Sometimes, it is exhausting… being the person that always tries, being the person that always puts in all of my effort. I’ve realized that it’s tiring, but I've also realized that it is who I am and even though sometimes it feels like I'm not spending enough time on myself, I wouldn’t change it for the world. Through friendships, relationships, family relations and any other type of connection or union, I have put in all of my effort: to relate to this person, to be there for this person, to respect their opinions and feelings and boundaries, to go above and beyond to make them happy and be just a good person overall. I believe that everything happens for a reason and if someone is put in your life, you should try as much as you can to keep them in it. Don't get me wrong, people will come and go and sometimes they just aren't meant to stay in your life forever for whatever reason, but me not trying is never going to be one of the reasons. In anything I do: whether it be academics, projects, work, friendships and responsibilities, I have put in my best effort and I have been determined to succeed in whatever the situation is. I am not one to lightly give up on something I want, whether it is a dream or to have a deeper connection with someone in my life. Sometimes, I doubt my abilities or I want to give up, but I never let myself. I know that my hard work and determination will only help me in succeeding in every single thing I want to do in life. I've been able to find a balance between pushing myself way too hard to the point of failure or not trying at all. I know to put my best effort into the most important aspects of my life and give to those who equally give to me. To the people who are just like me, and are always trying harder than most people, you have to know that sometimes, failing is OK and sometimes, it is not your fault because all you can do is try. In certain instances I've found that I can get overwhelmed by the need to continue to try harder, but by doing so I have learned from my mistakes and I am able to improve myself each and every day. I pride myself in my determination and effort and I hope that I can inspire everyone around me to persevere and continue to try in the aspects of their life that they find to be most important, to continue to improve themselves and become the best they can be while realizing that not everyone can be helped and no matter how hard you try, some things just won't happen in your favor because that's just how life is. Remember to continue trying, stay determined, stay positive and work on improving yourself through every opportunity life gives you but never sell yourself short or spread yourself too thin.