I Didn't Start with a Medal

I did not start my journey with a medal. I started it with a decision — to try harder.

When I was in Grade 1 and Grade 2, I was not one of the class toppers. I did not win prizes. At times, when I saw other students receiving awards, I wondered if I could ever stand there too.

But instead of comparing myself with them, I decided to work on myself.

I started putting more effort into my studies. I tried to understand my mistakes instead of feeling bad about them. Slowly, I began to realize something important:

Being behind today does not mean you will always stay behind.

I was extremely happy. But what made those medals special was not just the medals themselves. I knew how far I had come.

The same year, I also received the Grade Proficiency Prize. In Grade 4, I continued my efforts and received the Grade Proficiency Prize again.

Something had changed.

It was not only my marks or my collection of prizes. My confidence had changed.

Earlier, a difficult question could make me think, “Maybe I can't do this.”

Now I think, “I haven't solved it yet.”

That little change in my thinking made a big difference.

Today, in Grade 5, I have many prizes and achievements that I am proud of. I am preparing to participate in Olympiads again, and I know that every new competition is another opportunity to learn and improve.

When I look back at my Grade 1 and Grade 2 self, I don't feel sad that I wasn't a topper.

I feel proud.

Because that girl taught me the most important lesson of all:

You don't need to be the best when you begin. You just need the courage to begin.

A medal can show what you achieved on one particular day.

But the hard work, mistakes, practice and determination behind that medal are what truly make the achievement special.

My journey is still continuing. I don't know how many medals I will win in the future.