She Strengthens

From Failure to Triumph: A Journey of Self-Discovery

Six years ago, I embarked on a journey that would change the course of my life forever. At 18, I started my undergraduate business degree, feeling confident and invincible. With a full scholarship, grants, and a family education trust, I thought I had it all figured out. But, as it often does, reality had other plans.

The Crash and Burn

My academic complacency caught up with me, and I found myself struggling in higher-level classes. Despite my initial confidence, I was woefully unprepared and earned two D’s and two F’s in my first year. My financial aid was revoked, and I was left with no degree, no direction, and no financial safety net.

The Retail Rut

I turned to retail, leveraging my charisma and fashion sense to land a job. However, despite promotions and raises, I felt stuck, working long hours for minimal pay. I lived with my mom, barely scraping by, and still struggled to make ends meet.

A Turning Point

After years of feeling stagnant, I decided to take a leap of faith and pursue a career as a certified optician. Despite my doubts and fears, I landed a job at an ophthalmology practice and threw myself into learning. The journey wasn’t easy, but I eventually earned my certification and found a sense of pride and purpose in my work.

Lessons Learned

Through my experiences, I’ve come to realize that failure is not the opposite of success, but a crucial stepping stone to achieving it. I’ve learned to forgive myself, acknowledge my limitations, and recognize that the universe doesn’t owe me an easy ride. By embracing my mistakes and taking ownership of my flaws, I’ve unlocked a sense of self-awareness and confidence that I never thought possible.

Proud of My Journey

Today, at 24, I’m proud to be making $40,000 a year, living on my own, and doing work that brings me joy. I may not have followed the traditional path, but I’ve learned that it’s the journey, not the destination, that truly matters. I’m proud of myself for trying, failing, and learning from my mistakes. And I’m grateful for the lessons I’ve learned along the way.