My whole life I have felt that I’ve taken fearless decisions and put myself forward without re-thinking my choices. However, recently a lot of negative thoughts and fear inhibits me from moving forward…and rather, I’m stuck in the past. Everyone else’s opinion of me seems to be so loud and I don’t take time to listen to my own voice but rather fall prey to those around me. The people around me ask ‘what happened to the old you?’ and ‘where is your old fire?’ All of these questions only make me feel even worse. My message to youngsters and people is simple–only listen to your own voice. Please. Another lesson is don’t compare yourself to others. This sounds so cliché, we all know this but it is genuinely understated.  Your version of success,ambition and fulfilment doesn’t have to align with those around you, and the minute we realise that accolades, grades and other hierarchical differentiators are social constructs—we become happy simply because we exist. Simply because we have value. I don’t need to feel worthless the minute I lose validation, but rather I can be my own biggest cheerleader and keep doing work that is meaningful to ME. Listen to your inner voice..somehow it already knows what you were destined to become. Soar high. All the best.