"I have learnt that I am a valuable person I have learnt not to be embarrassed about myself but to be proud of myself because I am unique."

Discovering your own worth is an incredibly powerful realization. It’s about recognizing that you have value simply because you exist. Sounds simple, right? Yet, it’s something many of us struggle with daily. The idea here is straightforward: each of us is unique, and that uniqueness is inherently valuable. Embracing who you are, without embarrassment, leads to a genuine sense of pride and self-acceptance.

Now, let’s jump back in time to the societal pressures of the 1960s and 1970s. This was a period of significant change and transformation. People were challenging rigid norms and fighting for civil rights, women's rights, and more. In the midst of this, there was a growing movement toward self-acceptance and self-love. It’s in this context that people began to more openly discuss the importance of valuing oneself. It was a counter-culture to the conformity that dominated earlier decades.

Let’s bring this to life with a real-world example. Picture a high school student, Jamie, who struggles with self-esteem. Jamie faces bullying daily for being different—maybe it’s their style, maybe it’s their quirks. One day, Jamie’s art teacher, Mr. Lopez, notices Jamie’s talent and unique perspective. He encourages Jamie to enter an art competition. Despite initial hesitation and fear of standing out even more, Jamie does it. And wins. This victory isn’t just about the trophy; it’s about Jamie realizing that their unique perspective is valuable. They start to walk a little taller, speak a little louder, and gradually, that inner pride begins to shine.

So, how can you apply this wisdom in your own life? Start by identifying what makes you unique. Maybe you’re the person who always sees the bright side, or perhaps you have an uncanny ability to empathize with others. Whatever it is, lean into it. Celebrate it. When negative thoughts creep in—because they will—counter them with positive affirmations. Surround yourself with people who uplift you and validate your worth. And remember, confidence isn’t about being loud or the center of attention; it’s about being comfortable in your own skin.

Let me tell you a story to wrap this all up. Imagine Sarah. She's always been shy, blending into the background, afraid to voice her opinions in meetings at work. She’s got innovative ideas but worries they sound silly. One day, her boss insists everyone shares one idea for a new project. Heart pounding, Sarah speaks up. To her surprise, her idea is met with enthusiasm. It gets developed into a successful campaign. Sarah’s not just seen as the quiet one anymore; she’s the quiet one with brilliant ideas. This moment changes how she views herself. She realizes her quiet nature isn’t a flaw but a part of what makes her, her.

So, next time you doubt your worth, think of Jamie winning that art competition or Sarah speaking up in the meeting. Embrace your uniqueness. Be proud of who you are, because there’s no one else like you. That's your superpower.