"If you're able to be yourself, then you have no competition. All you have to do is get closer and closer to that essence."

Being yourself is one of the most liberating and powerful things you can do. It’s like wearing your favorite pair of shoes that fit perfectly and look great—nothing else quite compares. When you embrace who you truly are, you stop worrying about what others are doing, because your unique qualities and strengths set you apart. There’s no competition because no one else can be you.

Think about the music industry in the 1960s. Bands like The Beatles and The Rolling Stones didn’t get famous by trying to be like everyone else. They were themselves, unapologetically. They each had their own style, their own sound, and their own way of doing things. This authenticity attracted people to them and made them legends. If they had tried to blend in or mimic other bands, they likely would’ve been lost in the crowd.

So, how do you apply this to your own life? Let’s say you’re at work and you’re constantly comparing yourself to a colleague who seems to excel effortlessly. Maybe they’re a whiz at giving presentations, and you feel like you stumble over your words. But here’s the thing: you might be missing out on what makes you special. Perhaps you’re great at building relationships or have a knack for creative problem-solving. By focusing on what makes you unique and honing those skills, you can carve out your own niche where you truly shine.

Now, picture this: You’re at a high school reunion. You’re chatting with old classmates, catching up on life. One friend, let’s call him Mike, spent years trying to fit into the corporate mold, wearing the suits, talking the talk. But he always felt a bit off, like he was playing a role. Then there’s Sarah. She always loved art and decided to pursue a career in graphic design. She’s passionate about her work and it shows. Mike tells you he finally broke free from the corporate grind and started his own business, blending his love for tech and creativity. He’s happier than ever—no longer competing with others, but forging his own path.

What can we learn from Mike and Sarah? They both found peace and success by getting closer to their true selves. For Mike, it took a bit longer, but he got there by recognizing what he loved and moving towards it. Sarah knew her passion from the start and followed it.

To bring this wisdom into your life, start by identifying what makes you unique—your passions, strengths, quirks, and even your flaws. Embrace them. Don’t waste energy trying to be someone else. Instead, invest in becoming the best version of yourself. This might mean taking risks or making changes that feel uncomfortable at first. But that’s okay. Growth happens outside your comfort zone.

Here’s a little exercise: next time you find yourself comparing to someone else, stop and list three things you love about yourself or that you’re good at. Shift your focus from what they’re doing to what you’re doing. It’s a small step, but it can make a big difference.

So, take a deep breath. Be you. There’s no one else who can do it better. And that, my friend, is your superpower.