By Eric Noel Roman

Thank you.

As individuals, we enjoy hearing polite words. As groups we gravitate towards people who share polite measures. In addition, we also enjoy seeing our loved ones succeed. Success drives us to be better. We strive to accomplish what our peers have attained, and I am not talking about monetary or material gains.

Equally talking about ourselves is not always a selfish act. Telling people about new endeavors, goals met, or winning gives value to our actions. These are the accomplishments that make you an individual. Individualism is important, creating points of interest for others. It is the essence that attracts others to us. There should be no shame in being unique. Being open about individuality, and individual accomplishments provide self-worth. All great fuels for good self-esteem.

Having high self-worth leads to positive effects towards others. These effects may dictate how people reciprocate when there may be a moment of stumble. It is a chain effect of give and take.

However, too much confidence can have negative outcomes. By always focusing on individual needs, it can be easy to forget others have feelings as well. At this point, continuously taking the spotlight will cause people to have no interest. The light bulb eventually burns out and nobody will be there to help change the bulb. One must be balanced in these cases. Allow others to stand in the limelight. Encourage others to let their inner light shine. Who knows, you might learn something about yourself in reflection.

Be proud of who you are, let others know who you are and what you have accomplished. However, it is wise to keep others’ feelings considered. We are all here to help each other along the way.