Choosing Confidence

Choosing Confidence

By Ollie

As a child, I was shy and introverted, often escaping into imaginary worlds full of magic and monsters. Back then, I was free to be myself. But in high school, everything changed. Identity felt like a prison—everyone expected to fit the same mould. To avoid bullying, I became a “secret agent,” projecting an image of normality while hiding my true self.

For years, my self-worth depended on blending in—decent grades, short hair, an average life. It was easier to copy others than to risk standing out. But deep inside, I felt like something was missing.

By my teens, depression and anxiety had taken over. I lost friends, my grades collapsed, and I hit rock bottom. Then Covid struck. Strangely, lockdown became the catalyst for change. With no school, no friends, and no distractions, I had to face myself. Who was I, really? What kind of life did I want? For the first time, I chose authenticity over validation—and slowly, confidence began to grow.

That growth continued at university, during my year in Spain, and later at work. Each stage gave me the chance to step closer to my real self. There were setbacks, of course, but through quiet walks, solo coffee dates, and moments of reflection, I discovered what mattered most.

I realised confidence isn’t about style, status, or standing out. It starts within. It’s looking in the mirror and asking: Do I like who I am? Am I kind? Do I have worth? The answer has to come from you—not from how others see you.

Self-love is a journey we’re all on. Rich or poor, fat or thin, “pretty” or “ugly”—we all carry insecurities as well as strengths. So if no one has reminded you today, here it is: you’re enough. Take a moment, look in the mirror, and smile. It works.

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