The second step: an inner battle that remains hidden from the world. I’ve often heard people say things like, “Stand up for yourself, be brave, don’t give up! You can do this; you have to help yourself first.” And I took that first step for myself, but then I found myself wondering, what comes next? What I wasn’t prepared for were the waves of self-doubt crashing in: “Am I doing this right? Am I overreacting? Am I ready for the challenges ahead that could lead me to success? Was I too quick to take that first step?”

The fear of judgment loomed large, with opinions clouding my vision, an uncertain future ahead, and the struggle of the unknown. I kept thinking, “What if I choose the wrong path and end up back at square one?” I found myself over-analyzing everything, feeling confused, asking, “Why does this always happen to me? Maybe I’m just too naive to figure anything out. Can I really do this on my own?” It hit me hard how much I was holding back.

When you take that first step, you’re really acknowledging your situation and deciding you don’t want to stay there anymore. The toughest part isn’t just taking that first step; it’s about keeping the momentum going afterward. The second step is where you need to muster all your strength to rein in those scattered thoughts. Give your mind a break, be patient with yourself, and when you feel stuck, don’t hesitate to seek guidance. Don’t let others’ judgments cloud your thinking. Remember, moving slowly and steadily is a surefire way to reach your goals.