Finding Myself Again - Mia R's Story

Hello everyone, my name is Mia Ravelaz, I’m a senior at American Canyon High school. For a long time, I used to always compare myself to others around me, and it always made me feel so low about myself and self confessed. I would compare myself to people who I thought were prettier, smarter, and achieving more than me. No matter what I did, it felt like someone was doing better. But the more I compared, the more I felt like I didn’t measure up. It drained my confidence and made me question my worth, even on days when I was doing my best.

I didn’t realize that focusing so much on others made me forget about my own strengths. I ignored the fact that everyone faces challenges, no matter how well they hide them. Instead of focusing on what I had already achieved, I only thought about what I lacked. I didn't treat myself well, I was always doubting, criticizing, and judging myself without reasons. 

I had no idea how much comparing myself was taking away from my own life. Rather than paying attention to what I needed, I kept on looking at what other people had. I was too busy with what I felt I was lacking to notice the progress I was making. I felt tired and disappointed, as though what I did would never be enough.

So I started trying to focus more on myself instead of everyone else. I didn’t make huge changes, I just took small steps. I made an effort to pay attention to the small things that I accomplished well. I reminded myself that people only show the good parts of their lives, not the challenges they have faced. And over time, even on the days when I didn't feel my best, I tried to be a little kinder to myself.

I'm starting to really appreciate who I am now. I'm aware that I'm still growing, and that's okay. I don't have to have their perfect looks or type of life. I feel happier and at peace now that I love who I am. I'm finally starting to realize that I deserve the same respect, love, and care that I give to other people, and that small realization has had a huge effect on my life.