If you are in doubt

by : Erin Koranteng

Self-love is what they say

you have after the confidence

has been established and confirmed by

everyone. Previously, all you were

was a tangled ball of

insecurities and self-deprecation.

Self-esteem is what you possess

after you have evolved into the image

that prompts the world to cheer.

Before that your peers brand you a coward

and scoffingly question when

the babybird will grow some wings.

Self-actualization is what they believe

you have gained after you post the tenth series

of perfect song covers. Prior to that

they claim that you are passionless,

say that you must prove yourself to the world,

call you susceptible and a wimp.

The reason people seek huge record labels,

squabble for awards

when all you really need is to establish your style,

build your range and

some coaching from an expert

is that every creator needs

credentials to exhibit as proof

very much like your favorite actor,

you’re being urged by your apathetic counselor

to show emotion and she’s licensed.

The real artist is the one who creates

free of opinion and without a care in the world. Self-love is like

a blazing fire that needs consistent fueling. Skill feeds self-esteem.

You need to build it at your own pace and

appreciate each of its forms every step of the way.