A lot of what I have learned through high school, and especially in the last year, can be summarized in the phrase “you never know unless you try”. Many of the awesome opportunities I’ve had would have never come to be if I did not step out of my comfort zone (like the Gryffindor I am). I spent too much time over thinking and doubting myself, even when I was “sure” of what I wanted to do. But, I believe that trying something that makes you uncomfortable or seems challenging can help you grow as a person.
For example: my summer internship. I wasn’t sure if asking the Girl Scout Board if anyone’s company had an internship available was something I was allowed to do. But someone was more than happy to help me, and they offered me a unique project. When I arrived at work the first day, I didn’t know what to do, but I went through the motions until found my niche. I ended up having an amazing experience that I gained so much practical knowledge about business from. I’m proud of what I’ve accomplished in my short, but worthwhile internship.
And this blog! I used to think blogging was only for housewives or recipe bloggers, and that as a student I wouldn’t have anything worth sharing. This blog turned into a chronicle of my time in AP English 3, and I can’t wait to share what happens in the future. Plus, I couldn’t have won “Best Overall Blog” at the OC Blogging Awards last June if it were not for the effort I put into every post.
Putting a sincere effort into a seemingly insurmountable task is difficult. The worst part is that the constant doubt and the fear of failure are all in your mind. However, I encourage to take a chance once in a while and push yourself to do the best you can. This may be: taking an AP class, applying for a new job that looks interesting, or just asking someone of higher authority a simple question. Whatever it is, you CAN do it. I won’t guarantee that it will turn out the way you expect it (because life never turns out that way), but I will guarantee that it will make you a better person. Just give it a try!
thescriptedtangent 