If critics can make me convince myself that I don't have it, or that I can't surpass expectations, I am admitting defeat in my journey of realizing my dream. From breaking boundaries. From showing the world my worth. Living with a chip on my shoulder is part of my daily agenda. So as I take a step back, I take a deep breath and recite my personal mission: "Keep your head down. Embrace the lack of recognition. Thrive from the doubt. Prove to everyone you have a purpose. And never let up until the last critic has been silenced." These words echo in the surrounding peacefulness of my own little world. After I have repeated the confidence-driven words to myself, I dig in and prepare for the people that are anxiously waiting to criticize my every...last...move.