This especially hits home with me, since I've gotten trophies and awards for pretty much anything I've ever done (including in college). Until I hit the 'real world' and realized that even though I was talented and had a lot going for me, it didn't matter: there are a million people in the same boat.

My most recent realization, though, is that most people my age don't want to work too hard. We are used to getting the accolades with the default level of effort, so why bother?

I'm special though, I work hard. Seriously I'm special. TELL ME I'M SPECIAL.