Greatest Skill and Talent

My greatest talent is undoubtedly my drive for introspection and personal development. When the pandemic hit, I got disconnected with reality, with my escape being technology. I was stuck in a period of procrastination and isolation, having my head shaved at one point. During my sophomore year of high school, I questioned the existence of my life. "What was I doing?" ... Seeking advice from my teachers, I got into journaling, and through reflecting on my day, I was amazed at how many unconscious blunders and mistakes I was making. I wasn't polite, with my vocabulary being tragic. I acknowledged these instances and sought to address them, constructively changing my disposition. Fitness was next. After getting into the gym, I entered the cycle of accelerated returns. I became robust and social, with my repertoire expanding significantly. I would randomly strike up conversations with strangers, finding meaning in how relationships are the cornerstone of life. I wanted to confront my fear of heights, so I went bouldering at a climbing gym in San Francisco. All was good until I was high on this one course, with no harness and I felt certain death in my next move. I was stuck in that position, contemplating if I should make the move. I took the leap of faith and I prevailed. I was invigorated. Then I got whiplash, forgetting to brace. I went to school the next day and put my head down in all of my classes - the pain was unbearable. When I explained the situation to my English teacher, Mr. Wilcox, he said to me " That is a brave endeavor, I hope that this does not discourage you". I was like woah, and it ignited a flame within me to reframe this injury into a benefit. I no longer fear reaching new heights out of injury, because I know it will be an opportunity for growth. My ability to self-reflect, grow, and keep pushing boundaries has become second nature. I know that this drive to learn from everything will be the driving force behind all my successes.