If I paid any attention to my report cards of yore, I would have self-sabotaged myself into mediocrity decades ago.
The thing is, I have this weird, super power of ignoring the “thing” of the moment. Be it stereo types, pop culture, the success status symbol of the day, etc.
If it’s trending, I’m questioning. The louder the message, the more I think it’s sus. The more consistent and rehearsed the words are, there is definitely an agenda, and usually not one that is beneficial for the audience.
Fortunately, I knew this report card was not preview of my future self. At the time I did not have the emotional or intellectual insight to predict my direction, I just knew this piece of paper was not relevant to me.
The flip side to my irrational youth, I had to learn a lot, like a metric shit ton, of hard lessons that could have been avoided if I simply listened to the coaches, the people I aspired to be and the successful mentors who graciously gave me slivers of their time and knowledge. For that, I am forever grateful.
As one goes through life, it’s helpful to recognize and expect you will go through multiple cycles of Dunning-Kruger Effect, or more simply. If you think you have it figured out, you probably don’t. If you question your ability or station in life, you are probably on the right track.
Most importantly, never stop grinding, never stop learning, and never stop trying. You got this.
