The gremlin of not fitting in can be a constant struggle for many individuals. It is a feeling of being an outsider, of not quite belonging in any particular group or social setting. This gremlin can manifest itself in various ways, from feeling uncomfortable in social situations to constantly comparing oneself to others and feeling inadequate. It is a pervasive and persistent feeling that can greatly impact one’s self-esteem and overall happiness. However, it is important to remember that everyone experiences moments of not fitting in at some point in their lives. It is a normal part of the human experience. Embracing our individuality and finding like-minded individuals who appreciate and accept us for who we are can help combat this gremlin. It is also crucial to practice self-compassion and remind ourselves that we are worthy of love and belonging, regardless of whether or not we fit into societal norms.
Last month, I made the decision not to meet with a PR because I believed they would not be interested in collaborating further with me. At age 52 years, the lingering impact of not feeling worthy is still present.
Keep climbing and never give up.
My Bullying And Not Feeling Good Enough History
I was born in Australia, a country known for its diverse culture and breathtaking landscapes. My parents, on the other hand, were Italian immigrants who had left their homeland in search of a better life. They settled in a small town, nestled amidst vast farmlands, where they toiled day and night to make ends meet. Growing up, I witnessed the arduousness of farm life firsthand, as my parents dedicated themselves to the cultivation of crops and the care of livestock. The long hours under the scorching sun and the physical demands of the job were no easy feat. However, their unwavering determination and resilience inspired me to embrace the values of hard work and perseverance. Despite the challenges they faced, my parents instilled in me a deep appreciation for both my Italian heritage and the opportunities that Australia offered.
My bullying history happens still today.
![Gracie Opulanza London Fashion week 2014](https://i0.wp.com/gracieopulanza.com/wp-content/uploads/2021/03/Gracie-Opulanza-London-Fashion-week-2014-.jpg?resize=750%2C563&ssl=1)
Me in 2014 London Fashion week
Bankruptcy
When the devastating floodwaters rushed through my parents’ farm, everything was lost. It was a catastrophic event that left them with no choice but to declare bankruptcy. In the midst of this chaos, I came into the world, a symbol of hope amidst the wreckage. With the farm in ruins and their dreams shattered, my parents faced immense challenges and uncertainty. They had to pick up the pieces and start afresh, rebuilding their lives from scratch. It was a daunting task, filled with sleepless nights and endless toil. But through their resilience and determination, they never gave up. They found new opportunities and learned valuable lessons along the way. Their story is a testament to the human spirit’s ability to overcome adversity and find strength in the face of despair. Today, I stand as a reminder of their unwavering perseverance and the indomitable spirit that resides within us all.
That is the farm I was born into and my parents went bankrupt. We sold it thirty years ago for a great amount of money. No family member to date lives in any poverty, in fact, the very opposite.
The Trauma Of Poverty
As the fourth child in my family, I was deeply affected by the trauma of having no money and experiencing loss. The weight of these hardships bore down on me, causing a whirlwind of emotions and leaving me feeling lost and confused. The constant struggle to make ends meet created a sense of instability within our household, with financial worries hanging over our heads like a dark cloud. Witnessing my parents’ desperation to provide for us while grappling with their own grief was a heavy burden to bear. The impact of these circumstances was far-reaching, affecting not only my immediate family but also my sense of self-worth and confidence. In the face of adversity, I learned to adapt and find strength within myself, but the scars of those difficult times still linger, reminding me of the resilience required to overcome such challenges.
I was often called a pathetic child.
Immigrant Child Bullied
School can be a challenging environment for many children, and unfortunately, I was no exception. For what seemed like an eternity, I endured relentless bullying due to my Italian heritage. The torment was unrelenting, with each day feeling like a never-ending battle. It was perplexing to me how my background could be the catalyst for such cruelty. The burstiness of insults and taunts left me feeling isolated and helpless. However, I refused to let these experiences define me. Instead, I used them as fuel to rise above the negativity and prove that my heritage was something to be proud of. It was a long and arduous journey, but I eventually found solace in my own self-acceptance. Today, I stand tall, embracing my Italian roots and using my experiences to advocate for inclusivity and empathy in schools.
Wearing Pre-loved Clothes
As a child, I had a penchant for hand-me-down clothes. They were a hodgepodge of styles and colors, a mishmash of different eras and trends. Despite their eclectic nature, I found solace in their uniqueness, embracing the stories they held within their threads. Alongside my unconventional fashion choices, I developed a taste for Italian food. The flavors of rich tomato sauces and fragrant herbs danced on my palate, transporting me to the bustling streets of Rome or the charming alleys of Florence. Despite my love for fashion and food, I was often regarded as a very quiet child. While other kids filled the air with boisterous laughter and exuberant chatter, I preferred to observe the world around me, quietly absorbing the sights and sounds that surrounded me. It was through this contemplative nature that I discovered the beauty in the subtleties of life, finding joy in the smallest of moments.
My wardrobe is all pre-loved and full of vintage clothing.
No School Friends
aged eleven years old, I found myself in a peculiar situation – I had no friends. It was a lonely and isolating experience, leaving me feeling disheartened and disconnected from the world around me. Each day seemed to stretch on endlessly, filled with a longing for companionship that went unanswered. I yearned for the laughter and camaraderie that comes with having a close-knit group of friends. The absence of these connections left a void in my life, one that seemed impossible to fill. However, as time passed, I began to reflect on the reasons behind my lack of social connections. I realized that perhaps it was not a matter of not having friends, but rather not putting myself out there and actively seeking friendships. With this newfound insight, I embarked on a journey of self-discovery and personal growth, determined to change my circumstances and forge meaningful connections with others.
Eagles Soar Alone
Throughout my life, I have encountered numerous instances of bullying that have shaped my journey towards achieving success. These experiences have compelled me to navigate the treacherous path of self-reliance, relying solely on my own determination and resilience to overcome the obstacles that stood in my way. The relentless taunts and hurtful words that were hurled at me served as fuel for my desire to prove myself and rise above the negativity that surrounded me. It was through these challenging circumstances that I discovered the power within myself to persevere and excel. Despite the emotional turmoil that accompanied the bullying, I channeled my energy into honing my skills, dedicating countless hours to self-improvement and personal growth. This arduous journey has not been without its setbacks, but it has instilled in me a profound sense of strength and tenacity. As I continue to forge my own path towards success, I am grateful for the lessons learned from my experiences with bullying, as they have shaped me into the resilient individual I am today.
Don’t compare yourself to others, especially social media views.
Friends and family Are Your Worst Enemy
When it comes to self-worth, friends and family can sometimes be your worst enemy. They have the power to influence how you see yourself, and their words and actions can either uplift you or bring you down. It’s important to recognize that their opinions should not define your value as a person. While it can be difficult to ignore the negative comments or criticisms, it’s crucial to remember that your self-worth is not determined by others. You are the only one who truly knows your worth and should never let anyone else’s opinions hold you back. Surround yourself with people who support and uplift you, and remember that you are deserving of love and respect, regardless of what others may say. It’s easier said than done, but taking control of your own self-worth is essential for living a fulfilling and happy life.
Reprogramming
Reprogramming is a powerful process that involves altering the deeply ingrained beliefs we hold about ourselves and others. It is a journey of self-discovery and transformation, where we challenge the not self-worth of others and rewrite our own belief system. By examining the limiting beliefs that have held us back, we can begin to uncover the true potential that lies within us. This process requires courage and perseverance, as we confront the fears and insecurities that have shaped our mindset for so long. It is not an easy task, but the rewards are immeasurable. Through reprogramming, we can break free from the chains of self-doubt and embrace a new perspective on our worth and capabilities. By changing our beliefs, we open ourselves up to a world of possibilities and unlock our fullest potential. So, let us embark on this transformative journey of reprogramming, where we rewrite the narrative of our lives and create a future filled with self-worth and fulfillment. I work with the best car brands in the world.
I Am Worth It
When it comes to working with luxury brands, it is important to constantly remind oneself of their recognition and appreciation of our self worth. These esteemed brands choose to collaborate with us because they see our unique value and the expertise we bring to the table. Their decision to partner with us is a testament to our exceptional abilities and the impact we have on their brand image. The fact that they are willing to invest in our talents and skills speaks volumes about the caliber of work we deliver. It is crucial to maintain this mindset in order to project confidence and professionalism in our interactions with these brands. By consistently reminding ourselves of the value we bring to the table, we are able to establish a solid foundation for a successful and long-lasting collaboration.
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