’t wait for someone else’s validation to recognize your worth. Your value is not determined by others; it’s defined by how you perceive yourself and your abilities. If you rely on outside opinions, you might find yourself stuck in a cycle of hopelessness, constantly questioning your capabilities based on others’ views.

Examine Your Life

If you’re feeling uncertain about your path, I encourage you to take a moment to examine your life. Ask yourself:

1. What have I accomplished that I’m proud of? Write down your achievements, no matter how small they may seem.
2. What challenges have I overcome? Reflect on the resilience you've shown in the face of adversity.
3. Am I pursuing my passions? Consider whether you’re following your interests and dreams or if you’re waiting for someone else to validate them.

Pursuing personal growth and self-awareness is crucial to your success. Surround yourself with people who uplift you and recognize your potential, but ultimately, know that your worth comes from within. Invest in yourself - read books, take courses, and seek experiences that will foster your growth. 

As you embark on this journey of self-discovery, remember that it’s okay to move forward without waiting for someone to catch up. Your path is uniquely yours, and the sooner you embrace that, the sooner you can soar. 

In the end, trust yourself and your abilities. Don’t let someone else’s perception dictate your success. You are capable, you are worthy, and you are on the right path. It’s time to recognize that and continue striving for your purpose. When you do, you’ll find that not only can you soar, but others may eventually join you in that flight. Let go of the need for validation, and embrace the incredible journey that is uniquely yours.