I went through a struggle very similar to yours. I would go to work everyday (as a 3rd grade teacher) and face a group of women who were very exclusive and judgemental. I struggled with learning how to manage being a teacher as it was my first year there, and they began talking about me and ignoring me when I came around. It gave me anxiety every day to walk into that building. But then I realized something…

I was letting them get to me. Their own insecurities and self-doubts were rubbing off on me. Yes, I was making mistakes, as you say you are, but isn’t that what makes us human? Why should we be the topic of a negative conversation?

I discovered that I had to first make a change. My own attitude about my self worth had diminished so much because I was seeing myself through the eyes of others. I felt like I wasn’t worth anything, and that I would never be good enough.

In this situation, you need to first look and see your own self. Evaluate who you are. You need to believe in yourself and go forth with confidence into the situation you speak of. You need to accept yourself and also forgive yourself. Start new every day. Do all that you can to know you are doing your best. That’s all others can ask for. Approach situations with confidence in yourself and do not worry if people talk, because they are likely broken souls with their own insecurities and issues.

In the end, I decided to believe in myself and become my own best motivator. Previously, I would walk into a room looking defeated and nervous to be in the presence of these women. Now I walk through with a smile on my face and an air of confidence. All of the little issues and petty gossip that were going on, seemed to stop. Or maybe I just didn’t care anymore to notice. But overall, I realized that I determine my own happiness and self-worth, no one else.

Realize that your own self-perception and worth is important. Build your confidence so that you can approach any situation in life. Stay positive, forgive yourself, and tell yourself that it will get better. And it will.

You are worthwhile
You are important
You make mistakes
And you are still beautiful.

<3 Kindred Kate