In this day and age of social media and having the world at the touch of your fingertips it is so easy to compare your life to someone else's. Or maybe you don't compare your life to anyone else's, maybe you're just afraid to be who you are in fear of looking like you're not good enough compared to "Instagram-famous people." I'll be the first to admit that I constantly compare my image to those of celebrities. We all do, but this should not in any way tamper your individuality, your uniqueness, your talents or your passions.

Every single person was delivered into this world with talents. It takes a while to develop and execute these talents, but they are there, lying under the surface just waiting to be lit to life. In elementary school, you probably took art and music classes, and there are always those kids who had a freakishly amazing painting of a fish and you're like, "How is that even possible?" And then there are the people who are the pro-level of their age group in sports. These talents are what differentiate us from the person standing next to us. This is something that should never be sugarcoated or taken lightly.

If you acknowledge that you are skilled in a certain area, do NOT let anyone take away that sparkle in your eye or your passion for this skill. This is what you were born to do. Never let any single person downplay or make fun of your passion. This is what makes you, YOU. You should never feel insecure posting about a new song you wrote, a new drawing that you are going to have displayed, a new soccer trick or even a new karate move. These are the things that make you feel most alive, so never let anyone take away your purpose on earth, and never try to change who you are for anybody. In this world, you can be anything you dream to be with hard work and determination. Furthermore, life is short... so do what makes you feel most alive. People's opinions of your life choices are irrelevant.

There will be times you get rejected and you will feel like this path isn't for you, but don't give up. Nobody ever wrote a biography on someone who had it easy. Life is about failing and being better the next time around. The more you try and hide your passions the more they'll itch to come out. So, the next time you feel insecure about your talent, remember why you are here on this earth: to stand out. Who wants to be just another follower in the crowd? Be a leader. Take risks for your talents. Go to the ends of the earth to satisfy the hunger in your heart for these passions. Love who you are, and embrace the gifts you were given. Never compare yourself to anyone else.

There is only 1 you. And that you were born to shine.