Sometimes people don’t believe in us. Sometimes they underestimate us. While this can be disappointing and downright discouraging, it can also be a gift.
“Being underestimated is a gift. You don’t have to find motivation.”
I read this in a weekly email I got from the author James Clear, and it stuck with me. I know this statement is true for me: whenever someone tells me I can’t do something, it gives me so much motivation to make it happen.
When others think we can’t do something it motivates us to prove that we can. Sometimes all we need is some fire under us and determination to keep going!
When I was in college, I wanted to write a book for middle and high school students, but it felt so unattainable. My college professor supported me, but advised me not to write a book, as she thought kids don’t read anymore. She suggested a video game would be better, but I knew that young people needed a book like It’s the Depression for Me. I continued to pursue my goal. That’s how my three books for tweens and teens including It’s the Depression for Me, It's the Awkwardness for Me, and It's the Confidence for Me were born! I was more motivated than ever to write a book for youth and I made it happen.
Even though it can feel like a slap to the face to hear comments like that from people close to you, remember that it will make you work 10 times harder.
Be grateful for those who underestimate you or don’t believe in you, because they are the ones who will motivate you like no other.
When have you been underestimated and how did that impact you?
