Sometimes we put undue pressure on ourselves to do the thing we think people expect of us. That's fine if and when it drives us to be productive and motivated to succeed. If we're just making ourselves stressed and miserable and not achieving our aims, it's time to re-examine things.

With my heart thundering in my ears 

As my stomach flutters to cope

My failing sight brings dread but I hope

for the dignity I might one day maintain

In my mind has reigned a rigid denial,

my cheeks flushed bright give me away

A wandering thought has stricken me

but instinctively I attempt a save. 

Competition and challenges rise 

And back gol I, to run and hide

athletic in my retreat, in shame

I cower and close my eyes.

Given enough rope to hang myself,

I deny the obvious but feel deep pain

I see nowhere to go but up in smoke,

I skulk, I sulk, I remain. 

Self-doubt and self-pity keep us down

lash out at them, be above the crowd

fear of failure should be banished from here

to make yourself and others proud.