The Canker Within: How Low Self-Worth Undermines Growth

It is very necessary to note that every individual was born whole and complete. Yes, though we're unique in our own way, we were all born with a customized set of abilities, traits, talents, and potentials. These qualities shape our identity; they make us who we are, and our becoming is entirely hinged on them. In other words, we already possess everything that makes for our rising, greatness, and success.

Many young people today suffer from a limiting mindset—low self-esteem, self-doubt, inferiority complex, insecurity, poor self-image, etc. The list goes on and on, but one thing runs through them all: the feeling of unworthiness and insignificance. Why should someone feel unworthy? Why should a beautiful young lady think she's ugly? Why should a promising young man believe he won't amount to anything? Why should one think that others are far better than them? Why should you think you're not capable of doing something? Why should people, naturally endowed with unimaginable greatness, look down on themselves? Why?

This is truly heartbreaking and unfathomable. Such individuals build cages for themselves with their own bare hands. Their negative thoughts and self-perception imprison them, keeping them bound in a world that is ever-progressing. If this is not a canker, I don't know what is.

These mind shadows, if they linger for too long, eat away at our potential and render us absolutely useless. This is how people end up becoming failures and complete shadows of themselves.

We cannot place all the blame on them. It is understandable that their background and environment play key roles in shaping their beliefs and mindset. It may even be a past event that has had a traumatic effect on them, limiting them. Whatever the case may be, the world is not willing to take that as an excuse—neither should you.

These things do not define you. You already possessed those golden qualities before this ordeal. Yes, you went through challenges, but you have the power to break free from those shackles. Be like the eagle—rise from that muddy puddle, spread your wings, and soar. Try your best to recognize the abilities and potentials that make you stand out, challenge your negative thoughts daily, create space in your mind for growth, and see how you eradicate that canker.

Everyone was made to be exceptional and great. That includes you.