“It never hurts to try!” — that’s the quote I live by every day.
Being quiet and timid, I missed many chances and opportunities doubting myself and questioning whether I was qualified for the job. I had already lost the battle before the fight began. I spent years regretting all the good opportunities I missed because of my insecurities and shyness.
Until one day I realized that I was not the only one who questioned my own ability. Everyone does that too. It’s just that they don’t just focus on what they are lacking; they appreciate what they already have as well. As that realization hit me, I figured out what I needed to change about myself.
The journey of me challenging myself began.
I challenged myself to come out of my comfort zone, go out, meet new people, and try new things. Of course, doing something I’m not familiar with is tough and awkward, but I did not let that stop me. Self-doubt is like my shadow; it is always there by my side. But that shadow does not have any power over me because I have my magic spell. Every time I start to feel nervous and want to give up, I tell myself: Being nervous is a good sign, because if you don’t feel nervous, it means that you are not pushing yourself hard enough.
Another tough milestone of mine was when I had to decide which major to pursue in university. Actually, I had been hearing about the Department of Media and Communication since I was in grade 11. I spent 2 years contemplating whether or not I should apply. Instead of sitting back and continuing to question myself, I decided to give it a try.
I’m now a sophomore at DMC.
To be honest, I’m still not sure if I chose the right path. I still question every step I’ve taken. But, after all, it never hurts to try.
The same thing applied to my decision to participate in the Newsroom Cambodia journalism training program. I don’t know whether journalism is really for me. But I believe that I will never figure out the answer unless I give it a try.
There are many things I have to learn about this field, and I’m ready to take on all the new challenges because I’m still young and have more time to explore.
