I've become accustomed to hearing of people's surprise when I accomplish not so surprising tasks.

I'm small in stature.

When I eat a lot of food, people's eyes widen and they make comments without thinking. "You're so tiny, where does it all go?" "You're so lucky you can eat whatever you want."

When I lift a heavy object, I hear "Are you sure you've got that?" or "You're stronger than you look."

I have a gentle demeanor. I listen more than I speak quite often, so people don't always know about the things I like to do or what I've been achieving. I've heard "You're smarter than I thought," a few too many times.

Whether it's at a job, in new friendships or in a new organization, I have dealt with the struggles of proving myself. Although it pays off when other people finally see your potential, you have to learn to be the only person you look for approval from.

Sometimes other people just won't see your potential, no matter how much you deserve validation. Take this as a note that you are strong, even if people view you otherwise.

You have gone through a story no one else will fully understand or appreciate. Your weaknesses don't make you weak. Facing them and continuing on your journey in spite of your flaws makes you a fighter.

I'm also not always the leader people expect, but that doesn't make me any less effective of a leader. I've held leadership positions in various organizations I've been a part of which catches some off guard.

We have all heard that our differences are what drive us, so embrace your alternate style and share your strengths regardless.

If you're small and constantly overlooked, I see you.

If you're quiet and constantly tuned out when you do speak up, I hear you.

If you're struggling with school and are viewed as unintelligent as a result, I believe in you.

I have always let other people define me. I have let people lead me to believe I am weak and of the ability to make little impact on others.

But after self-reflection, I have realized, I am not weak. I have been through so much shit and the fact that I have come out the other side still functioning well makes me a fighter.

I'm not even quiet. I utilize my voice in the ways I view as most effective. That's why I share it every week on a platform that can reach more people than my spoken words can. I listen more than I talk so I can contribute a well thought out response as a result.

I am a good leader.

My voice is worth raising.

I am strong.

You can tell me that I "look like I would lose any fight I ever got in," or that you could "break my arms in half" all you want. You can explain to me that I am not confrontational or that I lack a backbone if you wish. You can even share your opinion of how I might not be the right fit to lead.

But I am done believing you. I am done buying into the mold society has placed me into. I have bought into that model for far too long, and it has inhibited my ability to grow.

For the rest of you that feel constantly underestimated, I encourage you to do the same. Your weaknesses DO NOT make you weak.You have been through some shit too, and here you are.

Validate your own damn self, because you deserve it and because sometimes other people just don't get it.