For the longest time, I have found myself caring too much about what other people thought. It’s been something I’ve constantly battled – focusing on other people’s opinions or what they may think and having the fear of being judged dictate my life. As a perfectionist, sometimes I find myself not wanting people to see that I’m not perfect. I make mistakes, fail, my skin breaks out, I have bad hair days, and sometimes I stutter or mess up my words, among many other things.  

As I’ve gotten older, I’ve started caring less about what people think and it’s something I constantly work on, but every now and then I find myself back at square one, having the same negative thoughts and ideas. As someone who is very interested in blogging and social media, I’ve wanted to start a YouTube channel for two years now, but I always let fear and doubt stop me. I just turned 21 and I’m a senior in college. So many things are happening right now, from living through a pandemic to looking at graduate schools. It’s not only an exciting time in my life, but it’s a transformative one, and with that I really need to figure out what I want for myself and my future. I want to live my life to its fullest potential, but if I let my fears get in the way I’m never going to do that.  

I knew that starting a YouTube channel would be scary for me and that I would doubt myself along the way, but after splurging on a nice camera and buying a ton of accessories, I told myself I was going to start no matter what and that there was no going back. I decided that even though it was uncomfortable and unfamiliar, I was going to do it, and that’s exactly what I did. The first time I picked up my camera I recorded the first clip six times before picking one. It hasn’t been easy, but I’m becoming more and more confident in myself and I’m learning to let go of my uncertainty and apprehension and embrace the unknown.  

This channel is not only a way for me to be creative and explore something I’ve always wanted to do, but it’s teaching me to take risks, chase my dreams, try new things, be uncomfortable, and understand myself more. I’m excited to see where it takes me and to continue learning along the way.  

If there’s something you’ve wanted to do for a long time and you haven’t pursued it for whatever reason, this is a sign to start. Stop letting whatever is in the way control you. You are bigger than your fears and deserve to chase your dreams and fulfill your potential. It’s now or never. Go do it.