Seventh grade was not an easy year for me. I struggled a lot with my mental health and low self-esteem. I was anxious — constantly overthinking, doubting myself, questioning whether I was capable of more. Even small things felt overwhelming at times. I didn’t always trust my own abilities, even when I worked hard.
The science fair project became something I poured myself into. It wasn’t just an assignment; it was something I could control. I researched, tested, revised, and refined. There were moments I thought it wasn’t good enough. Moments I assumed someone else’s project would be better.
So when they announced that I had won first place, the happiness I felt wasn’t just excitement. It was validation. It was relief. It was proof that my effort mattered — that I was capable, even when I doubted myself.
I believe that happiness can sprout by many things- one which is validation. It feels good to win- because that’s when you prove to yourself that you can do anything as long as you put your mind to it.
