Are you dull?

You're tired. You're worn out. You look like a disheveled mess, and you look over to see a seemingly untouched person, with nothing showing any sign of messiness. You've been working your butt off, but the clean person gets all the credit in pictures, presentations, etc., because they look nicer for publicity. You're upset, because you know they've done none of the work to finish off the project, and they're stealing your credit. You worked hard. You put in the time. You put in the effort. You're upset. I get it. I totally get it. I've been there, probably too many times in my short 17 years of living. Here's the deal, though. Anyone of worth in your industry will know who does all the work-- the sloppy, tired, worn-out worker, not the perfect "worker." I found this picture today that perfectly describes this problem:

Think about this. The people whose opinions really matter will be smart enough to realize where the hard work and skill is actually coming from. The ones recognizing the perfect Barbie doll next to you-- their opinions don't matter, honestly. They're not the ones who are going to help you in your industry. They won't give you promotions. They won't mentor you. They won't help you continue succeeding. So focus on what really matters-- working hard and making strides in your work, regardless of the recognition, or lack thereof in this case, and you'll earn your position. Make sure you consider the opinions of authorities, not your peers or below--then you really will succeed and earn the good kind of recognition--the noteworthy recognition. And besides, the pretty, clean ones won't stay sharp forever. Sharp pencils break faster, because they haven't gone through all the work yet. Be proud of yourself, you dull pencil, you. Be proud and work hard. It'll pay off. Love, Noelle.